Setting The Pace: The Week That Was in Tennessee

Written By: Jay Pace (@TheRealJayPace)

Roman Eulo’s big night propelled Walker Valley to an easy 28-3 win over Cleveland on Thursday night.  Winners of seven consecutive season openers, the Mustangs have also claimed two of the last three against Cleveland. 

Defending II-AAA champion McCallie looked the part in Nashville on Friday night, beating Lipscomb Academy 56-20.

Quarterback Eli Drapeau led a balanced & productive Blue Tornado offense that accounted for 545 yards. Drapeau threw for 170 yards and 3 TDs while RB Xavier Fillson churned out 111 yards and a touchdown to pace the ground game. 

Lipscomb Academy quarterback JC White had a big night, throwing for 359 yards and two touchdowns in a losing effort.

Alcoa 28  Maryville 21

Known as “The Battle of Pistol Creek,” this is one of the best high school football rivalries in the country.

And Friday night in Alcoa proved why as yet another memorable chapter in this iconic rivalry unfolded before our eyes.

Thomas Manu made sure of that.  

The former Maryville quarterback, who is now the starter at Alcoa, lifted the Tornadoes to a dramatic come from behind win in the most thrilling of fashions.

Manu’s late game heroics lifted Alcoa to a 28-21 heart stopping win in his first game as the Alcoa starter. His numbers weren't gaudy, 16 of 20 for 187 yards and two touchdowns. But it was his ability to extend drives and eat up lots of clock that proved the difference.

What a player. What a game. What a night. 

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