BCU

2024 Bethune-Cookman Football Preview: A New Era Dawns

/ J Bell / Leave a comment
Credits: BCU Athletics

It’s game week Wildcat fans and we are more excited than “a single woman sitting in the front row at an Usher concert”. To say that there is a sense of renewed optimism in Daytona Beach headed into the 2024 season is an understatement. Bethune-Cookman enjoyed a successful offseason bringing in a highly rated recruiting class to go along with key returners from last year’s squad. This, along with several other intriguing storylines, has fans believing the Wildcats can turn things around this season.

A Quick Look Back: The 2023 Season

The 2023 season was one of rebuilding and recalibrating for Bethune-Cookman. Despite flashes of promise, the Wildcats struggled to find consistency, particularly on offense. The team averaged just 18.5 points per game, ranking near the bottom of the SWAC in most offensive categories. Defensively, the unit showed promise but often found itself on the field too long due to the offense’s inability to sustain drives.

Nonetheless, the silver lining came in the form of BCU’s competitiveness and emergence of young talent. One possession losses against Alabama State and Jackson State on the road; and Preseason 2nd Team All -SWAC honors for guys like Dearis Thomas attest to these facts.

A Strong 2024 Recruiting Class

Coach Raymond Woodie and his staff had a heck of an offseason and did an amazing job of upgrading the talent on this roster. The Wildcats secured a top-tier 2024 recruiting class, featuring several players who are expected to contribute right away. One late addition to the squad is that of transfer quarterback Micah Bowens from Oklahoma/Charlotte, who brings a dual-threat skillset with him, and has fans excited about the potential for a more dynamic offense. Other notable additions include the likes of Raymond Woodie III, Orin Patu, Dallaz Corbitt, and Trey Mejia-Paster, all of whom add playmaking ability to a defense that showed flashes of potential last year.

Top 5 Storylines for the 2024 Season

1. Quarterback Play: Who Will Take the Helm?

Bethune-Cookman enters the 2024 season with a crowded quarterback room. Luke Sprague, Walt Simmons, Tylik Bethea, and Cam Ransom all return from last year’s squad. Simmons, however, has switched positions to wide receiver, adding versatility to the offense. The big addition to the QB room is Bowens, a transfer who brings experience from Power 5 programs. The battle for the starting job will be one of the most closely watched through the first four games as BCU tune up for SWAC play. We expect that the job is Luke Sprague’s unless someone else can wrestle it away. Sprague is a capable starter who returns for year two in this offense. Sprague’s 2023 season was derailed and ultimately ended prematurely after sustaining a shoulder injury in the Miami game and then re-aggravating the injury in the Southern game. Whoever wins the job will need to improve upon last year’s offensive struggles but there certainly are options at the QB position this time around.

2. More Offensive Woes 🫣 or New Offensive Whoas 🙌?

The Wildcats’ offense was their Achilles’ heel in 2023. Ranking near the bottom of the SWAC in total yards and points per game, improvement is critical if Bethune-Cookman is to compete this year. The good news is that the offensive line returns four starters, providing stability up front. Additionally, the running back room has been bolstered by transfers Courtney Reese (UNLV) and Cross Patton (Nevada); as well as the return of JoJo Bazil from an early season injury which caused him to miss the bulk of the 2023 campaign. If the line can gel and the running game can take off, it could open up opportunities for the rest of the offense. The bad news is last year’s struggles are still fresh in mind so the offense will need to prove early that it can consistently move the ball and score points to eliminate doubt from creeping in.

3. Newcomers on Offense and Defense: Immediate Impact?

In addition to some of the names mentioned earlier, guys like Surafel Seyfu and Cameron Vaughn will look to strengthen the offensive line. Caleb Blake (Missouri State) and Andrew Volmer (Louisiana Monroe) were starters at the Group of Five level before transferring to BCU and both will look to help fortify the defensive secondary.

Wide receiver is perhaps the position group that is most in need of an emerging star. Quite a few guys showed flashes in Fall Camp, including a couple of true freshmen. However, we still don’t have a good handle on who will emerge as the top pass catcher or playmaker among the receivers.

4. 7 Wins in 3 Years: Could This Year’s Team Match That Total?

BCU has won just seven games over the last three seasons. (Ouch!) However, there’s a growing belief that this year’s squad could perhaps match that win total in one season alone. The combination of returning talent, impact transfers, and a full offseason under the leadership of Coach Woodie gives the Wildcats a realistic shot at a winning season. If the team can stay healthy and the newcomers contribute as expected, the Wildcats could be in for a significant turnaround.

5. New Excitement: A Buzz Around the Program

There’s a renewed excitement around Bethune-Cookman football heading into 2024. From the energy of the new recruits to the potential of a retooled offense, fans have reason to be optimistic. Head coach Raymond Woodie Jr. has emphasized a culture of competition and accountability, and it’s clear that this year’s team has bought in. The Wildcats will have opportunities early in the season to prove they’re a different team from last year. After the season opener against South Florida, BCU hosts Mercer in Daytona Stadium. Mercer not only made the FCS playoffs a season ago; they also won a playoff game. If Cookman can find a way to beat Mercer and prove to themselves that they can win games against quality opponents, the boost in confidence could translate into the type of season that fans have been longing for since joining the SWAC. Two weeks after the Mercer contest, BCU face DII Clark Atlanta before entering conference play against Alabama State. It is not realistic to believe BCU could enter SWAC play at 2-2 on the season.

Conclusion

Simply put, the 2024 Wildcats have the potential to exceed expectations and make a statement in the league. While challenges remain, the pieces are in place for a successful campaign. In a few short days, we will get our first glimpse into what this year’s version of Bethune-Cookman football has in store.

