Jets running back Maceo Booker (21) runs for a big gain in the first quarter against East Limestone. (Record Photo/Nick Sellers)

By Nick Sellers | Staff Writer

MADISON – In one final tune-up game before regular-season action begins on Aug. 28 against Athens, James Clemens looked ready for action as the Jets rushed to a 23-0 lead at the end of the first quarter and led 30-6 at halftime, which would also be the final decision.

Fourth-year starter at quarterback, Heath Burchfield, went to Torolla Walker on the first two passes of the game for gains of 12 and 15 yards. Walker, whom head coach Wade Waldrop singled out as a difference maker at receiver for 2015, finished with here catches for 33 yards in less than one half of play.

Burchfield, who was pulled in the middle of the second quarter along with most of the other offensive starters, finished 6-for-10 for 125 yards and one touchdown.

His lone touchdown came on a 40-yard rainbow to senior Marquis Mitchell, who is in his first year playing football for the Jets. Mitchell has primarily made his name on the basketball court as one of the stars for James Clemens.

“We’ve got five or six receivers who can all catch the ball and they’re all going to play,” Waldrop said. “If we throw the ball to Marquis we expect him to catch it, same as everybody.”

Sophomore running back Devon Atkinson led the team with 71 yards off of eight rushes and a 10-yard scoring run in the first quarter. He added a 14-yard touchdown run with 2 minutes left in the first quarter.

“He’s worked hard,” Waldrop said of Atkinson’s offseason. “He’s got as much talent as anybody I’ve ever coached. He keeps picking up on what we’re going to do and keeps working really hard.”

The Jets continue to break in the offensive line, which is entirely composed of new starters. The front five was good enough to give senior Maceo Booker space for a 29-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

“They’re improving,” Waldrop said. “Compared to when that group walked off the group in the spring. They’ve made some strides and need to make some more.”

On defense, Monty Rice, Daevion Davis and Tony Kahle were credited with 3.5 tackles each. Kahle, Sterling Fisher and James Macklin had one interception.

Decatur transfer Michael Sharpley, defensive lineman, was credited with a tackle-for-loss that ended up in a safety in the first quarter.

The Jets travel to play Class 6A Athens on Aug. 28. James Clemens defeated the Golden Eagles 37-30 to open play last year.