Jackson Academy began the 2021 season by hosting Starkville Academy in the seventeenth meeting between the two schools. The Raiders were trying to win their third straight against the Vols and sixteenth overall in the series history.

The Raiders won the coin toss and deferred their decision to the second half. Coach Lance Pogue sent his defense out on the field and they answered the call by logging one of three interceptions on the night. JA was unable to turn it into points as they were forced to punt. The defense continued to shine as they picked up the first points of the year by way of a safety because of pressure caused by Adams Kennedy. The two teams traded punts and turnovers until the Raiders finally got their first touchdown of the season as Tate Collins found JT Thigpen for a 20 yard touchdown to give JA a 9-0 halftime advantage.

The second half was an offensive explosion for the Raiders as they scored on five straight possessions while holding the Vols scoreless as they pitched their seventh shutout in the series. In the second half Marcus Harris scored from 37 yards away, Collins threw his second TD to CJ Banks, a 75 yard strike, Clayton White found Trey Adams for a 32 yard score and to cap the scoring Tate Collins showed his speed as he outran the Vols for an 85 yard TD.

JA moved their record to 1-0 while the Vols fell to 0-1.

Offensive leaders for the game for JA were Tate Collins as he ran the ball 10 times for 148yds and 1 TD. He also went 3-for-3 for 97 yards and 2 passing TDs. Marcus Harris had 13 carries for 112 yards and a TD. CJ Banks led the team with 3 catches for 75 yards and a TD. Merritt Nations had 2 receptions for 20 yards. Trey Adams and JT Thigpen both had TD grabs.

Defensive leaders for the game for JA were Max Walenta as he led the team with 8 tackles (6 solo) and 2 sacks. Adams Kennedy tallied 6 tackles (3 Solo), 1 sack, and a pass break up. Banks Whittington finished with 5 tackles (3 solo).

JA heads to Madden for the first road game of the year as they take on the defending 5A State Champion in Leake Academy at 7pm. Pregame on The Raider Network will begin at 6:40pm

(Pic courtesy of ie3Photo)

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