Despite being forced into several adjustments this offseason, Greer football believes it has what it takes to make noise this year in Class 4-A.
The Jackets are trying to get over the “round two” hump that’s plagued them for two years in a row.
In both 2023 and 2024, Greer came up short in the second round of the playoffs. In 2023, it was a heartbreaking 24-21 loss to Greenville. Last year, it was a throttling at the hands of eventual upper-state finalist South Pointe.
“We’ve got to fill a couple of holes in a few spots, specifically the offensive line,” said Greer head coach Will Young. “But if we want to go further this year, we’ve got to get meaner. We’ve got to get tougher. We’ve got to get nastier. That goes for the whole team.”
Greer will likely start junior quarterback Dawson Fowler under center this season. Fowler came in late last season vs. South Pointe in the playoffs and looked impressive, said Young.
Now, it’s his turn to take the reins.
“It’s been great so far,” said Fowler. “My teammates are great. O-line’s blocking great, receivers are making plays when I need them to, and the coaches are helping me out a lot. Everything’s running really smoothly so far.”
The Jackets, per usual, will be stout in the trenches. Greer returns several starting defensive linemen, including seniors Paden Armstrong and Aiden Jones. Jones is returning from an ACL injury. Both are expected to be among the top performers in the state at their respective positions.
“Right now, we’re just hoping to get Aiden back as soon as possible,” said Young. “We’re a little short on bodies on the D-line right now, but should be good once we get everyone healthy.”
On the offensive line, keep an eye out for Dallas Williams, though it may be hard to miss him. Williams stands at a massive 6-foot-3, 278 pounds. He will anchor the Jacket O-line at the tackle position.
“Dallas is one hell of an offensive lineman,” said Young. “He’s well put together and has incredible movement with his feet. We’ll have Nathan Huff returning too on the O-line, so we should be strong up front.”
Both Williams and Huff are returning all-region players.
“I feel like I know my responsibility this year,” said Williams. “I’ve got to be a leader. I’m a senior now.”
Seniors Chase Free at safety and Sammy White at linebacker are also primed for big seasons for Greer. Both played the best football of their career last season and are looking to limit opponents at the second and third levels.
Returning for a second season in a very winnable 4-A Region 2, Greer will be optimistic about its chances of making new strides in 2025. But it will all have to come together at the right time, says Young.
“I think it’s important for these guys not to forget how much this football team means to this community,” said Young. “That means you’ve got to go out every single day and give 100 percent because the people here are behind you.
“We like what we’ve got this year and think we can make Greer proud.”
For more coverage of Greer-area sports, follow @GreerNewsSports on X.
