Five local players were nominated for the Alabama High School Athletic Association Prep Spotlight for second round of the state football playoffs on Nov. 11.
Gadsden City junior running back Jaelyn Fleming rushed 22 times for 134 yards and a touchdown and caught four passes for 75 yards and a score in the Titans’ 29-28 Class 7A win over previously unbeaten Hewitt-Trussville. GCHS senior running back Damon Williams had 29 carries for 113 yards and caught a game-winning 15-yard touchdown pass with 3:10 remaining.
Hokes Bluff freshman running back Darrian Meads rushed 33 times for 131 yards and a touchdown as the Eagles beat North Jackson, 24-14, to secure a quarterfinal berth in the Class 4A playoffs for the first time since 2004. Teammate Landon Johnson completed 8-of-15 passes for 101 yards and two scores.
Etowah senior defensive back Malik Wilson finished with 16 tackles, two fumble recoveries and an interception in the Blue Devils’ 42-30 Class 5A loss to Mortimer Jordan.
Area football players recognized