Bethune-Cookman Football: Projected Starters for the 2024 Season

/ J Bell / Leave a comment

The 2024 season is fast approaching, and the excitement is palpable among Wildcats fans as we anticipate the resurgence of our beloved football program. While we’re still waiting for the official roster and two-deep depth chart from the university, the HailWildcats.com squad has been hard at work analyzing returning players from last season, Spring football highlights, and Fall camp reports to give you our best projection of who might emerge as the starting 11 on both sides of the ball.

Let’s be extremely clear about this, this list is purely speculative and not an official depth chart. What it is is a glimpse into some of the guys that we expect to make a strong impact on the 2024 season of Wildcat football based on the potential and progression we have observed.

The great news is that we only have a few more short weeks before we all get to see how these talented players, as well as others not named on this list, will step up and make their mark on the field of play.

Offense:

  • Quarterback (QB): Luke Sprague
  • Running Back (RB): Courtney Reese/ JoJo Brazil
  • Wide Receiver (WR-X): Jalen Brown
  • Wide Receiver (WR-Z): Lorenzo Jenkins
  • Wide Receiver (WR-Y): Omari Stewart
  • Left Tackle (LT): Cam Vaughn
  • Left Guard (LG): Surafel Seyfu
  • Center (C): David Poutasi
  • Right Guard (RG): Christopher McAlpin
  • Right Tackle (RT): Trevaris Hammond
  • Tight End (TE): Thomas Nance

Defense:

  • Defensive End (DE): Dallaz Corbitt
  • Defensive Tackle (NT): Adrian Hall
  • Defensive Tackle (DT): Dario Melendez
  • Edge: Orin Patu
  • Linebacker (LB): Dearis Thomas/ Kevin Washington 
  • Linebacker (LB): Trey Paster
  • Cornerback (CB): Andrew Volmer
  • Strong Safety (SS): Joshua Thornhill / Shawn Russ
  • Free Safety (FS): Raymond Woodie III
  • Cornerback (CB): Johnnie Harris
  • Nickle (STAR): Stephen Sparrow

Specialists:

  • Punter: Max Tulen
  • Kicker: Anthony Frédérique
  • Long Snapper: Clayton Thomas
  • Kick Returner: Darnell Deas
  • Punt Returner: Ray Woodie

Stay tuned for updates and let’s get ready to cheer on the Wildcats! 🏈 #AllHail

Bethune-Cookman Recruiting Roundup

/ J Bell / Leave a comment

National Signing Day 2024 is right around the corner, and you would be hard-pressed to find another HBCU program that’s riding a higher wave in recruiting than the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats are at this moment.

Credits: BCU Athletics

It’s quite amazing when you consider that at this time last year, BCU was the only Division One program in the country who entered National Signing Day without a head coach in place. One full rotation around the sun and Head Coach Raymond Woodie is absolutely crushing it with his first recruiting class.

Coach Woodie has addressed every checkbox on a recruiter’s wish list – from injecting speed into the squad to locking up players with significant size, college playing experience, and winning high school pedigrees. The Wildcats have successfully landed talented players from the transfer portal, JUCO, and high school ranks, some of whom boast impressive star ratings for those who appreciate such metrics. On top of this, Coach Woodie and staff have done an amazing job of recruiting their current roster and have had very few key players from last year’s squad jump in the portal.

Ahead of National Signing Day, let’s take a closer look at the promising 2024 recruiting class. The list below is unofficial and based on information gathered from various official and unofficial sources.

The Wildcats are expected to land 28 new arrivals on Signing Day – 14 Transfer/JUCO players and 14 high schoolers. 14 of the new additions also hold star ratings from national recruiting services – 4-four stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️, 7-three stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️, and 3-two stars ⭐️⭐️.

The positional breakdown is as follows: thirteen (13) defensive players (6 defensive backs, 5 defensive linemen/edge, 2 linebackers); and fifteen (15) offensive players (8 offensive linemen, 1 quarterback, 3 running backs, 3 wide receivers).  

Bethune-Cookman 2024 Signing Class
Transfer Portal (10)PositionSchoolRating
Raymond Woodie IIIDBCalifornia⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shawn RussDBArizona State⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Terrance AlexanderDBJacksonville State
Dallaz CorbittDLUCF⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas NanceDLUSF⭐️⭐️⭐️
Orin PatuEdgeArizona⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trey PasterLBColorado State⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lorenzo JenkinsWRPittsburg⭐️⭐️
Maleek HugginsWRGardner-Webb
Courtney ReeseRBUNLV⭐️⭐️⭐️
JUCO (4)
Surafel SeyfuOLContra Costa CC
Isaiah MaumaiangaOLEllsworth⭐️⭐️
Dario MelendezDLMyrtle Beach⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kevin WashingtonLBFresno City College⭐️⭐️
High School (14)
Nahseem DeasQBLincoln (Queens, NY)
Jaylen BookerOLTrinity Christian
Melvin PuckettOLMonarch
Truth MoodyOLSpruce Creek
William Roberts IIIOLSt. Thomas Aquinas⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vernon ClarkeOLNorland
Tremayne CarsonOLNorthwestern
Kenny JacksonWRMission Oaks, CA⭐️⭐️⭐️
Juan RodriguezRBNorland
Alvin JohnsonRBVenice
Cornelious BassEdgeEdgewater
Gabriel CashDBNorland
Jayden CummingsDBHillsborough
Matthew McKenzieDBBenjamin School⭐️⭐️⭐️

Immediate Impact Signees

Here is our best guess at the guys who will have the greatest opportunity to see the field next year.

