Season is looking good for gridiron boys
It's early, but several county players' performances have stood out through the first few weeks of the football season. It seems as though each team has had a surprise player step in and play a key role. Here's a look at the players who are the early leaders for All-County honors:
Evans High School
Kevin Millward - No surprise here. The junior quarterback has an array of great targets to throw to, and the line has done a good job of giving him time to throw. He is better known as the area's best punter, but he is a solid quarterback as well.
Trey Henderson - He's a newcomer to the team who is paying immediate dividends. He had an interception and a touchdown catch in the Knights' victory over Lakeside.
Jonathan Nicely - Like Millward, Nicely was expected to be a key to the Knights' success. The 6-foot-4-inch junior wide receiver has been good so far, and with his ability, the sky is the limit.
Greenbrier High School
Dylan Turner - The 6-foot-2-inch, 240 pounder is only a sophomore, but his ability is hard to miss. He could be a major recruit in two years. The only question is what position will he play. He is capable of being a tight end, fullback, linebacker, defensive lineman or offensive lineman.
Freddie Jones - Three touchdowns in the 'Pack's big win over Lakeside is impressive. The passing game should open things up for him all season.
Quarterback Nick Richards and wide receiver Anthony Williams also have been fun to watch in the passing game. Both should have big statistical years for the 'Pack.
Lakeside High School
Patrick Tynan - The Panthers have struggled on offense, but the defense has been pretty good. We all knew about defensive lineman Jermel Bennett, but linebacker/fullback Tynan is the guy I have been most impressed with. This kid has that "motor" you hear scouts talk about.
Defensive back John Arena also has been solid in the secondary.
Harlem High School
Mike Leverett - Maurice Dorsey is the linebacker everyone talked about in the preseason, but Leverett has stolen some of his thunder early. He harassed Aquinas quarterback Mike Cardwell all night last weekend and finished with three sacks.
Barry St. John and Brendan Gray - The senior duo has been churning out yards at a high rate again this season (yawn, what's new?). These two could contend for Columbia County Player of the Year.
Augusta Christian Schools
Tyler Bourdo - The starting quarterback seems to have taken over where Lee Banks left off last year. He's probably better at the option than Banks and can fight for extra yardage after the initial hit.
Taylor Hensley - The success coming from tailback Kyle Meeks and wide receiver Josh Whitaker was expected, but on defense, Taylor Hensley has made his presence felt. The senior has produced a bone-crushing hit more than a few times this season and has made quarterbacks think twice about tucking the ball and running.