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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

Maplesville High School’s Michael Gee is this week’s athlete of the week for Sept. 20-26 following his performance against Autauga Academy on Sept. 20. Gee was a stud on the Red Devils’ defense all game and started it by recovering a fumble by the visitors on their opening drive. He was able to get to the ball carrier and quarterback throughout the contest recording four tackles and a sack.

However, when Maplesville needed a play the most, Gee stepped up to the plate. Autauga Academy got the ball back with just under four minutes left in the game trailing 21-20. They were able to work their way down the field and into Maplesville territory as time ticked under 30 seconds. When the Autauga Academy quarterback rolled out to look for a receiver downfield, Gee was able to track him down from behind and force a fumble that was recovered by Maplesville to give them the win, and preserve their spot atop the Class 1A Region 4 standings.

 

Honorable mention: Kaden Cotton, Billingsley High School

Billingsley High School’s powerful running back posted his third 200-yard rushing effort of the season with 243 yards on 10 carries in the Bears’ 43-18 win over Autaugaville High School. Cotton punched in four scores, and was a direct beneficiary after a formation change to a run heavy set by head coach Lanny Jones and the coaching staff in the game.

 

Jaxson Kelley & Hayden Wilson, Verbena High School

Verbena High School witnessed a joyful sight in their 48-0 win over Ellwood Christian Academy — passing. The Red Devils’ and head coach Allen Brothers have been trying to build up their passing attack all season to pair with their potent running game, and their biggest strides were made on Sept. 20 against Ellwood. Quarterbacks Jaxson Kelley and Hayden Wilson were both nearly perfect in the game with Wilson going 17-for-22 passing for 192 yards and three touchdowns. Kelley made his opportunities count as well, going 5-for-5 for 42 yards and two touchdowns.