Written by: Danny Talbert
Despite some great player performances, it was not enough for LC to get the win. Methodist won 38-27 (Nov. 4). The host Lions led 14-10 after one quarter, led 27-17 at halftime, and 31-27 after three quarters en route to beating the visiting Panthers. This is the final game of the 2023 season.
The offense
Rashod Brockington threw for a season-high three touchdowns with 121 yards on nine completions (30 attempts). Brockington also ran for 24 yards on one rush. Devonte Scott led the WR group with four receptions, 78 yards and one touchdown. Dana Lucas and Jaden Smith also each caught a touchdown. Goldman Butler VI had another phenomenal performance. On 30 rushes, he gained 165 yards, which averaged out to 5.4 yards.
The defense
ToRenz Smith led the team in tackles (12), tackles for a loss (3) and one sack. The defense made three great red zone stops on Saturday (Nov. 4). The first one happened in the second quarter when the Lions were held to a field goal. On their attempt, LC blocked it but was called for running into the kicker. Despite this putting them inside the LC ten, the defense stopped them from scoring a touchdown again. Another happened in the fourth quarter when the Lions offense drove inside the LC ten but was stuffed on fourth and goal on the one yardline. LC had seven tackles for a loss and two sacks.
Special teams
Landon Eaker hit two 35-yard field goals against the Lions. As the season went on, this unit improved to be one of the best kicking teams in the conference. The kickoff team forced a fumble in the first quarter of the game. The defense blocked a field goal attempt but was called for running into the kicker.
What's next
Looking at this year's team, one thing that stands out is how young the squad was. The starting offense was made up of four sophomores, two freshmen, two juniors and three seniors. The starting defense had four freshmen, two sophomores, four juniors and one senior. This is to say that if the staff can retain these players and bring in a solid first recruiting class, this team will be much improved come next season. LC was by far the youngest team in the USA South but they proved that they play with the top teams of the conference. It is always darkest before the dawn.
