James Clemens heading to playoffs

Travis Ware (57) and the rest of the offensive line block as Devon Atkinson (1) gains a few yards for the Jets. (RECORD PHOTO/CHARLEY GAINES)

By Charley Gaines

For the Record

MADISON – The James Clemens Jets finished their regular season Thursday night with a win over Hamilton 41-7, but it wasn’t the clean defeat the team has gotten used to this season.

“The lack of focus and the penalties were very disappointing,” head coach Wade Waldrop said. “We had a couple of things this week that distracted us and it showed tonight.”

The team’s fire didn’t flare on the field as it has for the majority of the season as friends, family, fans and viewers around Alabama watched the televised game. Despite a lack of their normal drive, the team did still take charge at Madison City Schools Stadium.

Devon Atkinson (1) cranked out 20 rushes in his usual machine-like manner, resulting in 143 total yards and three touchdowns. Joseph Arias (10) also shown throughout the game as he stepped in as starting quarterback for the third game of the season.

As a whole the team lacked their full luster, but the defense, even with penalties that set them back throughout the game, played with strength.

“I’ve been coaching for 15 years, this is my tenth year as a head coach,” said Waldrop. This is by far the best defensive football team I’ve ever had.”

Monty Rice (6) led the defense with one interception, seven tackles, two assists and a forced fumble that was run into the end zone for a Jets touchdown by John Jenkins (49).

Coach Waldrop said he’s looking forward to the next week as they prepare for their game against Hewitt-Trussville. He said the penalties and lack of focus were a disappointment in Thursday’s game, but it’s “a good teaching point as you move forward about handling the things you can control.”