Marianna off to best since in more than a decade

MARIANNA, Fla. (WMBB) – The Marianna football team is off to its best start since 2012, ranked No. 8 in Class 2A and aiming for a perfect regular season.

The Bulldogs have started 5-0, with a marquee victory over Walton in week one and they’ve outscored their next four opponents 129 points combined.

Marianna senior quarterback, RJ Mayes said they’re looking to keep their foot on the gas.

“Not really taking time off, you know, basically just staying locked in and not letting other things distract us,” Mayes said. “Just really staying locked in, because we all got a goal, district champions, going 10-0, we all got a goal. So, just staying locked in.”

The well-rounded team is led by leading rusher, Amari Clemons. He averages 200 yards a game and already has 18 touchdowns. The junior has already received offers from major powerhouses such as Auburn, Ole Miss, Florida, and the list goes on.

Clemons said he knows he has a lot of eyes watching him each Friday night.

“I’ve got little brothers, little sisters, I’ve got big brothers and big sisters, I got little kids watching me, family, and everybody in the stands,” Clemons said. “I mean, I don’t want to fail in front of them. I don’t want to look like a bad person because I know everywhere I go, I’m a leader.”

The culture of this team is the core of its success. The focus outside of the football field extends to team Bible studies and continuing to push each other to achieve their highest potential.

“A lot of offseason work,” Mayes said. “Us working in the offseason and getting close with God, that’s the main thing. You know, we have Bible study every Wednesday night. But really, the weight room just chemistry is the main thing.”

While the Bulldogs have their eyes set on a state championship, Marianna Head Coach Jack Glover said they are focusing on winning one game at a time.

Marianna’s next game at Rutherford has been postponed from Friday, September 27, to Monday, September 30.

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