Canes Impressive in Region Opener

The Jasper County-Monticello High School football began its 2020 region schedule on the right foot last Friday in Macon.

The Hurricanes (2-3 overall, 1-0 in Region 3-AA) defeated Southwest-Macon 36-22 behind another gritty and determined performance.

“We feel really good about the win,” coach Rydell Jackson said. “I thought it was a great team effort. It all started last Monday in practice. We had a good week of preparation and it carried over into Friday night.”

The coach said his team played well both sides of the football. Defensively, Jasper County-Monticello limited the Patriots to just six first downs.

“The kids played hard and we were focused and excited to start region with a win,” Jackson said. “We are also appreciative of our fans last Friday night. We had more fans than they had. It was a case where we kept battling and good things happened.”

The strong effort defensively was even more impressive considering the Hurricanes were playing as many as four freshmen.

“I am proud of how this team has kept fighting,” Jackson said. “Many people are having to fill in at different spots but the players are stepping up and doing what it takes to get the job done.”

The team’s offensive line also had a strong night as each starter graded out with a passing mark. Playing in the trenches for Jasper County-Monticello were center Tyler Bartlett, right guard Dylan Robinson, right tackle Lee Gann, left guard Jackson Taylor and left tackle Nolan McMichael.

“Our offensive line looked more aggressive,” Jackson said. “We can still improve in some areas om both lines of scrimmage but we definitely had strong efforts last week. I am proud of how our linemen played.”

The play of the offensive line helped clear the way for another big performance by Shamarian Greene. The junior rushed for 150 yards on 35 carries with two touchdowns last week.

Greene now has 456 yards on the ground for the 2020 season with six scores.

Quarterback Mac Barton was 4-of-8 for 95 yards and two touchdowns.

Defensively, Jacarion Grier had six total tackles including four solo stops and two assists with a tackle for a loss. Freshman Brandon Ridley had 11 total tackles (four solo and seven assists).

Cedrion Stone added four solo tackles and three assists in the win against Southwest.

Up next for the Hurricanes will be a home region contest against Bleckley County High School this Friday.

The Royals have played well in 2020 and are 4-1 overall coming into the contest with a 1-0 record in 3-AA. Bleckley County defeated Dodge County 38-33 last week.

To this point in the season, the Royals lone setback came in a one-point loss to Wilcox County on Sept. 11.

In 3-AA, Jasper County-Monticello, Bleckley County and Washington County each opened region play with wins.

Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Hurricane Stadium.

“They will be a fundamentally sound football team,” Jackson said. “They are a power running team and like to utilize a run-pass option. They have good players up front. I feel like if we come out and execute our schemes then we should be fine. We have to limit their big plays and make them drive the football.”

The Hurricanes have been able to rebound from a tough start to the season and post back-to-back victories. More importantly, the team is 1-0 in region.

“We are gaining more confidence,” Jackson said. “We could see that last Friday. The kids don’t let anything get them down. We are still going to be short-handed but we will substitute as many players as we can. Once you win it always makes a difference. I am proud of the coaches and players and everyone who is part of this team.”