Defensive Backs

The Wildcats graduate three of their starting defensive backs from a season ago leaving a huge hole on the backend of their defense. The most glaring loss is that of 3-time All-SWAC First Team cornerback, Omari Hill-Robinson. We expect Ray Woodie III, Shawn Russ, and Terrance Alexander to compete for playing time immediately in the secondary. Woodie, as I am sure you know, is the son of the head coach bearing the same name. The 6’0”, 200-pound safety transfers to BCU from Cal-Berkley. Woodie was a 4-star recruit out of high school and originally signed with Florida State and has made starts for both the Seminoles and Cal Bears. Woodie has proven to be both an active run defender and viable in pass defense in his 44 collegiate games played.

Shawn Russ transfers in from Arizona State after one year with the Sun Devils. While he doesn’t have as many collegiate snaps as Ray Woodie, his upside is tremendous. Russ is another 4-star addition to BCU’s defense and was one of the top defensive players in the State of Florida as a prep player at Dunbar High School. He checks all of the boxes athletically and can be a big playmaker much like the aforementioned Omari Hill-Robinson.

Joshua Thornhill, Nick Rawls II, Johnny Harris III, and Steven Sparrow return to bolster the BCU secondary, and all have started in multiple contests for BCU. Add Anthony Alonzo into the mix as a returning player who showed promise last season.

Matthew McKenzie from The Benjamin School in Palm Beach Gardens is 6’3”, 200 pounds and can play corner and safety. His size and athleticism will allow him to compete physically from day one. Rather he finds his way onto the field as a freshman is yet to be seen but the lack of physicality won’t be an issue in that decision.

Linebackers

Dearis Thomas was the leading tackler on the squad last year and was flanked by Shelton Quarles Jr. at the other linebacker position in Robert Wimberly’s 4-2-5 scheme. Both Thomas and Quarles return this season and will be joined at the position by new arrivals Trey Paster from Colorado State and Kevin Washington Jr. from Fresno City College. Paster and Washington add much needed size to the linebacker core for Bethune; yet both have shown on film they are athletic enough to make plays in space. Both Paster and Washington play violently, and we mean that in the best football way possible.

Defensive Line

The defensive line was objectively BCU’s best positional group on either side of the ball in 2023; yet it is highly possible that that unit may be even better in the 2024 campaign. Amarie Jones, Adrian Hall, Ejike Brown, Ebenezer Dibula, Jeffson Lafontant, Payton Doucet, and Jeremy Graves all return along the defensive front. Four-star Edge defenders Orin Patu (Arizona) and Dallaz Corbitt (UCF); along with three-star defensive lineman Dario Melendez will look to elevate and already stout defensive front. Melendez is a “twitchy” interior lineman who possess the skillsets you look for in a 3 technique. Patu and Corbitt are explosive Edge players with the requisite athleticism to run down backs and quarterbacks.

Running Back/Receivers

Explosive plays were scarce to nonexistent for Bethune last season, and as a result, the Wildcats ranked near the bottom of the SWAC in most significant offensive categories. The good news is BCU return 4 starting offensive linemen as well as their top 4 signal callers.

Maleek Huggins transfers in from Gardner-Webb and immediately provides BCU with a big play option. Huggins is a legitimate 4.4 guy and can stretch the field vertically or take a dump off, make a guy miss, and flip the field for you. Courtney Reese is a similar type option at the running back position. Reese, a three-star transfer from UNLV, demonstrated his big play ability when he rushed for 142 yards on 11 carries against Notre Dame in 2022. One of Reese carries was a 74-yard burst that setup the Running Rebels first score against the Fighting Irish.

Kenny Jackson is another incoming freshman who was highly recruited and possess the physical qualities necessary to compete for snaps immediately. Jackson is a 6-foot, 190 pound three-star athlete  who holds offers from San Jose State and Fresno State. When you put his game film on, you can’t help but think of Deebo Samuels. No, we are not saying Jackson will be a NFL Pro Bowler, however, his size and playing style are very reminiscent of the 49er’s superstar.

Offensive Line/Quarterback

As mentioned earlier, Bethune returns 4 starters along the offensive line and its top 4 quarterbacks from a season ago. This year’s signing class seems to focus on building depth at the offensive line position and securing their quarterback for the future in Nahseem Deas.

Deas picked up All-State honors in the State of New York and chose BCU over several MAC schools including Bowling Green and Toledo.

Isaiah Maumaianga and Surafel Seyfu join the Wildcats from the JUCO ranks and have the best chance of making an immediate impact in the trenches.

Did we miss someone? Are you eyeing another potential immediate impact guy? Are you still unsure about this signing class? We would love to hear from you. Feel free to contact us via our socials. You are also welcome to join us on @HailWildcat Spaces this upcoming Monday night, February 5th at 7:30pm to discuss this year’s signing class in more detail.

Hail Wildcats!

