The Lamar County Trojans opened the 2025 football season in style on August 15 at Trojan Field, knocking off the visiting Telfair County Trojans 37–12.
Head Coach Travis Ellington said he was pleased with how his team came out at the beginning of the game. “It was good to get the season started,” Ellington said. “I felt pretty good the first half. I thought the offense and defense were firing pretty good. We had some bright points on special teams at times but still have some things we need to get correct before moving forward.”
Lamar County’s offense only ran 37 plays, but they made them count, totaling 263 yards, 128 passing and 135 on the ground. Quarterback Ross Hamrick completed seven of nine passes for 128 yards and two touchdowns. Kaden Carter caught two passes for 69 yards and a score. Haden Dickerson added another reception for a touchdown.
Kenyae Barnes had four carries for 76 yards and a touchdown, while Hamrick added 51 yards rushing on 11 carries. Lamar County also converted every PAT and two-point attempt on the night.
While the Trojans built a comfortable lead, Ellington noted that the third quarter left room for improvement.
“We didn’t play our best in the third quarter and had to have a couple of defensive stands to keep them from scoring on us,” he added. Defensively, the Trojans forced four turnovers—one for a touchdown. This kept Telfair at a distance in the second half.
“I am happy for our team for getting a win in our home season opener. We still have several areas to improve in, but I’m excited about our team’s drive and work ethic. We have some great leadership on our team, and they are working hard to improve each and every day.”
Goin’ to Jackson
Now, coming off this week’s bye week, the Trojans will make the short trip up Highway 36 for a rivalry game against Jackson.
The Red Devils are hoping to break a five-game losing streak to Lamar County. Jackson is 1-1 so far this season. In week one, Jackson defeated Hardaway 38-0. Last week, Mary Persons won over Jackson 23-10 in Forsyth.
After working hard on fundamentals during the bye week, Ellington added, “We need all our fans there to support us as we take on Jackson.”
Players of the Game
- Offense— Ross Hamrick; Senior
- Defense— Kaden Carter; Senior
- Special Teams— Jermaine Doctor; Senior
- Defensive Scout Team— Trenton Davis; Senior
- Offensive Scout Team— Van Padgett; Junior
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.
