Backwoods Bar-B-Que
Backwoods Bar-B-Que is returning from Greenwood, SC- led by pitmaster Gene Culbertson alongside much of his family. Gene is the unofficial ringleader of cooks on the South Carolina Barbeque Association circuit and a mainstay at many of their sanctioned events. His quick wit and gregarious spirit will leave an impression, as will his winning BBQ. Year over year, Backwoods is ranked as one of the best in the state having competed for more than 20 years, and I am sure you will want make a stop at their spot to both taste the Q and meet Gene. It will be worth it!
Blazin’ Bullets Barbeque
This first team to register for this year’s event was Blazin’ Bullets Barbeque hailing from Hanahan, SC with Pitmaster Ken Hillard at the helm and Dawn Verbarg in the role of “Assistant of Quality Control.” Ken gave up his crime fighting days as a Secret Agent to cook BBQ just for you, or at least that’s what I’ve heard.
We CAN confirm that Blazin’ Bullets did great at last year’s BBQ, Blues, & Boos, placing 3rd in Butts and 2nd in Ribs, and is surely to be a top contender this year! For the South Carolina Barbeque Association overall state rankings last year they placed 4th in Butts and 2nd in Ribs. So don’t be surprised if they whip out some ninja moves and their secret agent sauce to make some perfect BBQ for you!
Butt Wrestling BBQ
These folks didn’t just wrestle with the idea of BBQ — they went all in, headlock and all. What started as a family pastime of tossing Boston butts on the smoker has turned into a full-blown backyard brawl with meat, smoke, and sauce. Matt Franklin and crew aren’t afraid to get messy, and if there were a championship belt for brisket, they’d already be strutting around in it.
Their ribs come with more swagger than a Memphis pitmaster on payday, and their pulled pork will pin you to your chair before you can ask for seconds. Sure, the name raises eyebrows — but after one bite, you’ll understand: this BBQ doesn’t just compete, it body-slams the competition.
Insure Your Butts
Introducing the Insure Your Butts BBQ Cook Team, a brand-new squad hailing from Barnwell, South Carolina. Comprising Davey Atkinson, Chad Lee, Andy Cone, Will Keel, and Belle Chaplin, these insurance professionals have recently ventured into the world of competitive barbecue. With their unique blend of insurance expertise and a newfound passion for the smoky arts, they bring fresh perspectives to the grill. Despite being newcomers, their commitment to mastering the art of BBQ and their shared enthusiasm have earned their place in the field, making their mark with each flavorful dish they create. Keep an eye on this exciting new team as they embark on their BBQ journey, armed with the proper liability coverage and a fiery dedication to the world of smoke and flavor.
They also apparently love to fish.
Men at Work BBQ
Men at Work BBQ, true to its name, is a labor of love brought to life by a group of dedicated individuals who have full-time jobs but an unyielding passion for the art of barbecue. Based in Easley, SC, this tight-knit team is led by the skilled Pitmaster Brian Roach, with invaluable support from his comrades Willie Duncan and Tiffany Roach. Despite their bustling work schedules, they’ve managed to master the art of smoking, grilling, and creating flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Men at Work BBQ embodies the spirit of barbecue enthusiasts who, driven by their love for great food and the camaraderie it fosters, have come together to create something truly special. Their dedication and expertise shine through in every mouthwatering bite, and their commitment to crafting exceptional barbecue is a testament to the power of their shared passion. So, whether they’re firing up the smoker after a long day at the office or preparing for a weekend barbecue competition, Men at Work BBQ is a testament to the enduring love for the pit and the delicious rewards it brings.
Monkey Bottom Boys
Monkey Bottom Boys hails from Kingstree, SC, led by George Ray. You can get their awesome Q on the SCBA circuit regularly, but if ever you’re in Turbeville, SC you gotta stop at their Restaurant Chat N Chew. Check out this plate, you can just taste it can’t you! George is always KILLING it in South Carolina Barbeque Association competitions often at the top of the ranks! One to watch every single year!
Rub Me Right BBQ
Rub Me Right BBQ, led by Pitmaster Terry Macomber, is a sizzling addition to the barbecue scene in Barnwell, SC. Terry’s journey in the world of smoked delights began in Florida, where he honed his craft and earned a reputation for creating some of the most mouthwatering barbecue around. Now, having relocated to Barnwell, Terry brings his expertise and a wealth of flavor-packed experience to the local community. His commitment to quality and innovation in the world of barbecue is evident in every succulent bite. From tender, perfectly smoked meats to his signature rubs and sauces, Terry’s creations are nothing short of a culinary delight. As a new addition to the Barnwell culinary landscape, Rub Me Right BBQ is poised to become a local favorite, offering a tantalizing taste of Terry’s passion for the pit and a warm Southern welcome to all who savor his exceptional barbecue.
