Midlands Standouts Shine in High School Football All-Star Games, Future Gamecocks Lead the Way
December 21, 2024 – Spartanburg and Myrtle Beach, SC – A pair of Midlands football standouts earned MVP honors, while several future South Carolina Gamecocks made their mark in the high school football all-star games on Saturday.
Irmo’s AJ Brand Earns Offensive MVP at Shrine Bowl
In Spartanburg, Irmo quarterback AJ Brand was named the offensive MVP for the South Carolina squad in the Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas, despite a 49-24 loss to North Carolina at Spartanburg High School. The Virginia Tech signee was 6 of 12 passing for 62 yards and a touchdown, and added 26 rushing yards on seven carries. Brand’s performance helped keep South Carolina competitive throughout the game, despite the final score.
Aaron Griffin Shines in Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl
Meanwhile, in Myrtle Beach, Aaron Griffin from River Bluff High School stood out in the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl at Doug Shaw Memorial Stadium. Griffin, who will play at East Carolina, was named the offensive MVP for the South team in a 24-7 loss to the North squad. Griffin finished the game with six receptions for 123 yards and scored the South’s lone touchdown.
Will Wilson Named 2024 Mr. Football
At halftime of the Touchstone Energy Bowl, Will Wilson, the quarterback from Richland Northeast and N.C. State signee, was honored as the 2024 Mr. Football for South Carolina. Wilson, a standout performer for the Raiders, was celebrated for his consistent excellence throughout his high school career.
Future Gamecocks Impress at Shrine Bowl
Several future South Carolina Gamecocks had notable performances at the Shrine Bowl, including Donovan Darden (North Carolina), who returned an interception for a 52-yard touchdown. Darden, a top performer during the week of practice, showcased his playmaking ability, helping North Carolina to a dominant victory.
Other USC signees who contributed to the South Carolina squad included Jaquel Holman of Blackville-Hilda, who recorded nine tackles. Holman, who played both running back and linebacker in high school, will be transitioning to defense for the Gamecocks. Anthony Addison of Sumter had eight tackles and a pass break-up, while Demarcus Leach of Abbeville registered three tackles. Jaquavious Dodd of Eastside contributed with two tackles and a quarterback hurry.
Local Stars Shine Across the Board
In addition to Griffin and Brand, several Midlands-area athletes impressed at both games. Stephen Collier, a receiver from River Bluff and East Carolina signee, hauled in six catches for 113 yards and two touchdowns in the Shrine Bowl. Tydarion Grier from Fairfield Central led the South team in rushing with 58 yards. Finley Polk, the quarterback from Northwestern, was the top passer for the South squad, completing 9 of 14 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns.
Defensive Standouts
On defense, Cam’Rich Smith from Spartanburg was named the South Carolina defensive MVP in the Shrine Bowl for his standout performance. Meanwhile, Jonathan Williams of North Carolina led his team with three touchdown runs, showcasing the offensive firepower that helped his team dominate.
As the all-star games wrapped up, it was clear that the future of South Carolina football is in good hands, with several Gamecock signees and Midlands-area athletes earning recognition for their stellar performances.
For more details on the Shrine Bowl and Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Bowl, visit The State.
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