HSRZ Preview: Ninety Six Wildcats

NINETY-SIX, S.C. (WSPA) – With high school football just around the corner, the Ninety-Six Wildcats are previewed ahead of the 2024 season which kicks off on August 23.

Ninety-Six Wildcats:

2023 record: 8-3, most wins since 2018

Head Coach: Matthew Bennett, 2nd season

Key Returners:

Carver Davis (QB), Zay King (RB), Gabe Hackett (RB/LB), Kayden Payne (RB/LB), Kayden Conway (WR/DB), Noah Gibert (TE/LB), Nathan McCary (OL/DL)

Key Losses:

Braden Mitchell (QB)

Preview:

Fourteen starters from an eight win team return, including region player of the year Zay King at running back who is coming off a 1,200 yard rushing season. King is part of a stable that includes Gabe Hackett and Kayden Payne. The Wildcats pistol wing attack has Kayden Conway back at wide receiver and Noah Gibert at tight end as well as four returning offensive line starters. Quarterback Carver Davis also comes back after starting the first half of last season, and showing growth entering his junior year.

Davis is also a vital part of the defense at corner along with Conway, while Hackett, Payne and Gibert return at linebacker and Nathan McCary is a force on the defensive line.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.