TROJAN SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON ** DJ ABNAR **

DJ Abnar avoids a tackle by a Rickards defender in their match up at Gene Cox Stadium

Derrington "DJ" Abnar is an explosive running back that will blow you away with the how fast he hits the hole, and his speed once he gets into the open field. He is a north/south runner who spends very little time dancing around, and the coaches love that about him. He runs hard. He runs fast. He runs fearless. His 5'9" 175 frame is solid and his vision 20/20. We caught up with DJ to see how his recruiting was going.

Click here to see -> DJ Abnar Senior Highlights

Q. Let's start with your offers, who has offered you?
A. I have offers from Illinois, Iowa State, Southern Miss, NC State, Vanderbilt, Middle Tennessee State, FIU, FAU, Georgia State, and I just added Troy & Texas Tech.

Q. You have to be excited about Texas Tech...
A. Texas Tech can put up some points, anyone would be excited  about a program like that.

Q. Where have you schedule your visits to?
A. So far Southern Miss on the 20th of January and Middle Tennessee on the 13th.

Q. When talking to Texas Tech coaches, did you set up anything?
A. We have to look at the schedule to see when would be best.

Q. Which teams are you liking the most right now?
A. Southern Miss, Texas Tech, UNC and Miami if those two would offer.

Q. Are they showing interest?
A. Well, I been talking to the UNC coaches from time to time and my Dad just spoke to the Miami coaches while he was in Orlando watching my cousin Duke play for state.

Q. Now Duke Johnson from Norland is your cousin, has he put in a good word in for you with the Miami coaches?
A. He's committed there, I don't know how much weight his word has at the U, but I know that they know about me.

DJ Abnar finished his Senior season at Lincoln with 156 carries, nearly 1300 yards and 22 TDs.

CLICK HERE FOR -> DJ Abnar Senior Highlights

ANDRADES FIRST OFFICIAL VISIT - KENTUCKY

WR Raphael Andrades tries on a UK game jersey during his visit to Lexington, KY.

Tallahassee Lincoln Senior WR Raphael Andrades recently took an official visit to the University of Kentucky, and the results were very positive. It all started when Tee Martin came to Tallahassee to visit with UK committment Kadeem "Pancho" Thomas. Martin, while in town was going to stop by the Lincoln game to check out WR prospect Andrades. The Trojans faced arch rival Leon, and Raph put in a solid performance. The next morning Coach Martin called Andrades and offered him a scholarship.

Click here to see -> Raph Andrades Senior Highlights

 

Raph did not want to be preoccupied with his recruitment during the season, his sole focus was getting back to the State Finals. So when Lincoln's chance to defend their title ended Andrades started to focus on his future.

Q: What is one thing that is attractive to you about playing at Kentucky?
A: "Having the opportunity to play football in the SEC is big time. But having the opportunity to go to an SEC school and play right away that is also exciting"

Q: What about your chances of winning an SEC or even National Championship while at UK?
A: "The way the coaching staff is building the program, I can see some top recruits going to Kentucky to be a part of a great family atmosphere."

Q: But can you see UK winning?
A: "Yes. Coach Phillips has been a part of winning coaching staffs, and Coach Martin won the National Championship like in 98 or 99 so he knows how to win also. Kentucky will need to land just a few more top recruits."

Q: Will you be one of them?
A: "I like them a lot. I have a couple of personal things to take care of, but Kentucky is now high up there in my choices."

Q: Who else is in high your choices?
A: "Along with Kentucky, I have Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Illinois still, and Notre Dame if they offer."

Q: Tell me about Notre Dame.
A: "They came by my school, as soon as I got back from the Kentucky visit, and we set up an official visit for January 13th. They haven't offered me, but they want to show me what they have to offer."

Raphael finished a very solid Senior season with 42 catches, 800 yards, and 13 touchdowns. For his career at Lincoln, he finished with 105 catches, 1901 yards, and 28 TDs

 Click here to see -> Raph Andrades Senior Highlights

LINCOLN'S CHANCE TO REPEAT - DERAILED

Seniors QB Ronald Butler, RB DJ Abnar, WR Raphael Andrades
end their H.S. football careers for the Lincoln Trojan football team.

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times for the Lincoln Trojans Friday night. The best of times: Lincoln had just finished the season with a 9-1 after defeating cross-town rival Godby. Lincoln had an opportunity to move ahead in the 2011 playoffs by beating Fleming Island at home. Lincoln was one of the favorites to face a team from the southern region for a chance at a State Championship. But then came the worst of times. The Trojans were hurting a little. Out for this game was Junior LB James Hearns with a knee injury, out was Senior lineman & long snapper Wes Hawkins who suffered a broken leg in practice earlier in the week. And in came the Fleming Island Golden Eagles who didn't travel to Tallahassee to go home empty handed, which was noticeable from the opening drive. With about 6 minutes left in the first quarter the Eagle scored on a 22 yard touchdown run by Frantz Caudio. Fleming Island followed that up with a field goal early in the second. After another TD and FG (extra point was blocked) the Golden Eagles flew into halftime with a 19-0 leaving the Trojan crowd in dis-belief. On the second play of the third quarter Lincoln would find life when Ronald Butler would scamper 82 yards for a Trojan TD making the score 19-7. The defense stepped up and made a stopped, but on the ensuing possession Fleming Island's Jason Kindle picked off a Lincoln pass and took it 48 yards for a score. The Eagles would add 2 FGs and the Lincoln Trojans appeared to be losing all hopes of a chance at a repeat trip to Orlando with the score now 32-7. But on a 38 yard pass from Butler to Junior WR Reggie Davis, Lincoln cut the deficit to 32-14, however the Eagles responded with a 50 yard run by Caudio. With 2:09 left in the game Lincoln would battle and score on a 12 yard TD pass to Davis. Lincoln recovered the onside kick, and this time Butler found Senior WR Raphael Andrades for a 23 yard TD giving the Trojans new hope. With the score 39-27 (after a failed 2-point conversion), Lincoln would add a safety to the score. But it was too little, too late as the quest for a repeat came to a halt in this 2011 season. Fleming Island moves on to play First Coast in a rematch of a tough loss earlier in the season. Lincoln plagued by 7 turnovers ends it's season, but not without a BIG CONGRATULATIONS from the Lincoln Football Guy.

