HBCU blueblood ready to go under charismatic new head coach

The 2024 HBCU football season is on the horizon, and South Carolina State University is ready for a comeback under new head coach Chennis Berry. Known for his winning ways, Berry aims to lead the Bulldogs back to the top of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).

Chennis Berry’s Coaching Journey

Chennis Berry’s path through college football showcases his coaching talent, moving from Division I to Division II and back. Before joining South Carolina State, he led another South Carolina HBCU — Benedict College — to a 27-7 record and two Division II playoff appearances.

“It was a great ride,” Berry reflects. “We had a great run there at Benedict College, man, we were able to do some amazing things. But now it’s time to write a new story.”

Berry has a lot of experience in HBCU college football, including at the FCS level.

“So, 10 years in the MEAC and seven years in the SWAC. Football is football. Cover two is the same cover two, whether it’s Division II, Division I, or the NFL. Inside zone is the same inside zone. Ball is ball,” Berry explains.

Players to Watch

Berry’s leadership will highlight several key Bulldogs this season:

• Nick Taiste (OL) : A standout performer and Preseason FCS All-American.
• Cam Johnson (OL) and Eric Brown, Jr. (OL) : Key to the offensive line’s strength.
• Justin Smith-Brown (WR) : A dynamic playmaker.
• Keshawn Toney (TE) : A versatile asset in both the passing and running game.

On defense, watch out for:

• Aaron Smith (LB) : A leader with strong play-reading skills.
• Jamare Benjamin (DB) : A playmaker in the secondary.
• Einaj Carter (RS) : An explosive return specialist.

MEAC Expectations

The Bulldogs are predicted to finish fourth in the MEAC this season. Despite this ranking, Berry remains optimistic.

“It’s important every day that we just chop wood, carry water, fall in love with the process and get our young men to just love where they’re at,” Berry stated.

Berry is just the fifth head coach for the program in the last 50 years and was handed the reigns by a legend in Buddy Pough. He has a deep respect for the program’s legacy as he looks to move it forward.

“Look at the history of South Carolina State football,” he says. “I said this in my opening press conference: the bluebloods of HBCU football. Because I’m a product of HBCU football, and I’ve been on an HBCU campus since 1991, I’ve always looked at South Carolina State as one of the top programs in all of HBCU.”

Season Outlook

South Carolina State starts their 2024 season on August 31st against Florida A&M at Bragg Memorial Stadium. With Berry’s focus on a strong ground game and disciplined play, the Bulldogs are set to challenge for the MEAC title.

“At the end of the day, we’re going to get 60 minutes. And we’re going to prepare. We don’t worry about what’s going on at the end,” Berry emphasizes. “Every day is about improvement and preparation. We’re committed to getting better and competing at the highest level.”

For the latest on South Carolina State and Chennis Berry and more HBCU football news, stay tuned to HBCU Gameday.

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