Third Time's the Charm: Gainesville Cardinals Gear Up for a Milestone Season

• 8/29: @ Potomac Senior – 7:00 PM

• 9/6: @ Gar-Field – 7:00 PM

• 9/13: vs Woodbridge – 7:00 PM

• 9/20: vs Robinson – 7:00 PM

• 9/27: vs Osbourn Park* – 7:00 PM

• 10/10: @ Patriot* – 7:00 PM

• 10/18: @ Battlefield* – 7:00 PM

• 10/25: vs Osbourn* – 7:00 PM

• 11/1: @ Freedom* – 7:00 PM

• 11/8: vs Unity Reed* – 7:00 PM

00:00:00-Intro 00:03:26-Osbourn Park 00:11:48-Unity Reed 00:16:56-Osbourn 00:22:35-Freedom 00:29:06-Gainesville 00:38:45-Patriot 00:45:12-Battlefield 00:55:11-Future Picks

The Gainesville Cardinals are entering their third varsity season with high hopes and determination under the steady leadership of head coach Daniel Bruton. Reflecting on last year, Bruton remarked, "Last season was a pivotal one for us. Finishing 8-2 and making the playoffs for the first time in school history showed how far we've come as a team."

Despite losing star running back Koven Smith early in the season, the Cardinals displayed resilience and depth, culminating in a memorable season. "Losing Koven was a tough blow, but it gave other players the chance to step up and make big plays," Bruton noted. The team’s historic playoff appearance, although cut short by Colonial Forge, has only fueled their ambition for the upcoming season.

Returning this year with a robust lineup, the Cardinals have eight defensive starters back, including four all-district players. "Our defense is anchored by some exceptional talent," said Bruton, highlighting Davidson commit Jeramy Stith on the defensive line. Offensively, the team returns seven starters, featuring Central Michigan commit Jack Smoot and a healthy Koven Smith. "Having Koven back at full strength is a game-changer for us," Bruton emphasized.

Quarterback Colton Kilmer, who dazzled last season with 2,600 passing yards and 700 rushing yards, is set to lead the offense again. "Colton is a dynamic player who can make plays with both his arm and his legs," Bruton said. With the offensive line largely intact, the Cardinals' offensive unit is expected to be a formidable force. However, filling the gaps left by key departures in the wide receiver and defensive back positions remains a priority.

"We lost some key players, but I'm confident in the young talent we have," Bruton asserted. Players like junior wide receiver Isiah Dougan, who already holds a Marshall offer, and sophomore defensive back Jackson Wrobel are poised to make significant contributions. The offseason has also been fruitful, with ten seniors eyeing college football opportunities and underclassmen like 2026 prospect Reed Hobbs catching recruiters' attention.

Bruton acknowledges the challenges ahead with a familiar schedule. "Every season is different, and every game is important," he stated. Key matchups against Patriot and Battlefield will be critical, but Bruton insists on a week-by-week focus, emphasizing consistent improvement and teamwork.

As the Cardinals prepare for the season, they aim to build on their successes from last year. With a blend of experienced seniors and promising young players, they have their sights set on another playoff run and possibly even greater achievements. "Our goal is to take it one game at a time and strive to be better each week," Bruton concluded.

Key Players

• Jack Smoot (OL, 6’4”, 290)

• Jeramy Stith (DL, 6’0”, 240)

• Colton Kilmer (QB, 6’2”, 212)

• Greg Davidson (TE, 6’5”, 215)

• JT Walker (DB/WR, 6’1”, 175)

• Koven Smith (RB, 5’9”, 180)

• Jayden Bell (LB/DB/RB, 5’11”, 185)

• Max Desir (LB, 6’0”, 200)

• Jaden Watts (LB, 5’8”, 185)

• Surat Gill (DL, 6’1”, 250)

• Carrington Knight (DL, 6’0”, 225)

• Aidan Washington (DL, 6’0”, 225)

• Adam Rodriguez (LB, 5’11”, 210)

• Reed Hobbs (OL, 6’6”, 290)

• Grayson Eisenhower (LB/WR, 6’0”, 180)

• Isiah Dougan (WR, 6’2”, 190)

• Evan George (OL, 6’1”, 300)

• Dylan Cherry (OL, 6’1”, 310)

• Kyan William (DB, 5’11”, 170)

• Eli Guzman (WR/DB, 5’8”, 145)

• Jackson Wrobel (DB/LB, 6’2”, 190)

• Vinnie Hill Jr (DB/WR, 5’11”, 150)

• Amari Ruth (WR/DB/RB, 5’10”, 160)