The Lamar County Trojans kicked off their 2024 playoff campaign with a 51-10 victory at Trojan Field on Friday, November 16. After the game, Coach Travis Ellington praised his squad for their performance against the Dade County Wolverines, but he also noted areas that needed improvement.
“I told our team at halftime that we cannot have non-hustle penalties like false starts and post-play penalties,” Ellington said. “We came back out after halftime and played much better. I’m really proud of our players and excited to play in the second round against a strong Northeast team.”
Game Stats
| Lamar County | Dade County |
| 476 total yards | 221 total yards |
| 0 passing yards | 133 passing yards |
| 476 rushing yards | 88 rushing yards |
Top Offensive Performers
The Trojans racked up 476 total yards, all of them on the ground. Lamar County’s rushing attack was led by Caleb Laster, who gained 151 yards on six carries, including a touchdown. Kaden Carter rushed for 138 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries. Kenyae Barnes had six carries for 70 yards and a touchdown. JahNizae Few earned 65 yards on 9 carries with a touchdown. Markiviyon Dugger had one carry for a 33-yard touchdown.
Top Defensive Performers
The Lamar County defense played exceptionally well, scoring on a safety and meeting one of the weekly defensive goals. They held Dade County to 221 yards, including 88 rushing and 133 passing. Defensive standouts included Bryson Johnson, Kaden Carter, AJ Vereen, Jayden Hillman, and Kenyon Holloway. See their stats below:
- Bryson Johnson: 7 tackles, 3 assists, 2 tackles for loss (TFL), 1 quarterback hurry, and 2 sacks
- Kaden Carter: 7 tackles, 1 pass breakup, and 1 sack
- AJ Vereen: 8 tackles, 3 assists, and 1 forced fumble
- Jayden Hillman: 6 tackles, 2 assists, 1 TFL, and 1 sack
- Kenyon Holloway: 4 tackles, 2 assists, and 1 TFL
Special Teams
On special teams, Markiviyon Dugger returned a kickoff for a touchdown. Coach Travis Ellington complimented RJ Starks and Jermaine Doctor for great kickoff coverage throughout the contest.
Players of the Game
- Offense: Caleb Laster
- Defense: Bryson Johnson
- Special Teams: RJ Starks
Second Round
The Trojans will face the Northeast Raiders in Macon in the sweet 16 round. The Raiders are 9-2 on the season after defeating the Swainsboro Tigers 46-7 in the opening round. The Raiders’ record includes two losses to Peach County and Dublin in the regular season.
Some fans have noted that this upcoming away playoff game in Macon is one of the nearest in proximity to home they can recall. Recognizing the opportunity for fans to travel and show their support, Coach Ellington is encouraging Trojan Nation to make the trip and bring the Trojan Thunder to Bibb County.
“Please, everyone come out and support us down in Macon next week,” Ellington urged.
The winner of the Lamar-Northeast game will advance to the Elite 8 and play either Jeff Davis or Fannin County.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