LINCOLN vs FLEMING ISLAND - PLAYOFFS ROUND 1 PREVIEW

TALLAHASSEE LINCOLN TROJANS

                                                                   vs

FLEMING ISLAND GOLDEN EAGLES

The Fleming Island Golden Eagles are travelling to Tallahassee to face the Lincoln Trojans making this the longest distance that they've travelled so far this year. This is a trip that they will gladly make because it means that they've made it to the playoffs. However, now we get to the part of the season that is tough on most people (players, coaches, parents, teachers, faculty, staff, alumni & fans)... it is a win or go home situation. This means that at the end of this night, your season could be is over. Neither of these teams is ready to face that reality, but one of them must.

Fleming Island rolls into this game on a four game winning streak. They had a very close game against First Coast, and would love nothing more than to have the opportunity to face them again in the second round of these playoffs. In the air the Golden Eagles have a first year starter in Senior QB Dante Roberts who is a transfer from Palatka, and is the cousin of the primary receiver #8 Brontell Roberts. On the ground, the duties are split between #46 Kent Minor and #19 Frantz Caudio. One of the most dangerous players on the field is #5 DB/KR/PR Craig Brodsky. This kid has really good speed, has great vision, and great anticipation in the secondary. He is a natural playmaker that the Trojans must look out for. Brodsky is committed to Elon College, but has recently received an offer from Air Force. For Fleming Island to win this game, they must play solid defense against Lincoln's high powered, quick strike offense. The Golden Eagles cannot turn the ball over on offense, and they must control the time of possession and keep Lincoln's defense on the field.

Wesley Hawkins to miss the
playoff with a broken leg.

The Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans are coming into this game after a big win against a cross-town rival. The Trojans are led by Senior QB Ronald Butler (23 TDs/2 ints), Senior RB DJ Abnar (1300 yds/22 TDs), Senior WR Raphael Andrades (750 yds/12 TDs), and Junior WR/KR/PR Reggie Davis one of the most dangerous returners in the state if not the nation. Lincoln is trying to repeat as State Champions in arguably the toughest class in the State of Florida this year Class 7A. But Lincoln will be without Senior lineman and long snapper Wesley Hawkins who broke his leg (Tibia & Fibula) on Tuesday and had surgery on Wednesday. In order for the Trojans to win this ball game, they must win the special teams battle as this is the best special teams match up that they have seen all year. They must continue to light it up on offense, and they must do a better job of tackling the runner than they did in their last game. The winner of this game moves on to face the winner of the Ocala Forest vs Jacksonville First Coast match up.

LINCOLN TROJANS - CITY CHAMPIONS

It was cold last night in Tallahassee. Colder than Chicago. Colder than New York. Colder than Fargo, North Dakota? Yes, colder than Fargo, North Dakota according to the weatherman's report last night. But that didn't stop the crowd from piling in at the North Florida Fair, or at the annual rivalry game between Lincoln and Godby. This one was for bragging rights. This one was for the City Championship. Lincoln came out firing after several runs by DJ Abnar, Lincoln set up a TD run with a 36 yard pass from Ronald Butler to Raphael Andrades to make it 1st an goal at the 4 yard line. Abnar would take care of business from there to make it 7-0 Lincoln. Godby would later answer with a score of their own (a 1 yard plunge by Khalid Thomas) tying the game 7-7, but before you could blink Reggie Davis took the ensuing kickoff 93 yards for a touchdown to make the score 14-7. Thomas would later add a 71 yard score to tie it up, but Lincoln quickly moved the ball and scored on Abnar's 2nd TD of the night shortly before the half.

Senior WR Raphael Andrades

After the halftime adjustments, the battle continued. Neither team would cave in. Godby tied the score early in the third quarter on a 70 yard pass from Dennis Andrews to Freshman WR Jalin Heyward. However, Lincoln would battle back to take the lead once again when Butler connected with Davis on a 51 yard pass play for a TD. Lincoln would later add a TD by Butler on a QB sneak to rule again as City Champions of Tallahassee. A 3 point loss kept Lincoln (9-1) from having a perfect regular season, but staying perfect in the playoffs is far more important. Lincoln hosts Fleming Island (Jacksonville), while Godby travels to West Florida Tech (Pensacola) for the first round of the playoffs next Friday at 7:30 pm.

LINCOLN TROJANS vs GODBY COUGARS - PREVIEW

TALLAHASSEE LINCOLN TROJANS

                                                                         vs

TALLAHASSEE GODBY COUGARS

When the season began, the outlook for both of these teams was very positive for 2011. Godby had an array of heavily recruited and highly touted athletes. Lincoln was coming off a stunning victory over nationally ranked Armwood (#6 in the nation at the time), for the Class 4A State Championship. Although neither of those factors guaranteed a successful season, here we are at the end of the regular season. Both teams enter the game with 8-1 records, and the unofficial "City Championship" is on the line. There is one small detail that may affect the way this game plays out. Both teams have secured their place in the playoffs. Both teams are seeking to win a State Championship in their respective class. Both teams would hate to lose a key component in the battle (this game), and be short handed in the war (the playoffs). So where do you draw the line? Both teams want to win. Both teams need to stay fresh for next week when the playoffs begin. But when do you say when? That is the dilemma that Godby's Ronnie Cottrell, and Lincoln's Yusuf Shakir will have to come to grips with.

