SAVANNAH, Ga. () — The expectations are always high for Benedictine football. Especially when you return a Division I quarterback and bring in one of the top defensive players in the nation.

Last year, was an off year for the cadets. However, most programs in the state would be happy to have BC’s down year. Benedictine advanced to the state quarterfinals after posting a 7-5 record overall and going 3-2 in the region.

Quarterback Stephon Cannon said he feels great as he recovered from a shoulder injury. Cannon played six games last season before returning in the team’s final game against Blessed Trinity. He completed 87 of 149 passes for 1,352 yards and 11 touchdowns against five interceptions.

“It’s definitely easier to see everything from the sideline when you’re not in the action,” Cannon said. “I definitely could take a step back. I was also helping with sideline films. As stuff would happen, I’d watch it on the iPads and see what was going on.”

Benedictine brings in Ladamion Guyton, who is the number four player in the nation for the Class of 2027, according to 247sports. Guyton comes over from Savannah Christian where he played two seasons under head coach Baker Woodward. He was a part of the 2023 team that played for the Class AAA state title.

“I never feel pressure,” Guyton said. “For me, I just look at things as they come. I don’t look to far ahead. That’s how you get stressed out. I just stay where I’m at.”

Benedictine has a difficult non-regoin schedule. They start with a scrimmage at Camden County, then they open the season at Colquitt County, before returning home to face Buford. Then, it’s back on the road for games against Burke County and Westminster.