After an impressive 2024 season that saw South Harrison win eight games, their best record since 2017, the Hawks are looking to build on that momentum despite a close playoff loss to Bluefield. Coach Brett Hathaway emphasized the need to find new linemen, particularly tackles, to replace departed players, though returning interior linemen Charles Langford and Wyatt Koontz provide a solid base. Langford noted confidence in the younger players stepping up. Even with the departure of all-state running back Jaden Hatfield, the Hawks are optimistic about their returning skill players, including Zane Harlow, who rushed for 637 yards and seven touchdowns last season, and Shepard Paugh, who is expected to see more touches. Quarterback Christopher Pedraza also returns after a sophomore season with ten total touchdowns. South Harrison plans to continue with a run-heavy offense, utilizing both stick-I and pistol formations for diversity. The Hawks face a challenging second-half schedule with five playoff teams from last year, but Hathaway believes the team is motivated to push past being "right there" and make their third playoff appearance in four seasons.