News Summary
The Irmo Yellow Jackets football team is making headlines as they enter the AAAAA Division II state championship match currently undefeated at 9-0. With standout players like Jaiden Bryant and AJ Brand, the team is determined to secure their first state title since 1980. The match against Northwestern promises to be a significant challenge, but strong team dynamics and school spirit bolster their hopes.
Irmo – The Irmo Yellow Jackets football team is once again poised to compete for a state championship, following a strong performance during the current season. The team is currently undefeated with a record of 9-0 and will face the formidable Northwestern squad in the AAAAA Division II state championship, which will be held at SC State University.
Led by standout players, including Class of 2027 prospects such as defensive end Jaiden Bryant and offensive tackle Nate Carson, the Yellow Jackets have showcased exceptional skills on the field. Bryant, known for his impressive pass-rushing ability, recorded 21 sacks and 92 tackles last season. He has enhanced his game further this year, making him a prime target for colleges nationwide. South Carolina’s defensive ends coach Sterling Lucas is actively recruiting him, underscoring the strong relationship they have developed.
Jaiden Bryant is not the only player drawing attention; quarterback AJ Brand, a senior committed to Virginia Tech, has had a record-breaking season. He has amassed 2,449 passing yards and 28 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,894 yards and 25 touchdowns. Coach Aaron Brand is optimistic that AJ could be the first player in state history to achieve both 2,500 passing yards and over 2,000 rushing yards in a single season.
Beyond Bryant and Brand, the Irmo roster includes star receiver Donovan Murph, who has made 88 catches for 1,205 yards and 10 touchdowns this season despite facing intense defensive scrutiny. Sophomore receiver Maleek Miller and freshman receiver Demarion Arrington complement the offensive lineup, contributing to the team’s success.
Irmo Yellow Jackets recently had sanctions lifted by the South Carolina High School League, related to a player’s eligibility stemming from residency issues. This decision was particularly timely as it occurred right before a critical game against Dutch Fork, where the Yellow Jackets aimed to secure the region championship. Initially, these sanctions included potential game forfeitures and a postseason ban, but the resolution came just in time for the team to focus on its championship aspirations.
Despite a single loss to Dutch Fork (24-14) in their regular-season finale, the momentum gained throughout the season has set high expectations for the championship match. Northwestern, known for scoring an average of 50 points per game, presents a significant challenge according to Coach Brand. The Yellow Jackets are determined to claim their first state title since 1980, having last reached the championship in 2006.
As the Yellow Jackets prepare for the championship clash, fan anticipation and school spirit are at an all-time high. The combination of star players and strategic coaching positions Irmo as a strong contender in the upcoming title match. The team is not only seeking glory on the field but also aiming to set a historic precedent for future generations of Irmo football.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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South Carolina Gamecocks Offer Scholarship to Jaiden Bryant
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Irmo High School Football Stars Commit to Yale and USC
Irmo High School Football Team Prepares for 2025 Season
Irmo High School Basketball Coach Tim Whipple Retires
Irmo High School Football Program Overturns Sanctions
West Florence Knights Overpower Irmo Yellow Jackets in Playoffs
Additional Resources
- The State: Irmo Yellow Jackets Football News
- Wikipedia: Irmo, South Carolina
- Herald Online: Irmo Football Updates
- Google Search: Irmo Yellow Jackets football
- HSSR: AJ Brand Leading Irmo
- Google Scholar: Irmo Yellow Jackets
- Cola Daily: Irmo Football Star Commits
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Irmo
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
