BLUFFTON, S.C. () — The Beaufort Eagles football team looks to return to the form of the 2022 season when they were crowned state champions.

The positive aspect for the Eagles is that they reached the playoffs last year. This season, they welcome back around 25 seniors, which head coach Bryce Lybrand remarked is the largest class he has had during his time at Beaufort.

On the downside, their overall record last year stood at 2-9 and 1-4 within the region. They also face the challenge of replacing Samari Walker, their quarterback for the last three seasons.

“It’s always significant when you lose a quarterback,” Coach Lybrand stated. “However, we’ve got five offensive linemen returning. So we’re optimistic about that. Being able to protect our new quarterback, Anthony Kahler, a bit and providing them with plays they can manage.”

“We’re hoping to have a great run this year,” senior middle linebacker James Thomas said. “It starts with our region play and doing well in our region to hopefully get a high seed. We don’t want to travel. Hartsville was a pretty long trip last year. We’re hoping to stay in Beaufort and have a high seed.”

Beaufort opens the season against Fort Dorchester at home. The game kicks off Aug. 22 at 7:30 p.m.