As the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers wrap up their final week of preseason camp, optimism is in the air as the team gears up to hit the road for their first game of the 2024 season against Jacksonville State on Thursday, August 29th. With over 40 new transfers joining the roster, including several high-profile names, the Chanticleers are focused on building a strong foundation under the leadership of second-year head coach Tim Beck.
Quarterback Battle Heats Up
One of the most closely watched developments during camp has been the quarterback competition. Michigan State transfer Noah Kim, North Carolina transfer Tad Hudson, and returning sophomore Ethan Vasko are all vying for the starting role. Each quarterback has impressed during practice, showcasing their skills during time drills and handling the simulated crowd noise with poise—a critical factor as they prepare for the hostile environment at Jacksonville State.
Noah Kim, who started five games for Michigan State in 2023, brings valuable experience to the table. Last season, he completed 91-of-160 passes for 1,090 yards, with six touchdowns and six interceptions. Kim's ability to command the offense under pressure is one of his key strengths, and he’s expected to be a strong contender for the starting job.
Tad Hudson, a redshirt freshman from North Carolina who joined the Chanticleers in the spring, has also shown promise. Hudson's arm strength and mobility have been on full display during camp, making him a viable option for Coach Beck.
Ethan Vasko, who saw action in eight games last season, completing 62% of his passes for 779 yards, seven touchdowns, and just one interception, has also made a strong case for himself. Vasko’s dual-threat ability, highlighted by his 368 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the ground in 2023, adds a different dimension to the offense.
Freshman DJ Moore from Jacksonville, Florida, has also turned heads during camp. Moore’s ability to move in the pocket and nice arm talent suggest a bright future for the young quarterback, although he is expected to serve in a developmental role this season.
Defensive Overhaul and New Faces
The defense will look significantly different this year, particularly on the defensive line, where 15 of the 19 players are new to the program. The unit will be anchored by returning players Braylon Ryan, Manny Johnson, and Will Whitson as they help integrate the newcomers into the system. This revamped line will be crucial in establishing Coastal Carolina's defensive identity.
The secondary remains a strong point for the Chanticleers, with experienced players like Juan Powell, Matthew McDoom, Abraham Temoney III, Tobias Fletcher, and Courtney Eubanks returning to provide leadership. Linebacker Shane Bruce, a redshirt senior who earned 2023 Athlon Sports Preseason All-Sun Belt Fourth Team honors, is expected to take on a significant leadership role after recording 52 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and an interception last season.
New Playmakers on Offense
On the offensive side of the ball, the quarterback—whoever earns the starting nod—will have to work with a new group of playmakers after the departure of key weapons like Sam Pinckney, the Sun Belt's all-time receiving yards leader, and Jared Brown, who transferred to South Carolina.
Wide receiver Jameson Tucker is poised to step up after an impressive 2023 season where he recorded 20 receptions for 423 yards and three touchdowns, averaging a remarkable 21.2 yards per catch. In the backfield, Braydon Bennett and Max Balthazar are expected to share the load. Bennett contributed over 600 yards from scrimmage last year, while Balthazar, who had 211 rushing yards and three touchdowns, is likely to see increased action. The addition of Simeon Price from Mississippi State will also bolster the backfield following the departure of CJ Beasley to Georgia State.
Building the Program 'The Beck Way'
As Coach Tim Beck enters his second season at the helm, he is focused on building the program in his image—what I like to call "The Beck Way." This involves fostering a culture of discipline, resilience, and teamwork, qualities that will be crucial as Coastal Carolina navigates a challenging Sun Belt Conference schedule.
The Chanticleers' season opener at Jacksonville State is set for 8:00 p.m. ET and will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network. With a retooled roster, a fierce quarterback battle, and a determined coaching staff, Coastal Carolina is ready to make waves in the Sun Belt Conference this season.
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