Players earn Big Country distinctions
By Sam Waller
Postseason honors keep pouring in for the Albany Lions football team with six players recognized on the Abilene Reporter-News’ All-Big Country team.
Running back Jaheim Newton was named Player of the Year on the publication’s Class 2A team and earned a first-team spot on the Super Team, which includes players from all classifications.
“Obviously, when people recognize Jaheim for being the best Class 2A player in the Big Country, that’s a great honor for him, and shows the respect he has as a football player,” Lions head coach Denney Faith said. “More than anything, I’m just proud of the kind of kid that he is. He’s very humble and probably embarrassed by the award.”
Offensive lineman Zane Waggoner was named Class 2A Newcomer of the Year and was joined by fellow lineman Monte Cauble on earning first-team honors on the 2A team and second-team spots on the Super Team.
Linebacker Brooks Neece was another double honoree, earning first team on both the 2A and Super Team.
Quarterback Cole Chapman and defensive end Taren Farmer were both second-team picks on the 2A squad.
The six were central figures in Albany’s 13-1 season, which included the District 8-2A Division II championship and a run to the state semifinals.
“We were very well represented, and I’m proud of all of those guys for the sacrifices they made to continue the tradition that we have,” Faith said, “That shows the respect that people have for our program.”
Newton topped 1,000 yards for the third consecutive season, rushing for 1,628 yards and 21 touchdowns on 156 carries.
Neece anchored the Lion defense with 56 solo tackles, 96 assists, 21 tackles for loss, one sack, five QB hurries, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, an interception, and five pass breakups.
Waggoner, a tackle, graded out at 96 percent with 38 pancakes.
Cauble graded out at 94 percent with 29 pancakes.
Chapman completed 134 of 224 passes for 2,314 yards with 32 TDs. He also rushed for 745 and nine TDs.
Farmer recorded 73 solo tackles, 65 assists, 28 tackles for loss, 8½ sacks, eight quarterback hurries, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery, and an interception.