Sorted by Position
NamePositionSchoolRating
Raymond Woodie IIIDBCalifornia⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shawn RussDBArizona State⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Terrance AlexanderDBJacksonville State
Gabriel CashDBNorland
Jayden CummingsDBHillsborough
Matthew McKenzieDBBenjamin School⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dallaz CorbittDLUCF⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas NanceDLUSF⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dario MelendezDLMyrtle Beach⭐️⭐️⭐️
Orin PatuEdgeArizona⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cornelious BassEdgeEdgewater
Trey PasterLBColorado State⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kevin WashingtonLBFresno City College⭐️⭐️
Surafel SeyfuOLContra Costa CC
Isaiah MaumaiangaOLEllsworth⭐️⭐️
Jaylen BookerOLTrinity Christian
Melvin PuckettOLMonarch
Truth MoodyOLSpruce Creek
William Roberts IIIOLSt. Thomas Aquinas⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vernon ClarkeOLNorland
Tremayne CarsonOLNorthwestern
Nahseem DeasQBLincoln (Queens, NY)
Courtney ReeseRBUNLV⭐️⭐️⭐️
Juan RodriguezRBNorland
Alvin JohnsonRBVenice
Lorenzo JenkinsWRPittsburg⭐️⭐️
Maleek HugginsWRGardner-Webb
Kenny JacksonWRMission Oaks, CA⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sorted by Star Rating
NamePositionSchoolRating
Raymond Woodie IIIDBCalifornia⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Shawn RussDBArizona State⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dallaz CorbittDLUCF⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Orin PatuEdgeArizona⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Matthew McKenzieDBBenjamin School⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thomas NanceDLUSF⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dario MelendezDLMyrtle Beach⭐️⭐️⭐️
Trey PasterLBColorado State⭐️⭐️⭐️
William Roberts IIIOLSt. Thomas Aquinas⭐️⭐️⭐️
Courtney ReeseRBUNLV⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kenny JacksonWRMission Oaks, CA⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kevin WashingtonLBFresno City College⭐️⭐️
Isaiah MaumaiangaOLEllsworth⭐️⭐️
Lorenzo JenkinsWRPittsburg⭐️⭐️
Terrance AlexanderDBJacksonville State
Gabriel CashDBNorland
Jayden CummingsDBHillsborough
Cornelious BassEdgeEdgewater
Surafel SeyfuOLContra Costa CC
Jaylen BookerOLTrinity Christian
Melvin PuckettOLMonarch
Truth MoodyOLSpruce Creek
Vernon ClarkeOLNorland
Tremayne CarsonOLNorthwestern
Nahseem DeasQBLincoln (Queens, NY)
Juan RodriguezRBNorland
Alvin JohnsonRBVenice
Maleek HugginsWRGardner-Webb

Bethune-Cookman’s Rocky Start in SWAC Play and the Upcoming Homecoming Clash

/ J Bell / Leave a comment

Bethune-Cookman is off to a slow start in conference play, and if you listen closely, you can already hear the troubling winds of murmuring and doubt beginning to blow among the Wildcat faithful. The goal for Coach Raymond Woodie and his staff is to find a way to secure a win at this week’s homecoming clash against Texas Southern and help prevent that doubt from creeping into his football team.

Photo by David Campbell/Alabama State University

There were high hopes for this program at the onset of the season. Coach Woodie brought with him an enthusiasm this program has been missing for years. Along with him came over 50 new players, a brand new coaching staff, and the promise of a return to BCU’s winning ways. Yet the Wildcats find themselves in a challenging spot, having begun conference play 0-2. 

The first blow came from Jackson State on the road, where despite a strong defensive performance and a chance to get the ball back and take the lead in the waning moments of the contest, the Wildcats failed to make the plays necessary to win and succumbed 22-16 to the reigning conference champs.

Their subsequent game against Alabama State in Montgomery was a rinse and repeat of the JSU game. BCU had the ball first and goal from the 10 yard line and trailed by just 5 points with under 2:00 left in the game. Yet again, the Wildcats could not find the right ingredients to close out the game and fell 14-19 to the Hornets.

So here we are; scratching our heads and wondering “is this last year, again”? Are the Wildcats destined for another historically bad season? Is the rebuilding process still on track and did someone put a “Color Purple”, Ms. Ceile curse on the Wildcats due to all the negativity surrounding the university?

Whatever is going on right now, the product on the gridiron needs some immediate attention. A win this weekend for the Wildcats, in front of a homecoming crowd, keeps the rebuild on schedule and cools the feelings of discontentment.  A loss this weekend and…well let’s just say BCU will have BIG PROBLEMS. 

BCU’s Defensive Dominance

One thing that cannot be denied is BCU’s formidable defense. The Wildcats rank first in pass defense, giving up just 146 yards per game against conference opponents. They are also  limiting SWAC opponents to just 20.5 points a game. The stout defensive performances have kept BCU competitive in every conference game they’ve played. Linebacker Dearis Thomas leads the team in tackles (43) and tackles for loss (7).

Offensive Struggles

On the flip side, the offense has been a sore point. In last week’s contest against ASU, Bethune managed to pass for a measly 75 yards and were held to a pedestrian 198 yards of total offense. In the game prior, BCU passed the ball a little better gaining 176 yards through the air but only managed 58 rushing yards against JSU’s defense. 

The Wildcat offense simply has not been good enough to win games at this level. Period. There is no way to sugarcoat it.

Injuries haven’t helped the cause on offense. Starting running back, Jouvensly Bazil, went down midway through the first half against JSU and the Wildcats are depleted along the offensive line. But the biggest blow has come at the quarterback position, the pivotal role for any football team’s offensive success.

QB1, Luke Sprauge, and QB2, Talik Bethea, both suffered shoulder injuries in the Miami game and neither has taken a snap against SWAC opponents this season. The injuries have forced the Wildcats to go with third string quarterback Walter Simmons. Most teams in the country struggle playing with their 3rd string QB and the Wildcats are no different. Bethune’s offense has struggled through the injuries and rank last in passing offense, last in offensive efficiency, last in first downs gained, last in 3rd down conversions and next to last in total offense. 

Yikes!

Perhaps the question we hear most murmured from Wildcat fans is “when is Luke returning?” There is a strong feeling among the Wildcat faithful that Bethune would be 2-0 in SWAC play if they had the full service of starting quarterback Luke Sprauge. We think so too but we don’t know that for sure. We also do not know when Luke will return. Therefore the onus is on offensive coordinator, Joe Gerbino, to come up with a scheme that fits the  personnel he has at his disposal.