Godby comes in with a who's who list on their roster. Senior LB Kadeem "Pancho" Thomas (Kentucky) is the leader of the "D" (with all due respect to TJ Davis). Pancho is the focal point. All roads lead to Pancho. He's a very underrated player at linebacker whom I would want to have on my team if I was starting one and making selections. Senior DB TJ Davis (Auburn) simply knows how to play cornerback. He knows when to press, when to back off, what angles to take, and very rarely misses a tackle. Senior TE Laith Harlow (Oklahoma) has blossomed into an exceptional tight end. He has great size and very solid hands. Teams often underestimate his ability to find the hole and catch the ball. Senior QB Dennis Andrews (Georgia Tech) will amaze you with his change of direction and his ability to make people miss in small spaces. Senior LB Jakarri Thomas (Arkansas) is a run stopper. Thomas often plays on defensive the line, but he can play where ever he wants to (or is needed). He is a tough physical player that any team would love to have in the trenches. Senior WR Brandon Holifield (Miami) is used to playing basketball and being on the track and field team, but decided to give football a shot. On the basketball court, Hollifield can “jump out the gym”. He gets tons of practice on the Godby track and field team where he nearly high jumps 7 feet. Hollifield is a big athletic receiver who still adjusting to this game. Senior OL Percy Griffin is a big solid offensive lineman. Griffin moves his feet very well and has a strong upper body. The only reason that he might not be as heavily recruited as his teammates is height. Not shabby at 6’2” and 315, but the major programs are looking more for guys 6’5” and up. A move to nose guard might be ideal for this kid. A program with vision might benefit from his talents. His offers include: Jacksonville State, Prairie View A&M and others.

The Lincoln Trojans come into this game on a roll. After a loss, and then a close call against Florida High, Lincoln has been steam rolling opponents. The Trojans have a solid nucleus of returners from the Class 4A State Championship from last year. Those players include: Senior WR Raphael Andrades who on film may appear like he is not running very hard or fast, yet he runs past or pulls away defenders with relative ease. Andrades has great hands, runs solid routes and is a very polished receiver with the knack for finding the open spot in the field. He has 34 catches for 700 yards and 12 TDs on the season, and should break several Lincoln receiving records before his Senior season is done. His offers include: Stanford, Illinois, Arkansas, Vanderbilt, Kentucky & others. Senior RB DJ Abnar is as tough as they come. Despite sitting out the second half of one the games, DJ ran for nearly 650 yards and 11 touchdowns in his last three games. Abnar is a solid runner with tons of speed. The biggest part of DJ's game that can’t be measured is his heart. His offers include: Illinois, Southern Miss, Iowa State & others. Senior QB Ronald Butler is one of the top QBs in the Big Bend, and probably the state. Butler should be getting national consideration based on his solid performances this season. Ronald has completed nearly 65% of his passes and has 22 TDs against only 2 ints. His ability to read defenses, and make decisions under pressure are vastly improved. His offers include: Jacksonville State, Southern Miss, Georgia State & others. Senior TE Connor Sabolic is a versatile player for the Trojans. Conner has given up catching the ball from his tight end position this season to help out on the offensive line. His offers include: Louisville, Northern Illinois, Southern Miss, Jacksonville State and others. Junior WR Reggie Davis is a solid receiver, but is electrifying as a returner. Davis has the ability to turn a small pass into a huge play. Once the ball is in his hands, his acceleration through the defense is a thing of beauty. His offers include: Alabama, Florida, Miami, Notre Dame, Oregon and others. Junior WR/DB Taj Williams is a tall and athletic receiver and defensive back who spends most of his time on playing “D” because of the number of talented receivers on the roster, a testament to the type of unselfish player that he is. Williams will be one of the top receivers in the state next season. His offers include: Florida, Florida State, Alabama, Georgia and others. Sophomore DB Kendall Randolph is a young (2014), but very talented DB, Kendall made the switch from playing QB which may help him understand his new position. He has good size, good speed, and a great nose for the ball.

LINCOLN DISTRICT CHAMPIONS ONCE AGAIN





Derrington Abnar receives the Rivalry MVP Award for his game versus Ocala Forest

 

Myles Gaines makes a spectacular
grab against a Forest defender

Every now and then, there is a weekend in the season that is considered "Upset Weekend". This weekend had that feel. An undefeated team lost to a two-loss team on Thursday night, some top teams lost to the underdogs or came very close to losing around the state. So when on the first possession of the game, Ocala Forest drove the football down field on four plays and scored on the Lincoln Trojans, I understood the sentiments of the Homecoming crowd on hand on this slightly chilled night. I didn't take long at all for Ocala to move the ball on the Trojan "D". A keeper by Sophomore QB Jake Roddenberry, followed by another run, a long toss down the sideline, and then a quick run up the middle by Roddenberry gave Forest a 7-0 lead. The Trojans would quickly respond with a drive of their own, capped off by a 29 yard touchdown pass from Ronald Butler to Raphael Andrades. In the 2nd quarter Derrington Abnar would rip off a 79 yard TD run, and  the Trojans would add a pair of field goals to pull ahead 20-7 by half. In the second half, Lincoln would come out with renewed focus. Lincoln would put up 21 unanswered points, including a spectacular touchdown grab by Myles Gaines. Ocala was held to little or no gains until the latter part of the third when Forest would score on Lincoln's second team defense. Ocala added another score in the fourth to make the final 41-21. Abnar rushed for 159 yards on 13 carries and 2 TDs, Butler was 18 for 28, 281 yards and 2 TDs, while Andrades had 4 receptions, 94 yards, and a TD. With his performance Abnar earned game MVP honors. Mark Herndon had 143 yards and a TD for Ocala.

LINCOLN vs OCALA FOREST - PREVIEW

TALLAHASSEE LINCOLN TROJANS

vs

OCALA FOREST WILDCATS

The Ocala Forest Wildcats come into Tallahassee with nothing to lose. No one expects them to beat Lincoln. No one expects them to be Class 7A District 1 Champions. No one except, of course, themselves. Forest has quietly put together a solid season. Senior RB Mark Herndon is one of the most underrated players at his position in the state. Herndon has rushed for 1189 yards and 17 TDs this season, his physical size maybe an issue for some Colleges, but the size of his heart won't be. Sophomore QB Jake Roddenberry is the signal caller for the Wildcats, while the defense is led by three of the area's top players Safety Jordon Austin (who leads Marion County in tackles and interceptions), DE Tyler Grow, and LB Michael Hobbs. If the Wildcats are going to win this game, they must be disciplined on defense and not allow the Lincoln offense to get in to a rhythm, they also must control and protect the football on offense.

The Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans are coming off of a badly needed bye week. A few key Lincoln players have been nicked up, so the off week has allowed them to rest and recover. The last five games the Trojan offense has been unstoppable while scoring 62, 52, 48, 54, and 55 points. Senior RB D.J. Abnar has been running wild amassing 475 yards and 9 TDs the last two games, despite sitting out the entire second half due to the score in one of the contests. The Trojans have their eyes set on returning to Orlando in December, but the first and most important step is winning the district. For Lincoln it is also Homecoming, which adds to the excitment of the game. In order for Lincoln to win, they can not afford to look ahead. They can't look ahead to Orlando. They can't look ahead at First Coast (a likely playoff opponent). They can't look ahead at undefeated cross town rival Godby next week. The focus has to be on the now, and Head Coach Yusuf Shakir will likely have the Trojans on the right page.

TROJAN SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON **ERIC CHILDS**

Senior Linebacker Eric Childs

When it comes to consistency on the Lincoln Trojan football team, you do not need to look any further than Senior Linebacker/Running Back Eric Childs. I have followed this young man since his days at Swift Creek Middle School, and not much has changed. He makes plays, makes the tackle, sticks his nose in the middle of the opposing teams business. Maybe teams overlook him because of his stature, but at the end of the night you will find out that the one immeasurable that he does have is a huge heart. A fearless competitor, the leader on the defense, there is a reason why EC has been called "My Favorite Linebacker" for years and years.

Senior Linebacker - Eric Childs

This past summer, Childs made his rounds at several camps. At Duke he opened the coaches eyes when he posted a 4.5 forty yards dash and for a moment the possibility of a low center of gravity RB came to mind. His 5'9" and 190 pounds frame really is the only thing stopping this kid from being a big time D-1 prospect. EC also traveled to the Citadel, and Wofford College. He was able to leave a big impression on the coaches there with his hard work and attention to detail. He has been in contact with the coaches there on a regular basis and hopes to secure a scholarship offer from them soon. Citadel Special Teams Coordinator and Linebackers Coach Aashon Larkin has been in regular contact with Childs since leaving the camp. Childs receives letters every week from the Citadel and would like to continue playing football and attend college somewhere. Wofford College has been in contact as well. He receives mail from them and several other schools, but right now these two schools are in his top preferences for next year. Academically, EC is already qualified. He maintains a 3.5 gpa, and scored an 1180 on his SAT & a 19 on the ACT.

What Eric Childs lacks in stature he has doubles that in heart. His biggest game this season was against Florida High. He scored the touchdown to tie the game up at 21, and sealed the game when he made a HUGE tackle for loss on 4th and short for FL High to end the game with time running out. My all time favorite highlight for EC, however came last season against Rickards. As Rickards punted the ball away to us, Reggie Davis to the ball on the right side of the field, as he raced to the middle he saw that he had to bounce it outside. With defenders giving chase EC wiped out the last guy that had a chance at Davis. EC hit the kid so hard, his feet pointed skyward as he flew about 5 yards out of bounds. ERIC CHILDS IS A FOOTBALL PLAYER (PERIOD). Where ever he ends up, that school will be lucky to have him.

LINCOLN GETS GOING EARLY OVER WEST PORT

The Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans traveled to Ocala to face the West Port Wolf Pack. The game was fast paced, as the Trojans made quick work of West Port. Senior RB D.J. Abnar put the team on his back and carried them to victory. On Lincoln's first possession, Abnar scored from 32 yards out, but West Port would quickly answer making the score 7-6 as the Wolf Pack missed the PAT. Lincoln responded by scoring on every possession in the first half except one, needing only 24 plays to put up 48 points. Abnar ripped West Port for 202 yards on 10 carries and 4 TDs in the first half, QB Ronald Butler scored on a 68 yard TD run, WR Reggie Davis added a 25 yd TD run, and WR Raphael Andrades caught a 17 yd TD to round out the first half scoring. Lincoln went into the lockerroom up 48-6.

Video: How Lincoln Scored

The Lincoln starters would sit out the second half for the fourth time this season following huge halftime leads. The Wolf Pack would not just lay down and go away though. Having every reason to hang their heads, West Port came out of the lockerroom as if the game was 0-0. Don't know what Head Coach Ryan Hearn said at the half but the speech must of been very inspirational. The Wolf Pack would drive the ball down field on the Trojan defense and score, giving West Port faithful something to cheer about. By the end of the night, RB Will Sims would finish with 18 carries for 154 yards and a touchdown. This young, up and coming team and program will be a force in the future. The Trojan reserve unit would give up 2 scores while driving down field and scoring themselves making the final score 55-21. But the real story on the night was D.J. Abnar. In the last two games Abnar has rushed for nearly 500 yards on roughly only 30 carries and an eye popping 9 TDs.

With the victory the Trojans clinched their spot in the playoffs. Their next opponent is Ocala Forest and that game will determine the District 1-7A Champion on November 4 in Tallahassee at Gene Cox Stadium 7pm.

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LINCOLN vs OCALA WEST PORT - PREVIEW

TALLAHASSEE LINCOLN TROJANS

                                                                    vs

OCALA WEST PORT

The Ocala West Port Wolf Pack come into this game with a 3-3 record. Their offense is one that can put up a lot of points in a hurry, and are lead by a first year starter in Senior QB Daniel Guerrero. K'von Brown leads Marion County in receptions and is Guerrero's favorite target. WRs Marvin Wilkerson and Antonio Mathis are highly involved in the passing game, while RBs Antonio Mathis and Alphonso Randolph lead the ground game. The Wolf Pack love to try to get the ball to the edge, and will use screen plays and quick passes to the flat to do it. They rely on their opponents missing tackles in the open field against their quick receivers and running backs. When opponents cheat up, they will try to go over the top, however, if you can get to their QB early you can slow the offense down considerably.

The Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans travel into Ocala on a roll offensively. In the last four games they have put 216 points on the board (62, 52, 48, 54). Lincoln is lead by Senior QB Ronald Butler who has completed 65% of his passes so far with 19 TDs, and only 2 interceptions. His favorite target is Senior Raphael Andrades who has caught 10 TDs this season, and on the ground Lincoln is lead by DJ Abnar who last week ran for 278 yards and 5 TDs. The Trojans are also a team that is bruised up pretty good. James Hearns, Joshua Gilmore, Connor Sabolic, Andy Wiggins, Carson Combs, and Myles Gaines all sat out last week. Reggie Davis, Andrades and others have ankle, knee, and other ailments that may slow Lincoln down this week.

LINCOLN VS LEON: A TALLAHASSEE RIVALRY FOREVER

WR- Raph Andrades & RB - DJ Abnar       photo by Jack Turner

When the evening started, the skeptics did not give Leon a chance. Leon was missing some very key players due to an earlier situation with Middleburg High School. However, many had no idea that Lincoln would be missing a few players of their own. Out nursing injuries were four defensive starters: LB James Hearns, DL Joshua Gilmore, LB Carson Combs and DL Andy Wiggins. On the offensive side: starter OL/TE Connor Sabolic, and WR Myles Gaines, both integral part of team as well. Other players played through minor injuries, or through pain.

After Leon muffed the opening kickoff, Lincoln recovered the ball at the 21 yard line and took full advantage it. Lincoln scored on it's first play from scrimmage when Ronald Butler connected with his favorite target Raphael Andrades for a touchdown with only :11 seconds gone off of the clock. Many thought that the rout was on, but a crafty Bill Ragans wouldn't hear anything of it. With a top area running back in his backfield (Tim Longmire), Coach Ragans would rely on the legs of his QB Taylor Scott to drive the team down field, and then Scott would connect with TE Griffin Westscott for a 17 yd TD and the lead 7-6 as Lincoln had missed the PAT. Lincoln would score again, but this time on the ground. A 74 yard scamper by D.J. Abnar would give Lincoln the lead for good. Abnar would score two more TDs before the half, making the score 26-7. In the 3rd quarter, momentum would jump on Leon's side. After Abnar score his 4th TD of the night, Leon would score 3 quick TDs to make the game interesting. Leon hoping that their luck would continue, tried an onside kick, but Sophomore LB Jeff Williams would catch the ball on the hop, and race 53 yards for a touchdown. That ended any hope of an upset. Lincoln had an answer for everything that Leon had & that answer was RB D.J. Abnar. In all Abnar rushed 22 times for 278 yards and 5 TDs. Senior Raphael Andrades added 5 catches for 152 yards and 2 TDs.

LINCOLN vs LEON - PREVIEW



LINCOLN TROJANS

vs



LEON LIONS



Tallahassee Lincoln (5-1) @ Tallahassee Leon (3-2)

The Tallahassee Leon Lions have been in a long standing rivalry with the Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans. The fact that Leon has lost a few key players for this match up will not change the way the Lion's mindset coming into this game. Leon is on a three game win streak. They are also coming off of a huge 34-14 victory against Oakleaf from the Jacksonville Orange Park area, and is poised to give Lincoln a run for their money. Head Coach Bill Ragans knows how make the most of any situation. In the Spring he didn't have a Quarterback, so Tim Longmire (a running back) ran the show for Lions from the "Wildcat" formation. With Longmire nursing an injury earlier this seaon, Leon needed a running back, so Ragans moved Juan Neloms (a receiver & defensive back & arguably their best athlete) to running back.

Lincoln has been on a roll since they got a scare from Florida High. The Lincoln Trojans have been in three consecutive games in which the starters were pulled by the end of the first half. Running clocks have been used in the third and fourth quarters, due to the size of the leads. Senior QB Ronald Butler has been on fire during that stretch throwing 13 TDs in 3 halves against one interception. Senior RB D.J. Abnar has lead the ground game, while Senior WR Raphael Andrades has benefitted from Butler’s aerial attack.

LINCOLN TROJANS DESTROYS GAINESVILLE BUCHHOLZ

If you blinked, you missed it, as the Lincoln Trojans made quick work of the Gainesville Buchholz Bobcats. On the first possession, Lincoln ran two plays and scored on a 60 yard pass from Ronald Butler to Myron Mebane making the score 6-0 after the kick failed. On the ensuing possession, Butler and Mebane hooked up again for the second score of the game, and the rout was on. DJ Abnar would run one in on the on the third possession, just before Butler would hook up with his favorite target Raphael Andrades, for a 5 yard score. Reggie Davis would add to the fun with a score from Butler, and Andrades would close out the perfect first half with a 22 yards grab. The Trojans scored everytime that they touched the ball in the first half, Butler was 11 for 11, with 182 yards & a game tying record 5 TDs in the first half.

At the half, the 1999 and 2001 Championship teams were honored including some key administrators like then principal, Martha Bunche and key players like Mike Gilliam who still holds records for rushing at Lincoln.

Buchholz hosts Gainesville next week, while Lincoln goes up against cross town rival Leon.

LINCOLN TROJANS vs GAINESVILLE BUCHHOLZ - PREVIEW

TALLAHASSEE LINCOLN TROJANS

                                                                   vs

GAINESVILLE BUCHHOLZ

The Gainesville Buchholz Bobcats come into this game improving week by week. After starting the season with a lot of key players sitting out due to injury, this team is getting better and better. Last week they had three of those key players back in action, and this week the Bobcats get two more. However, this team has relied on their Mr. Everything back (#3) Tony James. James is their leading rusher, leading receiver, and if he has to sell popcorn he'll be the leader at that. The team is young with only nine Seniors on the roster, and will be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come, but don't go to sleep on them this year because the Bobcats are up and coming.

The Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans come off of a two game stretch in which their starters only got to play the first halves due to lopsided victories. In the last four quarters, however, the Trojan starters have outscored their opponents 104-0 and have been led by Senior QB Ronald Butler who was 25 for 36 for 336 yards with 8 TDs and just 1 interception over those four quarters. With the offense starting to click, and the defense playing strong, look for the Trojans to continue to improve.

