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STAR CORRESPONDENT

In most weeks, there may be one or two players who stand out as the Player of the Week, but after Friday night’s game between Elizabethton and Grainger, it would be hard not to name the entire defensive unit as the Player of the Week for Elizabethton. A dominant performance by the defense resulted in several eye-popping stats.

Here is the breakdown of the Cyclone defensive effort:

• 45 yards of total offense allowed by the Grizzlies.
• Four Cyclone interceptions, with two returned for touchdowns.
• Four Cyclone sacks, including one for a safety.
• Allowed only 38 yards rushing on 22 attempts.

Head coach Shawn Witten said the defensive effort was tremendous and set the tone for the entire game.

Justius Wallin and Justin Whitehead each recorded a pick-six for Coach Shawn Witten’s defense, with Wallin’s interception coming just a few ticks into the contest, setting the tone for the remainder of the game.

Whitehead also had a receiving touchdown in the game.

Bryson Rowland added another interception, and although he didn’t score, his return set up an easy touchdown for the Cyclone offense.

Out of the four sacks, two were recorded by defensive end Riley Jones, who got the starting nod in place of injured senior Ben Adams. Jones’ sack of Grainger quarterback Ashton Taylor resulted in a safety with 1:20 remaining in the first half and led to another Cyclone score 21 seconds later.

Billy Woodby and Kyron Smalls recorded the other two sacks for Elizabethton.

Speaking of Smalls, the senior had a standout performance from the other defensive end spot, using his speed to create havoc in the Grizzlies’ backfield on several plays. Smalls is to the Cyclone football team what a utility player is to a baseball coach. Witten said Smalls’ motto is, “Coach, I will play any position,” as he has already played tight end, H-back, wide receiver, running back, and defensive end this season in just two games.

Congratulations to the Elizabethton Cyclone defensive unit for earning Player of the Week honors in their game against Grainger.