It had been three years since the 5a McMinn County Cherokees of Athens, TN have beaten the 6a Bradley Central Bears from Cleveland, TN. Thursday night August 22, they were able to get the victory. Many people contributed to the win, but #22 Tarzan White and #10 Jacob Sharp, who started the season with high expectations, made tough runs and catches to help the Tribe get the much needed victory.
It was a tale of two halves for the talented seniors. Sharp, who played mostly running back last year, was moved to slot receiver this year. He made some tough catches in a late second quarter drive. The drive would end in a touchdown that would put McMinn County up 13-6. In the game, Sharp would have 4 catches with a total of 32 yards.
Besides the receiver position, Sharp carries the ball in certain plays and he plays defensive back and returns kicks. All of which he did in the game against Bradley.
There would be concern with how well Tarzan might be able to perform this year, since his horrible knee injury in McMinn County’s final game last year. There was even a question of whether he would be able to play the entire year.
In Thursday’s game, he was back, and he ran hard. He ran for 67 yards with 20 carries. While Sharp’s play helped ensure that they took the lead at the end of the first half, White was able to pick up two first downs late in the 4th, to help secure the win over the Bears 16-13.
Both of these young men play tough every game. Whether they are asked to make plays with the ball in their hands, or to block for a teammate, they are willing to do what needs to be done for the Cherokees to be successful. Their character on and off the field, as well as the classroom is outstanding. These are the kinds of hard working, disciplined kids that coaches dream of having.
