Photos Andy Calvert
The Rockmart season in 23-24 could be described as nothing less than legendary. Biff Parson’s squad finished with a 12-3 record, with losses to cross-county rivals Cedartown, a surprise to many in Dalton, and then in the state championship, lost a heartbreaking 3 OT thriller to Pierce County 48-45. In the region, they won each contest by an average of 42 points.
“We want to be playing in week 15 every year,” said Parson, in regards to his team’s goals and expectations year in and year out. “We are a young team this year, but we have set the bar high and aim to keep it there.”
Much like most of the teams this year in Northwest Georgia, youth seems to be a cornerstone piece for many. The Jackets do not have a single senior on the offensive line, but make up for it in size, with many of their guys having off-the-charts potential based on their physical stature and ability.
“Our backfield is full of kids who probably have a combined 12 carries in their career,” says Parson. “However, in spite of this, summer has been a success, and we feel like we are moving in the right direction. Every position is putting in the work.”
The offense and defense remain stingy at Rockmart, as always.
“We are who we are, we play free and fast,” says Parson.
When you win each region game by an average of a whopping 7 touchdowns, that style of play is obviously paying dividends.
At Rockmart, skill is never an issue. Wideout, Tristan Anderson holds numerous Division 1 offers and has been a major piece for the Jackets the past few years, racking up 13 touchdowns this past year. However, Parson pointed out a few other names to keep an eye out for. A few of them were on the offensive and defensive line. Jaiden Thompson and Jy’Quice Mccrary are going to be valuable pieces of the trench crew, along with Noah King, who are all underclassmen yet stand around 6’2 280. Luke Parker, a transfer from Darlington, looks to take over QB duties. Sammy Brown is an upcoming senior, who looks to be a leader on the field. Gavin Green, Cortez Wright, and Jamyracle Hodges are some possible freshmen who could be 2-way players this fall. Upcoming junior Nate Davis is a linebacker who should make waves.
While there are some new faces, the ethos remains the same. The road to a state title is never easy, but Parson Yellow Jackets know what it takes to get there and are ready to get to work.
