Homegrown Heroes Shine Bright for Regional Football Powerhouses After an Eye-Opening Week 5

Homegrown Heroes Shine Bright for Regional Football Powerhouses After an Eye-Opening Week 5

By David Brent Martin

The Columbus and Phenix City region has long been recognized as a hotbed for elite football talent. As the 2024 college football season progresses, numerous homegrown athletes from these communities are making significant impacts at some of the most prestigious football programs in the Southeast. From powerhouse programs like Alabama and Georgia to emerging contenders like Auburn and Troy, these players are representing their hometowns with distinction. Here’s a closer look at the standout performers continuing to make waves on the collegiate stage.

Alabama Crimson Tide

#16 Red Morgan (Safety) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Freshman
A highly regarded 4-star recruit, Red Morgan turned down offers from Florida State to join Alabama’s famed defense. Renowned for his explosive hits and reliable tackling, the 6-foot, 175-pound freshman is stepping into the spotlight following the departure of Caleb Downs. In Week 1, Morgan recorded his first tackle during Alabama’s dominant shutout against Western Kentucky. He continued to build momentum in Week 3, tallying three tackles in a convincing win over Wisconsin. Morgan's contributions were critical in the Tide's thrilling 41-34 upset victory over top-ranked Georgia in Week 4. However, in Week 5’s surprising loss to Vanderbilt, he added just one assisted tackle as the defense struggled to contain the Commodores.

#57 Elijah Pritchett (Offensive Lineman) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Redshirt Sophomore
At 6'6" and 327 pounds, Elijah Pritchett has emerged as a pivotal piece of Alabama’s offensive line. Gaining experience over 15 games, Pritchett stepped in during Week 4 against Georgia, helping to stabilize the line and allowing quarterback Jalen Milroe to rack up nearly 500 yards of offense. In Week 5, though, the Tide fell to Vanderbilt, 40-35, with Pritchett’s missed block contributing to a critical sack and fumble. His continued development will be crucial as Alabama looks to regain momentum.

Georgia Bulldogs

#13 Mykel Williams (Defensive End) – Columbus, Ga. (Hardaway High School) – Junior
A dominant pass rusher with NFL potential, Mykel Williams has been a cornerstone of Georgia’s defense since helping the Bulldogs capture the 2022 National Championship. After suffering an ankle injury in Week 1, Williams was sorely missed during Georgia’s 41-34 upset loss to Alabama in Week 4. His return in Week 5 helped the Bulldogs secure a 31-13 win over Auburn, where Williams recorded one solo tackle. His presence on the field is vital to Georgia’s success this season.

Auburn Tigers

#8 Cam Coleman (Receiver) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Freshman
Cam Coleman, a 5-star recruit, has quickly become a spark plug for Auburn’s offense. After an MVP performance in Auburn’s A-Day game, Coleman made an impressive debut, catching two passes for 62 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. He followed that with 82 receiving yards in Week 4, though the Tigers fell to Oklahoma. In Week 5’s 31-13 loss to Georgia, Coleman was held without a catch, sparking speculation about his usage in Auburn’s offense.

Troy Trojans

#0 Gerald Green (Running Back) – Columbus, Ga. (East Coweta High School) – Senior
After transferring from East Carolina and Georgia Southern, Gerald Green is carving out a role in Troy’s backfield. Despite a solid start in Week 1, his production has slowed, logging just 5 yards on 3 carries in Troy’s Week 5 loss to Texas State. Green remains part of Troy’s deep running back rotation, and the Trojans will need him to regain his early-season form.

#83 D.J. Epps (Receiver) – Seale, Ala. (Russell County High School) – Sophomore
Though D.J. Epps has yet to record a reception this season, he has shown versatility on special teams, contributing a tackle in Week 3 against Iowa. His continued development could see him earn more playing time as the season wears on.

Georgia State University

#8 Ja’Cyais Credle (Receiver) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Redshirt Senior
Standing at 6'4", Ja’Cyais Credle brings height and experience to Georgia State’s receiving corps. He recorded catches in the Panthers’ Week 1 loss to Georgia Tech and their upset win over Vanderbilt. Credle’s ability to step up in crucial moments will be essential for Georgia State's postseason push.

#46 Ian Mathews (Defensive End) – Columbus, Ga. (St. Ann-Pacelli Catholic) – Junior
A transfer from Hutchinson Community College, Ian Mathews has started to make an impact on Georgia State’s defense. With a tackle in both Week 3 and Week 4, Mathews is beginning to show his potential as a playmaker for the Panthers.

Alabama State University

#1 Desheen Jackson (Safety) – Columbus, Ga. (Carver High School) – Junior
A transfer from Troy and Hutchinson Community College, Desheen Jackson has yet to see significant playing time for Alabama State, but his previous performances at Hutchinson indicate he could become a defensive leader for the Hornets as the season progresses.

Valdosta State University

Ameir Bellamy (Offensive Lineman) – Phenix City, Ala. (Central High School) – Redshirt Freshman
After redshirting in 2023, Ameir Bellamy is ready to step up for Valdosta State’s offensive line. His versatility and experience at fullback could prove invaluable as the Blazers navigate their 2024 campaign.

These homegrown athletes continue to demonstrate the strength of the Columbus-Phenix City region's football tradition. Each player carries with them the pride of their hometowns as they strive for success on the collegiate gridiron.