Mavericks show grit, flash against Halls
Anderson County freshman quarterback J.D. Gillum looks for an open receiver during the Mavericks’ preseason scrimmage against Knox Halls last Friday evening. (photo:Dwane Wilder )
It marked the first contact action of the year for two programs with lofty expectations this fall.
Anderson County, which went 11-2 last season, and Halls, which finished 8-4, used the 10-play pod format during the sweltering summer evening.
Making his padded debut, freshman quarterback John David Gillum — son of Mavericks Head Coach Davey Gillum — wasted no time making an impression.
He went 5-for-5 on Anderson County’s first offensive series. He tossed two touchdown passes, first hitting Keshawn Mills on the ninth play, then connecting with Zach Happney on the 10th for another score.
The Red Devils responded with defensive pressure during the Mavericks’ second offensive series, recording three sacks. Still, Gillum managed to go 3-for-4 through the air, and transfer running back Jayzon Thompson — formerly of Bearden — broke free for a 35-yard gain. That drive, however, ended without points.
The Mavs’ third offensive possession stalled due to penalties and more defensive stops by Halls. Gillum still managed another big play, finding senior receiver Evan Pyatt on a 40-yard strike.
On defense, Deameion Leavell, a former standout at both Bearden and Clinton, recorded an interception.
Coach Gillum said he was pleased with his team’s first live showing.
“It went well,” he said. “Our kids played hard, played physical and played aggressive.
“For our first scrimmage, we had some logistical issues that we need to clean up, but that’s expected” he said. “As far as effort and player production, I was very pleased.”
He praised his defense in particular.
“We were really good most of the night,” Gillum said. “We had three coverage busts, and those were the only three plays out of 40 where they had any success. Team speed and physicality on ‘D’ were definitely things we can build on.”
He also saw glimpses of offensive firepower.
“We showed signs of being extremely explosive,” he said. “We need to be more consistent in our execution, but I believe that will improve each week.
“When we get everything cleaned up, we could be special. Overall, there’s plenty to be excited about. The issues we have to fix are all in our control.”