S & M BBQ
Family-owned, fueled by smoke, and rocking the unforgettable motto “No One Beats Our Meat” since 2020 — S&M BBQ has been throwing down in the competition circuit and backing it up with catering that keeps plates licked clean.
They may be newer to the game, but don’t mistake that for inexperience. This crew rolls in with serious firepower, turning out pork, chicken, and ribs that make seasoned pitmasters nervous. Whether they’re feeding a crowd or chasing trophies, S&M BBQ brings bold flavor, plenty of attitude, and just enough sass to keep things interesting.
Sadie Beth Barbeque Company
Sadie Beth is a new team on the South Carolina Barbeque Association circuit based in Edisto Beach, SC led by Gage Blue and his wife Sadie Beth. Last year was their first year of competition, debuting at Cookin’ on the Creek event on Edisto Beach. They did really well for their first time out, placing 4th in Butts and 1st in Ribs, and during our event (their second competition ever) they placed 4th in Ribs. We doubt that was beginners luck, as they are currently sitting at 11th in the SCBA state rankings, and expect them to hustle to break that top 10. You can also expect them to bring their Halloween decor A game, they killed it last year!
Slinging Meat
Slinging Meat is a competition BBQ team from Florence, SC. Their team consists of three friends – David Smith, Josh Howle and Brice Ricker, who are also lawyers and business partners in the law firm – Smith Ammons Howle and Ricker, LLC, with offices in Florence and Summerville.
They are a relatively new team, having just gotten their start in April 2022. After that first South Carolina Barbeque Association competition, they were hooked and started buying trailers, smokers and other equipment. They love competing and making new friends with a love for BBQ, but make no mistake they are aiming for a name call. Currently sitting at 9th in the State SCBA rankings they are aiming to move up in the top ten. Make sure to come by their camp at this year’s event and try some of the meat they are slinging!
Smokin’ Sistas
The Smokin’ Sistas, a fresh and formidable cooking team, hailing from the culinary legacy of Barnwell, SC, are set to make their mark in the world of barbecue. Comprising the talented trio of Janet Hamel, Julie Lackey, and Lynn Little, this team’s roots run deep in the restaurant industry, having had a significant hand in building the renowned Anthony’s Restaurant in their hometown. With a rich culinary upbringing, their dad imparted the art of grilling and smoking, passing down a treasured family tradition. Now, these passionate sisters are ready to showcase the skills they’ve honed under their father’s guidance and are determined to make him proud. With a burning desire to bring home victory in their dad’s honor, the Smokin Sistas are a force to be reckoned with, driven by their love for barbecue and the legacy that inspired it. Watch out for this dynamic trio as they carry the torch forward, representing not only their family but also the delicious traditions of Southern barbecue.
Smokin’ Verdicts
When the Alexanders step out of the courtroom and into the cook-off, objections are overruled and the only briefs they care about are the ones wrapping their ribs. Smokin’ Verdicts isn’t just a clever name — it’s a promise: every rack, butt, and brisket they serve is guilty of being downright delicious.
They run their pits with the same precision they bring to the courtroom, and the evidence is undeniable — tender meat, bold smoke, and flavor that always wins on appeal. Competitors beware: the jury of your taste buds has already reached a unanimous decision.
Tail-Gater Hater
Tail-Gater Hater is a team based in Lake City, SC with pitmasters Phillip Miles and Dennis Caraway. They have been crowned grand champions in the state in BOTH Butts & Ribs with South Carolina Barbeque Association 3 years in a row and they are aiming for a 4peat as they currently sit in the state rankings at 1st in BOTH Butts & Ribs! While their name wasn’t called this past year at BBQ, Blues, & Boos, they will certainly be bringing their A game with some serious Q coming from this hit making duo.
What A Pit BBQ
What A Pit BBQ hails from Columbia, SC, Led by Pitmaster Jerome Furnace alongside his brother Reggie Furnace. YES they have the PERFECT last name as BBQ Pitmasters! They had a respectable 5th place finish in Butts during last year’s fest, particularly considering their setup was simply a tent and their smoker. They are testament to the fact that you don’t need a fancy rig to make incredible BBQ! Last year they also secured People’s Choice award for serving some absolutely killer Grits & Grillades dish that folks are STILL talking about.
We are expecting something magical from these two killer chefs, and we are looking forward to also having more of the family with us this year as Angelia Furnace will be serving up some tasty Lemonade as well!
