Realignment Breakdown: Who’s New In Region III-3A
<em>Realignment will affect nearly every region in the Upstate with teams moving into and out of classifications and regions. Here’s our second in a series of looks at some of the top players moving into new regions, focusing on Region III-3A.</em>
The entire Upstate was affected by 3A realignment, with changes in regions I through IV. Region III has almost a completely new look, with only Chapman and Broome remaining from the previous region makeup. Carolina, Blue Ridge, and Travelers Rest will all move in.
Carolina had a tough go of it in a winless 2021 season, but the Trojans do have some talent. Sophomore <strong>Machi Sampson</strong> had 35 tackles and four tackles for loss, along with 1.5 sacks, an interception and two fumble recoveries. Offensively, freshman <strong>Jasean Bowens</strong> threw for more than 500 yards in his six games of action, while sophomore <strong>Naja Deck</strong> averaged 4.1 yards per carry and scored three touchdowns.
Blue Ridge's has a ton of talent back from last year's playoff team, with All-Region ATH <strong>Tucker Massey</strong> seeing time at QB, WR, DB, and KR. He had 365 receiving yards and five touchdowns offensively, to go with 53.5 tackles, four pass break-ups, four interceptions, two fumble recoveries, and 2TFL. He'll play on both sides of the ball for the Tigers. <strong>Hayden Brown</strong> also made the All-Region squad, leading the team in tackles and defensive production points, as well as kickoff return yards. All-Region OL <strong>Taylor Wooten</strong>, <strong>Adam Congreve</strong>, and <strong>Isaiah Chapman</strong> lead a talented group up front.
Travelers Rest moves down from the 4A ranks, and the Devildogs not only have a new home, but a new leader in longtime Dorman OL/Assistant Head Coach Michael Lancaster. Travelers Rest will look to two-year QB starter <strong>Caleb Mills</strong>, a solid player who directs the offense well and takes care of the ball. <strong>Kaleb Greene</strong> will help lead the defense, bringing a high motor and a ton of strength at the DE position. And Lancaster has high expectations for <strong>Drayton Ward</strong>, who was lost to a preseason injury last season.
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