The numbers were placed next to Brayden Huebner's named in the box score for Leroy's dominating 42-20 victory over Pickens County in the AHSAA Class 1A state championship game at Jordan-Hare Stadium.
The credit, though, was thrown in a different direction by Leroy head coach Jason Massey.
"Got to give credit where credit is due," Massey said. "The offensive line has carried us through the playoffs, and we wouldn't be here without them. They helped Brayden through a tough season."
Huebner carried the football 28 times for 270 yards with touchdown runs of 81, 33, 16, 1 and 1 yards. His five touchdowns tied a Class 1A championship game record. Overall, he had 336 of his team's 392 yards in offense.
"I'm thankful for the linemen for making it easy on me. They helped me out a lot," Huebner said.
In the first half, Huebner had three touchdown runs, and Taylor Crumedy added another on a 13-yard run. Leroy led 26-0 at halftime.
Another big part of the Bears' success was an incredible defensive effort. Pickens County ran 48 plays during the game and gained 262 yards, most of which came after the Tornados fell into a big hole.
"They executed," Massey said. "Defense has played well all year, and we were able to force some turnovers and put points on the board at key times."
Pickens County quarterback Demarkis Giles was 8 of 18 passing for 152 yards with two touchdowns and three interceptions. The Tornados managed 110 yards on 30 carries.
Michael Williams, the head coach of Pickens County, has been to a pair of championship games and three semifinals in his five seasons. He has yet to win a state championship. Overall, the program is 1-4 in championship game appearances, with the victory coming in 2013.
"The message now is to keep your foot on the pedal," said Williams, a former tight end at the University of Alabama and the NFL. "The past eight years, we've been to the semifinals or more, so we have a set a standard, and we will keep fighting for it. I promise you. We will get it."
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email steve.irvine@1819news.com.
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