LINCOLN AT IT AGAIN



Ronald Butler and the Trojans run all over Rickards - photo by Mike Ewen/Democrat


Last week against Chiles High School, Lincoln lead 55-0 at the half, and sat the starters for the remainder of the game. This week against Rickards, Lincoln lead 49-0 at the half, and sat the starters for the remainder of the game. "It's deja vu all over again" (Yogi Berra). Lincoln has suddenly become a high powered offense behind the arm of Ronald Butler, and the legs of DJ Abnar. Butler once again threw for 4 TDs, Abnar ran for over 100 yards and 2 TDs, and this time Reggie Davis was the recipient of 3 TD passes from Butler.... ALL IN THE FIRST HALF. Statistically, Butler finished 7 for 11, 152 yards, 4 TDs, and had his first interception of the season; Abnar had 9 carries for 129 yards and 2 TDs, while Reggie Davis added 4 receptions for 109 yards and a (Lincoln) record tying 3 TDs. This Lincoln team is begining to gel, and to show signs of... well before I get ahead of myself, let's focus on the next opponent which for Lincoln is at home against Gainesville Buchholz (we'll talk about them later) while Rickards travels to Wakulla next week.

LINCOLN vs RICKARDS - PREVIEW

LINCOLN TROJANS

vs

RICKARDS RAIDERS

The Rickards Raiders come into this game trying to find their identity. Legendary coach Rudy Hubbard has this team heading in the right direction after a rough start. After having a tough time in their first two games offensively, Rickards found a way to get into the end zone against a very tough Florida High team. Special teams was a spark for the Raiders last week, however that is an area that the Lincoln Trojans take pride in. The Raiders are massive up front, and athletic in the skill positions which typically is a formula for success, and this team is not far off from reaching some success soon. Rickards keys to the game: dominate the line of scrimmage, minimize mental errors & penalties, put points on the board.

For the Lincoln Trojans things are a little different. Lincoln comes in looking very good after the scare against Florida High. A re-focused Lincoln team won in a 62-7 lopsided victory against Chiles last week. The Trojans can get off to a good start against Rickards if the team doesn't look ahead to next week, or look back at their previous performance. This years teams has talent and speed everywhere. Lincoln keys to the game: remain focused, balanced offensive attack, defenseively don't give up the big play.

TROJAN LIGHT SHINES ON **JOSHUA GILMORE**

Joshua Gilmore is a 5'11" 220 pound Full Back, Linebacker, Defensive Lineman and sometimes he's even been called an Offensive Lineman. He works tirelessly at whatever he does and that makes him one of my favorite Trojan unsung heroes. Gillie never complains, never looks for glory, never showboats. He simply comes to "work", lays down the law, and goes home. In  the game against Pensacola, earlier this season, Gilmore had 3 sacks and several tackles for loss. At the end of the night, when you try to think back at his performance is when you realize, WOW! Gilmore was everywhere tonight. I compare it to watching a great basketball player. At the end of the game you look up to find out that he scored 39 points and it didn't seem like it. Gilmore is a Wrestler on the Lincoln team and also participates on the Weight Lifting and Track and Field team. The stat that I love to hear a kid quote the most is his G.P.A., especially when they use the term "Un-weighted" and Gilmore's sits at a 3.2. He recently took the ACT so that score will be updated soon.

LINCOLN WINS BIG

Lincoln faces off against Chiles

Lincoln came in to this game needing to get back on track after a loss two weeks ago, and a come from behind victory last week. The Trojans did it in a big way. Led again by their Senior crew of Ronald Butler, who threw for 4 touchdowns; D.J. Abnar, who ran for another 3 TDs; and Raphael Andrades, who caught 2 of those Butler TDs, Lincoln routed Chiles on their way to a 55-0 half. Yes, half. The Trojans were hitting on all cylinders. The defense was ferocious, the offense had everything working. Even when passes were incomplete the play had worked, it was just that the QB & WR did not connect. Abnar ran hard. The Offensive Line did their job. The "D" wouldn't give Chiles a chance. Unofficially for the game, Butler finished 14 for 19, 184 yards and 4 touchdowns; Abnar 11 carries for 88 yards and 3 TDs, Andrades 5 catches, 48 yards & 2 TDs. Myles Gaines had his first score of the season (10 yd TD), James McRoy would also score on a reception. Reggie Davis added a rushing TD all in the first half. The Trojans would go on to win 62-7. The big bright spot for Chiles... Tres Penny. Tres Penny threw darts all night long, despite a couple of interceptions late in the game Penny was on target all night. Receivers some how just could not hang on to make the catch. Lincoln faces Rickards next week, while Chiles travels to Ocala to face Lake Weir.

LINCOLN vs CHILES - PREVIEW

                                                         LINCOLN TROJANS

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                                                     CHILES TIMBERWOLVES


The Chiles Timberwolves come in to this season trying to rebound from a tough 2010. At Quarterback they are starting Senior Tres Penny, who I thought should of gotten more playing time last season. First year head coach Mike Lassiter has had his worked cut out for him from the second that he accepted the position. Chiles lost a few players to graduation and others to transfers, but Lassiter has worked his player hard, and they have bought into his system. Chiles opened the season with 23-0 victory over Rickards High School. They come into this game 1-2, but they have not gone down without giving it their all.

The Lincoln Trojans come in to this game trying make adjustments. Last season, it was the adjustments made for the Chiles game that propelled the Trojans on to win the Class 4A State Championship. Lincoln has come out a bit slow in each of it's first three ball games. I would like to see the Trojans run "No Huddle" for the first and maybe the second series of the game to get the offense started early. The excitment of an early score will also generate energy and momentum for the "D". Lincoln also needs to rely on a balanced attack, and in some cases go to air a little more and take advantage of one of their team strengths... the passing game. This is a District game, so it is very important for both teams to come out strong.

