Trio still trying to lift wings of Eagles
Georgia Southern has struggled to a 3-5 record under first-year coach Brian Vangorder. The Eagles play in an extremely tough conference and usually get their opponents' best effort because of their history of success at the NCAA 1-AA level.
The Georgia Southern offense is led by former Evans and Lincoln County high school quarterback Travis Clark. The 6-foot-1, 215-pound sophomore has started all eight games for the Eagles. He has completed 120 of 224 passes (53.6 percent) for 1,490 yards and seven touchdowns. with a passer rating of 117.9. He has also helped the Eagles offense average 28 points per game this season.
One of Clark's reserve wideouts is Harlem High graduate Tim Camp. Camp has caught five passes for 40 yards this season, and when the Georgia Southern offense stumbles, former Greenbrier standout Dan Jordan punts them out of trouble. Jordan averages 39.7 yards per punt, and 15 of his 48 punts have been downed inside the 20-yard line.
Maybe this trio can help Georgia Southern make a strong push to close out the season.
McKinney excels
Former Augusta Christian Schools standout Adam McKinney spent his high school career at quarterback. Now the 6-3, 228-pound sophomore is chasing down quarterbacks at Presbyterian College.
When McKinney was recruited, it was common knowledge that Presbyterian liked him as a linebacker. However, the Blue Hose moved him to defensive end, and the move has been a smashing success.
Despite being injured earlier this season, McKinney has come on strong lately. He has played in eight games, starting five, and has made the most of his opportunity. Despite missing some time, he is among the team leaders with 37 tackles, including 6.5 for loss. He also leads the team with five sacks. His recent play is a big reason the Blue Hose are 6-3 this season, including three straight wins.
One opponent's broadcaster called McKinney "Presbyterian's version of Patrick Kerney." Kerney is a star defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons. High praise for sure, but completely deserved based on McKinney's play of late.