For as much as BCU’s offense has struggled with Simmons at QB, I do not place all of the blame at Simmons’ feet. Coach Gerbino has to do a better job of tailoring the offense to match his quarterback’s skillset. Simmons’ running ability is his strength. Asking him to read the entire field and go through 4 or 5 progressions just isn’t his game. Trying to force Simmons to run that type of offense is more of a failure of the offensive coaching staff than it is the player. 

I know coaches tend to get very defensive when fans, journalists, and bloggers report on what’s not working; but you don’t need a bunch of talking heads to state the obvious. Just check the results and stats for all the proof you need. BCU ranks at the bottom of the league in virtually every offensive category. Gerbino has to either tailor his offense to the guy that is available to him under center; or put someone else out there who can operate this offense more efficiently.  

The Road Ahead

A win is crucial to keep Coach Woodie’s rebuild project on the right trajectory. And look at what the Lord ordered up for the Wildcats; a Texas Southern team who are also struggling this season. TSU is without their All-Conference quarterback Andrew Body. The Tigers have been as bad on defense as the Wildcats have been on offense. Like BCU, TSU has failed to win close games against conference opponents and secured their lone win of the season against a Division 2 foe. 

If there were ever a perfect opponent for a get right game, this is it. The problem is, both teams are thanking Jesus for this gift and think they have found the perfect opponent to get things back on track.

Cookman has the fortune of playing this game in front of a homecoming crowd. A win on homecoming can rally the fans and players and restore belief in the direction of the team. A loss would stir the already troubled waters and cast shadows over the future of the program.

The time for excuses is over, Wildcats. It’s time to get it done. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00pm. The game can also be viewed on HBCUGo.

Hail Wildcats!

Raymond Woodie, Bethune-Cookman Thumps Savannah State for Coach’s First Career Win

/ J Bell / Leave a comment
Credits: BCU Athletics
Photo Credits: BCU Athletics

Raymond Woodie was all smiles after collecting his first career win on Saturday night against Savannah State. 

The normally stoic Woodie couldn’t quite hide the huge grin on his face in the postgame presser after Bethune’s commanding 31-6 triumph over SSU. Yet, staying true to his humble nature, he deflected the limelight onto his squad when asked to describe the emotions of his first collegiate victory as a head coach. 

“It feels good, especially to get the first win at home (but) I am happy for the players. It is all about the players” he remarked. 

While the night ended in warm fuzzies for Woodie and the maroon and gold faithful, it certainly did not begin that way.  The Wildcats got off to a sluggish start managing to register no points and only 2 first downs through the first quarter and a half of the contest. With the score still locked at 0-0, Woodie  made the decision to pull starting quarterback Walter Simmons and replace him with Luke Spraugue. The Wildcats looked like a completely different team after that tactical change.

Sprauge, who led the National JUCO Association in yards and completions last season, directed the BCU offense on 5 scoring drives on the team’s next 6 possessions. BCU opened the game’s scoring on a 12 play, 80 yard drive which ended in a 13 yard Jouvensly Bazil touchdown run. 

Savannah State scored a pair of field goals on the last possession of the first half and the first possession of the second half to cut the lead to 7-6. Those two field goals would be the Tiger’s only and last points of the contest as Bethune would score 24 unanswered from that point forward.

Bazil scored his second rushing touchdown of the afternoon on a 22 yard scamper to push the lead to 14-6 early in the third quarter. Sprague found Dacarri Allen-Johnson in the back of the south end zone at the 1:44 mark in the third to stretch the lead to 21-6. And after a 45 yard Cade Hechter field goal in the final frame, Sprague connected with Allen-Johnson for the game’s final score, this time in the back of the north end zone. 

For those keeping score at home, that’s 2 passing touchdowns for Sprague, 2 rushing touchdowns for Bazil, and 2 receiving touchdowns for Allen-Johnson.  Sprague’s final stat line was 23 for 29 for 223 yards.

Linebacker Dearis Thomas led the way defensively with 9 total tackles and 1 sack. 

Woodie and the Wildcats won’t have very long to celebrate this win as they travel south on I-95 to take on the University of Miami this Thursday night. 

Team Stats

Savannah State TigersBethune-Cookman Wildcats
1st Downs1525
3rd down efficiency1-125-10
4th down efficiency1-20-0
Total Yards273387
Passing193262
Comp-Att17-3125-35
Yards per pass6.27.5
Interceptions thrown01
Rushing80125
Rushing Attempts2729
Yards per rush3.04.3
Penalties9-953-20
Turnovers12
Fumbles lost11
Interceptions thrown01
Possession29:1330:47

BCU prepare for new era, release depth chart

/ J Bell / 1 Comment

Hello Wildcat Nation! After a rather eventful offseason, the 2023 college football season is finally here.

Before we jump in head first, I need you to do me a huge favor. Take a deep breath in, now exhale.

That feels good right? It feels almost like a slice of normalcy. And haven’t we missed normalcy over these past nine months.

Let’s all hope that we can get use to some “good normalcy” around our football program. If judging by some of the things happening around the program as of late, there just might be some light on the horizon for “Dear ‘Ol Bethune-Cookman”.

  • Our own Wildcat alumnus, Head Coach Raymond Woodie, is now in charge of the football program.
  • The new turf practice field is nearing completion.
  • The upgrades to the stadium were recently finalized.

But let’s keep it real, or as my college aged kids say, let’s keep  it a buck, while we appreciate the changes AROUND the program, what we are truly eager for is progress WITHIN the program.