A TALE OF TWO HALVES (LINCOLN vs FL HIGH) - RECAP

Ronald Butler and Raphael Andrades hooked up regularly to pull
out a victory against Florida High Friday night at Lincoln Trojan Field.



Lincoln came into this game with every reason to play well. They had just lost their National Ranking after losing last week. They were playing for the first time in their brand new green Nike uniforms. They had just lost a Lincoln icon (Jimmy Everett), who was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease (ALS) in 2009, and had just passed away the night before. And they were playing on their own home High School field for the first time since 2002 which is surrounded by the Jimmy Everett Track. With motivation coming at them from every possible direction, the team still managed to come out flat. Passionless. Unfocused. Florida High on the other hand came in undefeated (2-0) and came to play as though they wanted to stay that way. After the ball exchanged hands a couple of times Florida High forced the first turnover of the game when Leitaras Stokes forced a fumble that was recovered by the Seminoles. With great field position FL High would punch it in to take an early 7-0 lead. A couple of exchanges later Florida High would punt the ball away to Lincoln, as the ball was being returned there was another fumble by Lincoln. The ball bounced perfectly in to hands of Austin Logan who returned the fumble for the second score of the game and a 14-0 lead. To say that the Lincoln crowd was stunned would be a terrible understatement. Lincoln finally answered the bell when Ronald Butler hooked up with Raphael Andrades on a short 5 yard pass. Andrades made one move, and raced the rest of the way for a 66 yard score to make it 14-7 with a little over a minute left in the half. The Seminoles would not go away easy. After a good return put them in great field position, FL High would connect on a strike from about 30 yards out to go into the lockerroom up 21-7.

The second half would prove to be more of what most people, except for Florida High, expected. Interestingly enough, according to the players the lockerroom at halftime was not full of yelling and screaming by Head Coach Yusuf Shakir. They said that he hardly said anything at all. The Senior leaders like Ronald Butler and Eric Childs spoke to the team, and they came out with a renewed sense of purpose. Lincoln then took the opening two drives down field for scores set up by the passing game tying up the score 21-21. The Seminoles would struggle on offense going 3 and out on several occassions in the second half, while Lincoln would convert on crucial third and sometimes fourth downs to keep drives alive. Lincoln even committed a Cardinal sin... on fourth down they lined up and made a field goal, however, a running into the kicker penalty would shorten the distance on the fourth down. The Trojans took points off of the board to go for it on fourth down, they converted and later punched it in. Later in the fourth, Lincoln running back DJ Abnar would almost seal the deal with his second score of the night, but the extra point was blocked leaving the door open for the Seminoles. Finally, trying to stay alive on 4th and 1 the Seminoles handed the ball off to their running back, but Eric Childs would get penetration and stop him dead in his tracks for a two yard loss to close the door on the Seminoles. Lincoln won the second half 20-0 and was led by Abnar finished who with 18 carries for 143 yards and 2 TDs, Butler 17-of-25 for 278 and 1 TD, Andrades 7 catches 194 yards and 1 TD, while FL High got 73 yards on 20 carries from Ke'Sean Lewis.

JIMMY EVERETT CALLED UP TO THE BIG LEAGUES - R.I.P.

                                                JIMMY EVERETT (1954-2011)



Legendary Coach Jimmy Everett (left) sees the Trojan Football team off to State last season.

 



THE PRIDE OF TROJAN NATION!

For all who knew him, and for all who didn't, Jimmy Everett was one heck of a human being. I remember when we first met, it was a very simple introduction, we were able to exchange pleasantries and that was about it due to the nature of the environment. However, the second time that I had a chance to speak to Coach Everett, we spoke as if we had known each other for 20 years. He had that type of personality. He wasn't down on himself because of his fight with ALS commonly referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease, he was up beat about waking up one more day. All smiles... always. Encouraging, loving but most of all optimistic. He knew he was on the short list, yet he was able to openly and positively talk about how is life was changing. If you were ever privy to this type of conversation you would of thought that he was talking about someone else because it sure didn't sound like a complaint. It was more of a time for him to share how grateful he was to be able to get around, able to see, able to breathe fresh air. Everett played football at Godby and FSU before coaching at Leon, and finally making Lincoln his home for well over 20 years. He is survived by his mother, Virginia; wife, Sondra; son, Tyler; sisters Geni and Nancy; and brothers Randy and John. This Tallahassee Warrior will be always loved and missed.
                              

                             

SENIOR POSTER NIGHT

The first 100 Lincoln fans wearing anything that says Lincoln, or is Green or Gold will receive a FREE Senior Poster.

LINCOLN vs FLORIDA HIGH - PREVIEW

LINCOLN TROJANS

vs

FLORIDA HIGH SEMINOLES

If the Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans are to bounce back from a tough loss last week in Valdosta, they are going to have to do it against a feisty Florida High Seminoles team. Florida High is coming off a 30-6 win over Chiles in which Senior RB/DB Ke'Sean Lewis scored 4 TDs (2 rushing, punt return & a pick 6). Although the roster is small, this Seminole team has a lot of heart. Lincoln will need to improve offensively in the running game and show that their receiving corps is as good as advertised. Defensively, the Trojans have proven that they are very solid on this side of the ball.

For Florida High, they will have stay out of 3 and out situations if they are to have any success against a very aggressive Lincoln Trojan defense. One man will not beat this Lincoln team as was the case in the Chiles game, it's going to take a team effort.

