As Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) gears up for the 2024 football season, the Rams are eager to build on their offensive momentum with new offensive coordinator Glen Reese at the helm. After a 4-6 overall record in 2023, the team is focused on turning close losses into wins and making a strong push for a championship.
WSSU head coach Robert Massey expressed optimism about the upcoming season, emphasizing the continuity and enhancements in the offensive strategy. WSSU averaged 26.7 points per game, first in the CIAA South and third overall in the conference. But that growth led to another opportunity for offensive coordinator Chris Barnette.
“We lost coach Barnette to Alabama State, but we promoted coach Reese to maintain our offensive attack,” said Massey. “We believe we have a talented quarterback in Daylin Lee who can lead us to compete for a championship.”
Glenn Reese, who previously served as the wide receivers coach, is stepping into his new role with a deep understanding of the team’s offensive scheme. He likes what he sees in Lee, who threw for 18 touchdowns to just six interceptions as a true freshman in 2023.
“I think what I bring is just the knowledge of the overall scheme of what we’ve done for years,” Reese said. “Our passing game took a significant step forward last year, and we’re looking to build on that success.”
WSSU has bolstered its roster through the transfer portal, bringing in key players to enhance both the offense and defense.
“We added Tralon Mitchell, a running back from Virginia Tech, who we expect to take some pressure off Daylin,” noted Massey. “On defense, we brought in young linebackers and beefed up our line to stop the run late in games.”
With the season opener against Bluefield State approaching on August 31st, the coaching staff is focusing on conditioning and preparing returning players who were injured last year.
“The first day of camp wasn’t bad,” Massey said. “We did a lot of conditioning to get everyone in shape. With most guys returning, especially those who were injured last year, we’re optimistic about our progression.”
Reese is also excited about the competition and depth in the wide receiver and running back positions.
“We have a good core of receivers who gained valuable experience last year,” Reese said. “We’ve created a competitive environment where everyone is grinding every day. In the running back room, we’ve done the same to ensure everyone is working hard to earn and keep their spots.”
The combination of a quickly-blossoming quarterback, strategic new additions, and a renewed focus on offensive and defensive execution will be needed as the Rams face a tough schedule that includes the five CIAA programs picked to finish in front of it.