Even though it’s only April, Samford Football is already looking to autumn. The team is looking to improve on their season last year in which the Bulldogs finished 11-2 with an FCS Quarterfinal appearance. Not all of the stars from last season will return, but Samford has already made moves in the transfer portal. Furthermore, Michael Hiers, one of the FCS’s top returning players, is back to helm the QB position.
”Last year we were a really close team, and that helped us win close games,” Hiers said.
However, the team’s closeness will likely be tested early, as plenty of new faces are on the way through the transfer portal.
Garrett Morris (LB), DaMonta Witherspoon (RB), Marvion Field (DL), Darrian King (OL), E. Jai Mason (WR), Jaden Mosley (DB), RJ Starkey (WR), Kamron Smith (DB) and Isaiah Watson (CB) have all transferred to Samford in the offseason. Morris was part of a successful Penn program where he made All-Ivy League. Witherspoon played for Murray State, where he ran for 580 yards and a touchdown last year. With three more years of eligibility, he will look to improve his career at Samford. Marvion Field from Elon sits at 6’2, 278 and should see consistent playing time next year on the defensive line.
Samford also has a highly-touted recruiting class incoming for the 2023-24 season. The signees include CJ Douglas (S), Brendan Jenkins (WR), Tyler Douthit (OL), Duncan Johnson (OL), Noah Watts (OL), Will Thorley (P), Jackson Beatty (WR), and Thad Ransier (DE).
Samford will also be adding a new member of the coaching staff Kerry Webb, who will be the squad’s special teams coordinator. Webb was previously an analyst for Virginia Tech. Overall, Samford will combine many new and old faces while trying to build on a phenomenal season. The Bulldogs open play on the road Sept. 9 at Western Carolina.
Staff Writer (Sports)