The Wildcats are unveiling a fresh look, with 19 new starters taking the field against the The Memphis Tigers this Saturday at 7:00pm.  

Meet the Starting Line-Up:

  • Offense: QB Tylik Bethea (Delaware State grad transfer), RBs Jaiden Bivens & Jimmy Robinson III, TE Kahlil Overton, WRs Daveno Ellington, Dacarri Allen-Johnson, and Tink Boyd (Va Tech transfer), OL Miguel Sahagun, Antuan Wells, Christina Loving, Jahmari Sylvester (FIU transfer), and Trevaris Hammond.
  • Defense: DL Eddie Walls III, Andrian Hall, Deonte Washington (Texas St transfer), and Amarie Jones. LBs Dearis Thomas (FAU transfer) and Shelton Quarles Jr. (Samford transfer), and Secondary Stephen Sparrow, Iverson Clement (Temple transfer), Ja’Bari Joudon, Johnny Harris III, and Omari Hill-Robinson.

For a detailed Week One depth chart, click here.

Notes and Observations:

  • Although the Week One depth chart offers a glimpse into guys who should see regular playing time, it’s essential to avoid making too many assumptions based on the current depth chart. There are a few names not currently listed but who may emerge as significant contributors this season. Here are a few.

  • Quarterback Cam Ransom: The McNeese State/Georgia Southern transfer showcased leadership and skill during Fall Camp, but rumor has it that he’s awaiting the NCAA’s verdict on his pending waiver for immediate eligibility after transferring to his second school.
  • Jaylin Terzado: This 3-star wideout transfer from Western Carolina showed immense promise in Fall Camp. However, the speedy receiver is currently nursing an injury. We’re rooting for a quick recovery.
  • Eddie Walls III: Speaking of immense promise, no one had a better Fall Camp than the 6’3”, 250lb defensive end from South Ft. Myers High School. Walls showed flashes last season but is looking even more formidable this year coming off the edge. 
  • LaQuan Johnson: A late addition to the Bethune-Cookman roster is a high motor defensive end transfer from Central Michigan. He, along with Walls, may  provide the level of disruption from the Edge position that has been missing from the Wildcat defense over the past two seasons. 
  • Cornerback Dynamics: With two time All-SWAC performer Omari Hill-Robinson and Temple University/University of Florida transfer Iverson Clement, Cookman  might just have one of the best cornerback tandems in the conference.

Anticipation is building, and the clock’s ticking down to the season’s first kickoff at 7:00pm. As always, a contingent from HailWildcats.com will be in the house. If you can’t join us in Memphis, TN, the game’s airing on the ESPN network. For those looking to join HailWildcats.com at the game, visit letsgowildcats.org for travel details.

Finally, The HailWildcats Gridiron radio show will resume this Thursday, August 31st, from 8:00pm-10:00 on Joy 106.3 FM and Joy1063FM.com. Join us live to talk Bethune-Cookman football.

Bethune-Cookman’s New Additions: Coach Raymond Woodie is Revamping the Roster

/ J Bell / Leave a comment
Credits: BCU

Summer is officially upon us and the weather is not the only thing heating up in Daytona Beach. Bethune-Cookman University’s new head football coach, Raymond Woodie, has been working feverishly to restore his alma mater’s winning ways. With a focus on revamping the roster, Woodie is assembling an impressive group of talented players that have fans buzzing with excitement.

BCU held the dubious distinction of being the only Division One Football program who did not have a head coach when National Signing Day 2023 rolled around. As a result, only twelve players signed National Letters of Intent to play for the Wildcats back in February. However, Coach Woodie’s reputation as a top-notch recruiter has attracted the attention of talented athletes from across the country who are eager to be a part of his vision for the program. Since National Signing Day, more than 30 players have been brought in to help overhaul Bethune-Cookman’s roster.

Woodie’s first wave of additions include a mix of FBS/FCS transfers, JUCO standouts, and highly-rated high school recruits, all of whom bring unique skills and experiences to the team. Let’s take a closer look at each group.

FBS/FCS transfers: Woodie wasted no time in bolstering the roster with Division I talent, specifically talent from around “The Sunshine State”. 10 of BCU’s 14 Division One transfers are either from or played college football in the state of Florida. Former University of Florida running back, Iverson Clement, headlines this group. Clement is a former 4⭐️ recruit who made a stop at Temple University before announcing his commitment to BCU. 

Cam Ransom helped lead Florida powerhouse Seffner Armwood to the state championship finals before signing with Georgia Southern. Ransom and Delaware State transfer Tylik Bethea will look to take charge of an inexperienced quarterback room and add stability and depth to the position.

In one of the coolest stories in the country, Aaron Overton Jr. transfers in from Nevada and will join his older brothers Kahlil and Cameron on Bethune’s roster. 

Tink Boyd transfers in from Va Tech and is one of 8 new wide receivers.

Division One Transfers:

3⭐️ Kareem Wilson, DL, 6’4”, 260, Florida Atlantic

3⭐️ Caleb Lynum, WR, 6’2”, 215, WR, FIU

4⭐️ Iverson Clement, RB, 5’11”,185, RB Florida

3⭐️ Cameron Ransom, QB, 6’3”, 215, GA Southern

3⭐️ Jahmari Sylvester,OL, 3* 6’5”, 325, FIU

3⭐️ Deonte Washington, DL, 6’3”, 290, Texas State

3⭐️ Dashon Ross, LB, 6’1”, 235, UMass

3⭐️ Jaylin Terzado, WR, 6’0”, 175, Western Carolina

2⭐️ Baba Conate, LB, 6’2”, 230, FIU

Aaron Overton, DL, 6’3”, 285, Nevada

Tink Boyd, WR, 5’11”,185, Virginia Tech

Tylik Bethea, QB, 6’6”, 215, Delaware State

Kiwon Harris, DB, 6’1”, 210, WKU

Hallston Fergilus, OL, 6’4”, 310, Delaware State

JUCO standouts: In addition to the FBS/FCS transfers, Woodie has also targeted standout players from the junior college ranks from as far away as California and Australia. JUCO standouts often bring a level of maturity, experience, and proverbial ‘chip on the shoulder’ that can be invaluable to a team. With their experience and skill set, they will provide depth and competition at key positions, pushing the entire team to elevate their game.

