James Clemens defense swarms Buckhorn running back Will Ignont for a loss. (Record Photo/Nick Sellers)

By Nick Sellers | Staff Writer

NEW MARKET – With the win over Buckhorn (3-1, 2-1) Friday night and Bob Jones’ loss to Gadsden City, James Clemens (3-1, 2-1) has found itself tied with its cross-town rival and Huntsville High for second place in 7A, Region 4.

It didn’t come without a gritty victory, however, with the offensive firepower again coming from junior running back Maceo Booker. Booker accounted for all three of the Jets’ touchdowns.

“I felt a little offended that they scheduled us for homecoming so I took it a little personal, and I felt like I put the team on my back,” Booker said.

True, Booker did his part to spoil Buckhorn’s homecoming game. He reached 179 yards off of 27 carries and added 61 yards receiving from quarterback Heath Burchfield. One of those passes went for 18 yards and a touchdown towards the end of the first quarter.

Two of Jets kicker Will Grochowski’s extra points were blocked. Burchfield was called for grounding in the end zone in the second half, which led to a safety, Buckhorn’s only points in the second half.

A pivotal moment came with just over two minutes left in the game. James Clemens had fourth down with less than a yard to go in its own territory up 19-16. After a timeout, the Jets gave it to Booker, who rumbled ahead three yards to gain a fresh set of downs and essentially seal the win.

“There’s no doubt we were going to do it,” said James Clemens coach Wade Waldrop. “It was just a matter of having the right call. We have complete confidence in our offensive line and Maceo.”

After trailing at halftime 14-13, the Jets outscored Buckhorn 6-2 in the second half, keeping dual-threat quarterback Jamar McDonald and running back Will Ignont at bay.

Two of Buckhorn’s drives ended in the red zone due to fumbles. The latter turnover was pounced on by Logan Stenberg, who saw time on the defensive line. The resulting drive was the one that iced the game.

James Clemens travels to take on 7A, Region 3 opponent Mountain Brook Sept. 26.