Predicting Every Team's 2024 MVP: Region I-A

The new look Region I-A adds former Class AA heavyweight Abbeville into the mix. The race for MVP honors is a full bag of skill position guys, two-way players and one outstanding defensive presence.   Here is a look at the players we think can build on a successful 2023 campaign and give their teams the best hope in 2024.   ABBEVILLE PANTHERS   [player_tooltip player_id='1249802' first='Damarcus' last='Leach'] FS/SS, 2025   The Panthers have been a perennial power on the Class 2A level and that's not going to change in the foreseeable future in Class A. Leach is one of the main reasons why. He's a 6-foot-3, 185 safety that plays aggressively. He's bigger and taller than most receivers but he has no issues in coverage. Leach adds a physical presence to offensive players when they reach the secondary.      CALHOUN FALLS CHARTER BLUE FLASHES   Kendraez Tatum QB, 2026   Tatum is a newcomer to football, but he's been a known basketball player for a while. He improved playing quarterback by learning under coach and cousin Kelly Bryant, the former Clemson signal-caller. He's still developing but is an eager learner. There is no question the athletic ability is there, it's just harnessing it to play quarterback.    DIXIE HORNETS   [player_tooltip player_id='1267345' first='Brandon' last='Nance'] ATH, 2026   Nance is a jitterbug that has a first step that reminds you of some of the smaller successful backs you're seen in the NFL. He hops in and out of holes quickly and has a burst when it's time to go straight ahead. He's going to play corner for the Hornets as well as they look to improve on last season's 4-7 record. Nance is also a tireless worker.    McCORMICK CHIEFS   Markese Stevens ATH, 2025   Stevens is an athletic freak that could factor in at several positions for the Chiefs. He creates with his arm and his legs from the quarterback spot. He has a broad jump of 10.4. He will more than likely be a corner at the college level, and he will look to improve those skills. He's shifty and shows good hips which will benefit him on both sides.    WARE SHOALS HORNETS   [player_tooltip player_id='1267314' first='Elijah' last='Brown'] RB/LB, 2025   Brown will end up doing a little bit of everything for the Hornets. He will see his share of carries on offense but might be best known for being a hard hitter in the middle of the Ware Shoals defense. He has great vision and above average closing speed. He tackles well in the open field and packs a punch for a team that has hopes of improving on a 2-8 record in 2023.    WHITMIRE WOLVERINES   [player_tooltip player_id='1253974' first='Kayshaun' last='Schumpert'] RB, 2025   Schumpert ran for over 1,000 yards and 13 touchdowns in the Wolverines Wing-T attack. He has an uncanny ability to get to the edge and once there he can use his speed to blow past defenders with ease. Whitmire finished 5-6 a season ago and getting the ball in Schumpert's hands at least 200 times this season could have a positive impact.

The new look Region I-A adds former Class AA heavyweight Abbeville into the mix. The race for MVP honors is a full bag of skill position guys, two-way players and one outstanding defensive presence.