JUCO Signees:

Johnny Harris III, DB, 6’3”, 180, Garden City CC

Chris McAlpin, OL, 6’3”, 300, Chabot JUCO

Miguel Sahagun, OL, 6’5”, 285, OL, College of San Mateo

Ebenezer Dibula, DL, 6’3”, 285, Minn St. JUCO (Prior Bethune-Cookman player)

Jalen Brown, WR, 6’6” 220, Louisburg CC

Cade Hechter, P/K, Pro Kick Australia

Highly touted high school signees, including a few 3 star recruits, will look to contribute early and help with the rebuild. Several of the high school signees chose the hBCU route over larger FBS programs. Donteye Drew held offers from schools like Appalachian State, Ja’Vieane Stephens held offers from UCF, Kyon Calhoun held offers from USF amongst others.

High School Signees:

3⭐️ Ja’Vieane Stevens, LB, 6’0” 205, Dunbar 

3⭐️ Anthony Alonzo, Athlete, 5’11”, 185, Oakland Technical, CA

3⭐️ Kyon Calhoun, WR, 6’5”, 200, Cocoa HS

Donteye Drew, DL, 6’1”, 275,  Tampa Bay Tech

Sir Bo Reed, WR, 6’4, 205, Booker T Washington (Pensacola)

Eric Triplett, WR, 5’7”, 150, Largo

Jermaris Speights, DB, 5’10”, 160, Lincoln, (Tallahassee)

Brandon  Armenteros, WR. 6’3”, 200, West Broward HS

Jayson Edwards, OL, 6’7”, 330, Spruce Creek

Payton Doucet, LB, 6’3”, 200, Ridge Point, (Missouri City, TX)

The impact of this talent infusion may not be felt immediately as it often takes time for players to adjust to the college game and develop chemistry with their teammates. What is already being felt is a new energy and enthusiasm around the team as the Wildcats look to reestablish their winning tradition. 

Count us among those who are excited to see what the team will achieve under Woodie’s guidance.

Bethune-Cookman University Names Raymond Woodie, Jr. Head Football Coach

/ J Bell / Leave a comment

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Bethune-Cookman University Director of Athletics Reggie Theus announced today (February 6, 2023) the appointment of Raymond Woodie as Head Football Coach. Woodie, 49, becomes the 16th head coach of Bethune-Cookman Football.

Raymond Woodie Jr. -Credits The Atlantic

“A new era at Bethune-Cookman University begins today,” said Interim President Lawrence M. Drake II, Ph.D. “Word of our pending new leadership has been hard to contain, so we are thrilled to officially welcome Raymond back home to Bethune-Cookman University. Throughout our search process, we stressed the need for a leader who understands our university’s history, traditions, and values, in addition to possessing firm athletic leadership prowess. Coach Woodie embodies each of these qualities.”

Woodie, a four-year letterwinner as a linebacker and 1996 graduate of Bethune-Cookman College, takes the helm of Wildcats Football following an impressive career as an assistant coach at numerous Power 5 schools including Florida Atlantic University (2020-22), Florida State University (2018-19), the University of Oregon (2017) and the University of South Florida (2013-16).

“We are elated to have Raymond Woodie, Jr. return to Bethune-Cookman University to lead our storied football program,” Director of Athletics Reggie Theus said.  We felt confident in his experience, his leadership, and his ability to embrace the spirit of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in this 100th year of B-CU football.  We are locked in the vision for providing a championship culture through his detailed plan for recruiting academically talented student athletes, along with a sustained desire to provide a high-level experience.  It’s evidently clear why Coach Woodie has had terrific success in his journey; and we look forward to his return to Daytona Beach and starting this new era.”

Woodie has been recognized as one of the premier recruiters in college football, serving as an assistant under Head Coach Willie Taggart across multiple coaching stops. He has recruited seven players that were eventually selected in the NFL Draft.

“As a parent, Coach Woodie is the type of person you want your son coached by,” said Leslie Frazier, Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator of the Buffalo Bills. “He is a tremendous leader, person of integrity, and will do the right thing at all costs. Your son will be mentored and treated in the right way. He’s the ideal choice and I look forward to him having much success at his alma mater, Bethune Cookman.”

During his time with Oregon in 2017, Woodie was named the No. 1 recruiter in the PAC-12, as well as No. 13 in the nation by 247 Sports. Woodie led the way in signing the American Athletic Conference’s top-ranked classes in 2014 and 2015, in addition to the top class in the Sun Belt Conference in 2010 and 2011. Woodie was named AAC Top Recruiter by Rivals in 2014, and Sun Belt Recruiter of the Year by Scout/FoxSports.com in 2012.

“Coach Woodie is an unbelievable recruiter and an even better person,” said Forrest Lamp, NFL offensive lineman and one of Woodie’s recruits at Western Kentucky. “Coach Woodie hasn’t coached me in 10 years but has stayed in contact the entire time. I think that says more about the man than any stat could. He truly cares and always has the kids’ best interest in mind. I am so excited to see what the future holds for Coach Woodie and the Wildcats!”

