Pigskin Preview: Stacked South Columbus squad ready to take next step

August 12, 2025

Colton Emswiler,

South Columbus Football1 — (Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)

TABOR CITY, N.C. (WWAY) — One of the most improved football teams in 2024, South Columbus is gearing up for what could be a special season.

The Stallions went 8-3 last year, which matched their win total from the previous three years combined. They also have 14 starters back from last season, eight of them on defense alone.

Head Coach Russell Dove believes there’s several areas his team will continue to improve in.

(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)

“I think our defense will be even better this year,” Dove said. “Also, I think our ability to throw the ball. Last year, we surprised some people throwing the ball a little more than what we do. This year, we got some kids, some good receivers and good wings that can catch the ball. Our quarterback’s arm is a lot better and stuff like that. But to be able to do those things, that front’s got to take care of business. Everything starts up front with out center and offensive line. Those guys have been working hard and we love those guys.”

South Columbus will have 17 seniors on their roster. After struggling earlier in their high school careers, the group is poised to make sure their newfound success is here to stay.

(Photo: Colton Emswiler/WWAY)

“It was a good feeling,” senior lineman Jakai Johnson said. “The year before that, we had a bunch of sophomores, freshmen and juniors on the varsity. We didn’t have many seniors. A successful season is being here for your team, practicing hard, not taking a play off. Then when it comes to the game, it’ll be a lot easier.”

Their improvement happened seemingly overnight and can be attributed to one key aspect.

“Leadership is a lot bigger this year,” senior running back and linebacker Briar Johnson said. “Everybody going up a grade, everybody’s a lot more comfortable with their teammates. We’ve built a lot of relationships over the summer. Some of us guys have been hanging out playing baseball, doing random stuff around the beach or whatever. Our leadership and relationships have definitely grown. I feel like that’s a big upcoming from last year.”