Homegrown Heroes Continue to Rise Up for Regional Football Powerhouses After Week 6

By David Brent Martin

The Columbus and Phenix City region remains a proven cradle of elite football talent, with numerous athletes from these communities leaving their mark on some of the most prestigious college programs in the Southeast. As the 2024 season advances, these homegrown players continue to excel at powerhouse schools such as Alabama and Georgia, while others work tirelessly to earn their opportunity to shine at emerging programs like Auburn, Troy and beyond.

Here’s a look at some of the region’s standout performers, each carrying the pride of their hometown onto the collegiate stage.

Alabama Crimson Tide

#16 Red Morgan (Safety) – Phenix City (Central High School) – Freshman
A highly regarded 4-star recruit, Red Morgan chose Alabama over Florida State, bringing his aggressive style to the Tide’s defense. After logging his first tackle in a Week 1 shutout against Western Kentucky, Morgan has been steadily earning his place, with notable performances like his three-tackle game in Week 3 versus Wisconsin. His impact was felt during Alabama's thrilling Week 4 victory over top-ranked Georgia, though recent weeks have seen his playing time fluctuate, including a quieter Week 6 in the win over South Carolina.

#57 Elijah Pritchett (Offensive Lineman) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Redshirt Sophomore
At 6'6" and 327 pounds, Elijah Pritchett has become a key figure on Alabama’s offensive line. After gaining valuable experience last season, Pritchett’s presence helped stabilize the line in critical moments, particularly in Week 4 against Georgia, where the Tide’s offense flourished. Although not without setbacks, including a costly missed block in Week 5, Pritchett's solid performance in Week 6 helped Alabama reclaim momentum against South Carolina.

#88 Isaia Faga (Defensive Lineman) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Freshman
A promising 4-star recruit from Central High, Isaia Faga brings power and speed to Alabama’s defensive line. Though limited in playing time so far, Faga’s development will be one to watch as the season progresses.

Georgia Bulldogs

#13 Mykel Williams (Defensive End) – Columbus, Ga. (Hardaway High School) – Junior
A dominant force on Georgia’s defensive front, Mykel Williams has been a cornerstone since the Bulldogs’ 2022 national championship run. After missing Week 4 due to injury, Williams returned in Week 5 to help Georgia bounce back with a win over Auburn. Though his Week 6 performance against Mississippi State saw him held in check statistically, his presence on the field remains a vital part of Georgia’s success.

#28 Walter Blanchard (Receiver) – Columbus, Ga. (Brookstone School) – Redshirt Freshman
Despite being listed as a fourth-string Y-receiver, Walter Blanchard is staying ready for his chance to contribute. His time may come as Georgia navigates its deep receiving corps.

Auburn Tigers

#8 Cam Coleman (Receiver) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Freshman
A dynamic 5-star recruit, Cam Coleman has shown flashes of brilliance for Auburn’s offense, including an impressive debut in Week 1. While his impact has been inconsistent, Coleman remains a key offensive weapon as the Tigers seek to maximize his potential.

#45 Darron Reed Jr. (Defensive Lineman) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Freshman
Though still adjusting to the collegiate level, Darron Reed Jr. brings high potential to Auburn’s defensive line. His contributions are expected to grow as he acclimates to SEC competition.

#89 Dylan Gentry (Receiver) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Freshman
With impressive high school numbers, Dylan Gentry is working hard to break into Auburn’s receiving rotation. Though yet to make a catch, his determination and work ethic suggest he will be one to watch.

Troy Trojans

#0 Gerald Green (Running Back) – Columbus, Ga. (East Coweta High School) – Senior
Gerald Green, a transfer making his mark at Troy, started the season strong before encountering challenges. With a respectable six carries in Week 6, Green remains part of Troy’s rotation, and his experience will be crucial in the weeks ahead.

#83 D.J. Epps (Receiver) – Seale, Ala. (Russell County High School) – Sophomore
While D.J. Epps has yet to record a reception this season, his versatility on special teams, including a tackle in Week 3, highlights his value to the Trojans as he continues to develop.

Georgia State University

#8 Ja’Cyais Credle (Receiver) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Senior
Standing at 6'4", Ja’Cyais Credle has been a consistent contributor to Georgia State’s offense. With catches in both a loss to Georgia Tech and an upset over Vanderbilt, Credle remains a reliable target for the Panthers.

#46 Ian Mathews (Defensive End) – Columbus, Ga. (St. Ann-Pacelli Catholic) – Junior
Ian Mathews has started to make an impact for Georgia State, recording tackles in key moments during Weeks 3 and 4. His presence on the defensive line continues to grow as he earns more playing time.

Alabama State University

#1 Desheen Jackson (Safety) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Junior
A transfer from Hutchinson Community College, Desheen Jackson is waiting for his opportunity to shine at Alabama State. His defensive prowess suggests he could become a key figure for the Hornets as the season unfolds.

Valdosta State University

Ameir Bellamy (Offensive Lineman) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Redshirt Freshman
Ameir Bellamy is poised to step up on Valdosta State’s offensive line. His versatility, including experience at fullback, offers the Blazers a unique asset as they navigate the season.

These athletes from the Columbus-Phenix City area continue to exemplify the football excellence that the region is known for, each carrying the legacy of their hometowns as they strive for collegiate success.