Most recently, Woodie served as Associate Head Coach at Florida Atlantic, where he worked primarily with special teams and oversaw all aspects of recruiting in the role of recruiting coordinator for the Owls. 

“I am extremely happy for Raymond Jr. and Stephanie,” Said Coach Willie Taggart.  “Bethune Cookman University is getting a man of God, and a leader of men. He is an outstanding recruiter and a coach that will get the best out of his student athletes and staff, on and off the field. Raymond Jr. will make the Wildcat nation proud!”

In his time as a student-athlete at Bethune-Cookman, Woodie was a two-time Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) First Team Defense selection, as well as a two-time Football Championship Subdivision (formerly Division I-AA) All-America selection. He was also the first Bethune-Cookman student-athlete to be named a GTE Academic All-American and have $25,000 donated to the University in his name.

Prime vs. Shine: A Spectacle in HBCU Sports History

/ bgillens / 1 Comment
  • Photo credits: Bleacher Report
  • Photo Credits: Sports Illustrated

On the eve of Bethune-Cookman University hosting Jackson State at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, FL for a Southwestern Athletic Conference East divisional showdown, I sat down and thought about what a dream scenario could’ve potentially been.

You know the generational conversations; the ones discussed in barbershops, sports bars, and on podcasts. The ones where you debate how things might have turned out if the events could’ve taken place:

  • 1987 Lakers vs 2001 Lakers
  • 1996 Bulls vs. 2016 Warriors
  • 1985 Bears vs. 2007 Patriots
  • 1999 FAMU Rattlers vs. 2002 B-CU Wildcats

As long as I can remember, these conversations have dominated the sports lexicon among fans. If we were to examine this through an HBCU lens, what could this game have been if a few things were different?

Yes folks, I’m talking about the “Brawl for it all in Duval.”

Or more eloquently stated, “Prime vs. Shine.”

For longtime fans and supporters of the university located in “The World’s Most Famous Beach,” the attention, swag, flash, and flair Jackson State head coach Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders has brought to the SWAC is nothing new to the Wildcat faithful. They’ve seen this movie before. In fact, some would argue that B-CU and Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Hall of Famer Alvin “Shine” Wyatt is the architect of HBCU flamboyant coaches. Long before it was popular, and quite frankly considered off-putting by his coaching peers, “Shine” as he is affectionately called, traded coach’s polos and khakis for leisure suits and alligator boots. And while he was definitely the epitome of style, there was plenty of substance there as well.

In his 13 years as head coach of Bethune-Cookman, Wyatt became the all-time winningest coach in school history, amassing a record of 90-54, earning wins against legendary coaches such as Joe Taylor, Bill Hayes, Oliver “Buddy” Pough, and his school’s interstate rival Florida A&M and coach William “Billy” Joe. He also captured two MEAC Titles (2002, 2003), one conference coach of the year award (1998), one Heritage Bowl appearance (1998) and two NCAA FCS Playoff appearances (2002, 2003).

He also placed several players in the NFL such as Rashean Mathis, Nick Collins, and Eric Weems. Wyatt would depart the Wildcat program in 2009 as arguably the greatest coach in school history.

11 years later, it appeared HBCU football had found a reincarnation of Wyatt when Jackson State announced it was hiring Deion Sanders as its 21st head coach of their football program. Known for his flashy style both on and off the field as a player, “Prime Time” as he was affectionately called, is widely considered the best defensive back in the history of the NFL and was enshrined into the NFL Hall of Fame in 2011.

In just one calendar year, Coach Prime guided the Tigers to their first SWAC championship since 2007, received the Eddie Robinson Award as the season’s top FCS head coach and currently has his Tigers at a perfect 5-0 and a Top 10 ranking in FCS standings. In the process, he also managed to flip the 2022 #1 high school recruit in Travis Hunter away from his alma mater Florida State to Jackson State, much to the chagrin of several college coaches across the country and watch his son, Shedeur Sanders, win the Jerry Rice Award, given to the best freshman player in FCS football.

So, in a perfect world, what would a matchup between Shine and Prime look like? Well first, aside from the game being played on the field, the pre-game press conferences would be must-see TV. I can only imagine the witty banter between the coaches prior to the game. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of witnessing either of them during a media scrum, the quotes that would have been given would have forever been etched in history. Never one to miss a marketing opportunity, Sanders would certainly have his camera crew following him around all week (courtesy of his relationship with Barstool Sports) documenting each step of preparation before the game.

Not to be outdone, Shine would have had the CatEye Network chronicling everything from his team running wind sprints on the beach before dawn to him grabbing some wings from the legendary Bethune Grill near campus (if you know you know).

On gameday, while Prime would likely opt for a JSU hoodie and sweats, you better believe, no matter the weather, Shine would come out of the tunnel donning a mink coat, accompanied by a white leisure suit with oversized gold belt buckle, or an officially licensed B-CU branded one piece jumpsuit. There’s no doubt the following Monday they both would have been featured on ESPN’s Get Up, First Take, Around the Horn and Pardon the Interruption amongst other shows on competing networks.

While it is tough to predict the outcome of the game, as Jackson State boasts a potent offense vs the always formidable Wildcat defense during Wyatt’s tenure, the true winners would’ve been the fans and supporters of both schools and HBCU’s in general. The game itself would have been one of those “you had to be there” affairs, where, as the years go by, the legend of the story grows larger and larger.

While that certainly will not be the case on Saturday as current Wildcat head coach Terry Sims is the complete antithesis of Wyatt in more ways than one, sometimes it’s nice to sit back, smile and think about what could have possibly been.

After all, a guy can dream.