Davis, Marshall receive coveted accolade

If the talents he displayed as a sophomore are a proper gauge, Jalen Davis will be Junction City's next big-time playmaker.

This season, the Dragons encountered both highs and lows as the team consisted of mostly inexperienced personnel. However, coach David Carpenter was always confident that those young players would blossom and compete at a high level.

For the most part, that's what occurred as Junction City finished second in the 8-2A and advanced to round two of the state playoffs.

Davis starred as a member of a Dragon sophomore class which could be special.

When a play was needed, especially on offense, Davis evolved into a reliable option for Carpenter. "The sky's the limit for him – if he wants it," the coach said. "When you're blessed with speed and an ability to do a lot of things – you have to take advantage of it and improve upon those abilities."

Those talents which Carpenter lauded, helped Davis earn the accolade of News-Times Offensive Rookie of the Year.

An explosive athlete who gives maximum effort on every snap, Davis made his presence felt.

The 5-11, 170 pound sophomore was used as a receiver, running back, and quarterback.

Davis caught 15 passes for 428 yards and seven touchdowns. He had four carries, and one rushing touchdown.

Davis was also a factor on special teams as he returned seven punts, the longest of which was for 29 yards.

"He's a very elusive runner. When catching the ball as a receiver, he did a great job. Once he got his hands on the ball, he was able to do a lot of great things with it," Carpenter said. "With him on one side of the field and Tez Brown on the other, that spreads the field out. That makes the defense have to stretch because of the different things Jalen is able to do."

Defensively, Davis competed at safety.

He had 70 tackles, 31 of which were unassisted. Davis recovered three fumbles and intercepted one pass. His athletic ability and desire to engage in contact makes him the ideal safety, according to Carpenter.

"He doesn't mind the hitting part of the game," the coach said. "That's what you have to have from a safety. At least, that's what we must have in our defense."

Whether he's on offense, defense, or special teams, the Junction City coaching staff will expect plenty from Davis in forthcoming seasons.

"There's a lot more that we want him to do in order to improve. He's going to do it," Carpenter confidently stated. "He doesn't shy away from work. That's a good thing about him. He's a hard worker and the sky's the limit for him."