TROJAN LIGHT SHINES ON **TREVIN HUFF**

The Silent Giant, Trevin Huff is a 6'4" 255 pound Offensive Lineman from Tallahassee Lincoln. Most don't know if he has a deep voice, normal voice, or high pitched voice because Huff very rarely says anything at all. Players often tell stories about each other from practice or games quoting something funny or witty. My favorite Huff quote is the only one I've ever heard, "Man this is too easy!" as he ran off of the field last season during the Fall Jamboree. He had worked so hard during the summer, fall, and two-a-days to earn a starting spot on last year's Class 4A State Championship Team that when he faced some local competition other than his team mates, the hard work had paid off. Huff had been able to be a dominant force on the offensive line that night and help lead the Trojans to victories in both halves. Now, as he embarks on his Senior season, he hopes that the work ethic takes him to the next level. Colleges that have offered him the opportunity continue his career in football while obtaining an free education include: Florida Atlantic University, Southern Mississippi, and Bethune-Cookman University. Schools like Ole Miss, Ball State, and North Carolina State continue to stay in contact. Some of the more intellectual schools and Ivy Leagues should also be knocking on his door, as this young man has a 3.5 G.P.A. and scored a 1310 on the main components of the SAT. Trevin Huff is also a starter on the Lincoln High school basketball team.

Valdosta Lincoln Recap

The game was billed as a big battle between two storied programs until the referees came in and stole the show. "Pass Interference" was the name of this movie. Reggie Davis streaking down the side line with tons of contact by the defender? Offensive Pass Intereference against Lincoln. A pass that may have been caught but as Taj Williams begins his leap he gets pushed out of bounds and away from making a play while the ball is in the air? No Pass Interference. A pass thrown into the end zone while their receiver is at the 12 yard line and as the Lincoln defender watches the ball sail out of reach he bumps the receiver in the back? You guessed it, Pass Interference! One other thing that was glaringly wrong was the ball spotting by one particular official on punts kicked out of bounds. The first occurence the head official had to make a 9 yard correction on this guy's call, but he can't watch everything. Later in the game a punt by Valdosta from deep in their territory bounces at the 42 yard line. The ball takes a backwards bounce towards the 46 yard line. That official marks the ball dead at the Lincoln 35 yard line. I'm not saying that Lincoln should of had the ball at the 46, but anywhere between 42 and 46 is clearly acceptable based on any judgment, but the 35?  I do not want to sound bitter about the officiating, but to put it mildly I would have to call it ATROCIOUS!

Now on to the game itself. This game was a defensive battle. Valdosta DE Michael Wakefield looked like a very underrated player. The kid is a beast. He must of had 5 sacks.... in the first half alone! Lincoln would also shut down Valdosta most of the first half. Big hits by James Hearns, and tackles in the trenches made by Eric Childs showed off the Line Backing corps. The Trojan front four were not taking it easy on the Wildcats either. Sacks, tackles for loss, no gain, one yard gain was definately on their menu for the evening. It was well into the first quarter (3:27 left), when Lincoln gave Valdosta a fraction of a second too long to complete a pass to a receiver about 15 yards down field who would then break a tackle pick up some blocks and set up the first score of the game. In the second half, the battle continued and Valdosta (penalty-aided) added a field goal to make it 10-0. With time running down, Lincoln would put up it's only points of the night when Ronald Butler hit Myron Mebane and he dove hitting the pylon for the score. The final onside kick was recovered by Valdosta who needed to run off the final :23 seconds to seal the victory. Valdosta is a solid team and deserves it's share of the credit. Lincoln made a few mistakes and just maybe a Home and Home series is better suited for this type of rivalry.

TROJAN LIGHT SHINES ON **CONNOR SABOLIC**

Connor Sabolic is 6’5” 225 pound Athlete. This title is usually reserved for a player that plays Quarterback, but is better suited for DB or WR at the next level, but I am calling Sabolic an Athlete. He plays Offensive Tackle, Tight End, Defensive End & I bet if Lincoln needs a lead blocker from the Full Back position, he will line up there too. Sabolic could excel on the diamond as a left-handed pitcher, which he used to be and is a very hot commodity in baseball, he could excel on the hard wood, where at 6’5” his game was beginning to develop, but there is only one game that he enjoys and is passionate about… Football.  He has nice frame that can carry more weight and muscle and that is the one thing that the colleges love about Sabolic. He currently holds offers from Louisville, Southern Miss, Jacksonville State, Georgia State, and Northern Illinois. Other schools showing interest in him are Princeton and N.C. State, but he would love it if his Dad’s alma mater, Michigan State University offered. Connor has been re-adjusting to the Tackle position after playing Tight End all Spring and Summer, and says, “the biggest thing that we need to do as a team is improve week to week, like we did last year”, a year that culminated with the Class 4A State Championship.

In the class room Sabolic says he has plenty work to do. He wants to get his G.P.A. higher, he currently holds a 3.4. His SAT score has him qualified for the next level at 1250. On and off the field this young man brings the right attitude and that is something else that his future coaches will love.

LINCOLN TRAVELS TO VALDOSTA - PREVIEW

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LINCOLN TROJANS

            

              

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VALDOSTA WILDCATS

It's Florida vs Georgia in the battle of two of the top programs in the country. Tallahassee Lincoln the 2010 Class 4A State Champion (FL) goes up against the Valdosta (GA) Wildcats the winningest program in High School Football history.

VALDOSTA - This team comes in with a record of 2-0 after defeating Brooks County by a score of 20-11 and Hardaway 37-7. It is no secret that the Wildcats can move the ball and score. This team comes in ranked #26 in the state (MaxPreps), but don't let that suck you in, the team is better than its ranking. The Wildcats are a football team that is coached by Rance Gillespie so they will be disciplined, ready and up to the task. Defensive End Mike Wakefield #96 is a top area player. At 6'3" 225 he brings quickness off the edge, surprising strength, pop, and aggressiveness. Willie Barrett is a 6'3" 290 OL that plays big down in the trenches. The quick strike offensive attack is lead by Junior QB Alex Stephenson, and the ground game has been shared by Senior Charlie Albritton, and Sophomores Malcolm Joseph and Nelson Herring. Against Hardaway, Valdosta led 37-0 at the half and let their second team play the remainder of the game.

LINCOLN - The Trojans come in 1-0 after a hard fought win at Pensacola High. If the Trojans are to win, they must stop the quick strike offense of the Wildcats. Offensively, Lincoln needs to establish the running game period! At Pensacola the Trojans rushed 32 times for 63 yards... that's less than 2 yards per carry. The O-line needs to more efficient for Ronald Butler and DJ Abnar to be effective.

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