Defenses unsung heroes for Rams, Silver Foxes

Hemmingway’s Rashawn Smalls (46) tries to get around Lamar’s Jabri Johnson during Friday’s Class A Division I lower state championship game at Donald R. Poole Stadium. The Silver Foxes play Chesterfield today for the Class A Division I state championship.

By: By Justin Driggers | SCNow
Published: November 27, 2009

It’s hard to remember the last time two Class A teams played for a state championship with as much firepower on offense as Lamar and Chesterfield will likely bring to the field today.
The high-octane passing attacks have produced a combined 6,162 yards and 71 touchdowns entering today’s Division I title tilt at S.C. State in Orangeburg.
But with all the talent on offense, it’s easy to overlook the fact that both defenses have had stellar years as well.
The Rams and Silver Foxes’ defenses rank in Class A’s top four in total points allowed this season. Chesterfield is first with 53 points allowed and Lamar is fourth with 132.
“It’s a special group we have, no doubt about it,” Chesterfield coach Steve Taneyhill said.
“They really took it upon themselves this season that no matter what the offense did, they were going to do everything to keep other teams from scoring.”
And eight times this season, that’s exactly what the Rams did. Chesterfield recorded eight shutouts, including six in a row.
“I think the leadership and the experience we have on the defense were big keys,” Rams defensive lineman Moon Edwards said. “We don’t let positive things get us too high or negative things get us too low.
“We play the same way every down.”
Edwards leads the team with eight sacks. Combined with Brandon Williams and David Ratliff, the trio has 22 sacks and 51 tackles for a loss.
But the Rams aren’t the only ones who know how to keep teams off the scoreboard. The Silver Foxes recorded two shutouts this season, and allowed just one score in six other games.
“They’ve really stepped up this season, especially in the latter part of the season,” Lamar coach J.R. Boyd said. “We started running pursuit drills the middle of the season, and they’ve really responded in every game since.”
Lamar has been opportunistic on defense to say the least. The Silver Foxes have forced 13 fumbles and 19 interceptions, setting up the offense for a quick strike numerous times.
“We try to put pressure on the opposing quarterback and we try to force mistakes,” Lamar defensive back Eric Daney said. “We’re an aggressive, attacking defense. We’re looking to score on every play, too.”
Daney and Jerrod Dargan lead the team with five interceptions apiece. The Silver Foxes have also racked up 12 sacks, led by Johnny Dowdy’s three.

Defenses unsung heroes for Rams, Silver Foxes

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