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By Carey Reeder | Staff Writer

Chilton County High School linebacker Demarcus Riddick had a memorable 2022 season for the Tigers and caps it by winning the 2022 The Clanton Advertiser Defensive Player of the Year.

Riddick was stalwart on the Tigers defense last season leading CCHS in tackles with 109, 62 of those solo tackles, and in sacks with seven. Riddick was reliable in coverage as well, pulling down three interceptions and returning one of those for a touchdown.

“Demarcus is a guy who is very versatile throughout our defense with stopping the running game, being able to cover receivers when needed, and pressure the quarterback,” CCHS coach Marvin Morton said. “The growth he has had since his freshman year is great, and he is making progress and reaching his max potential.”

Riddick committed to the University of Georgia on Nov. 4 and is the 38th overall prospect in the 2024 class, according to ESPN’s recruiting rankings. Riddick was the 43rd overall prospect on Nov. 4.

Riddick provided a vocal leader in the CCHS locker room in 2022, and was able to positively influence his teammates throughout the season.

“He was able to make his teammates better,” Morton said. “He has to continue to do the little things and work hard in the offseason to where he can have a stellar senior year. I am looking forward to having his leadership as he enters his senior year.”

 

Honorable Mention: Malachi Allgood, Thorsby

Malachi Allgood led Chilton County in tackles in 2022 with 158 from the linebacker position for Thorsby High School. Although slightly undersized for the position, Allgood made 13 tackles for loss and was praised by Thorsby coach Daryl Davis for his ability to prepare for games.

“He is just a real coachable kid and does a great job at preparing each week by watching film,” Davis said. “He just soaks everything up.”

Just a sophomore, Allgood had massive games all season including a 27-tackle game against Prattville Christian on Aug. 26 that included six solo tackles. Allgood helped stabilize a Thorsby defense that finished fourth in the AHSAA Class 2A Region 4 standings and punched a ticket to its sixth consecutive playoff appearance.

 

2022 All-Advertiser Team, Defense

Defensive Line: Jarod Quinn, Verbena — 91 tackles (51 solo), two sacks and one fumble recovery

Defensive Line: Jonathan Bradenburg, Thorsby — 52 tackles and five tackles for loss

Defensive Line: Nky Nunn, Thorsby — 47 tackles and five tackles for loss

Defensive Line: Hunter Ousley, Chilton County — 108 tackles (43 solo) and nine sacks

Linebacker: Demarcus Riddick, Chilton County — 109 tackles (62 solo), seven sacks and three interceptions (one pick six)

Linebacker: Elijah Allen, Jemison — 112 tackles, eight tackles for loss and two sacks

Linebacker: Malachi Allgood, Thorsby — 158 tackles and 13 tackles for loss

Linebacker: Jacob Morris, Verbena — 98 tackles (52 solo), three sacks and one fumble recovery

Linebacker: Johnathon Wilson, Maplesville — 64 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions and one forced fumble

Defensive Back: Jakavion Jackson, Maplesville — 34 tackles, 11 pass breakups, eight interceptions (one pick six)

Defensive Back: Payton Cook, Maplesville — 39 tackles, six interceptions (one pick six), six pass breakups and two fumble recoveries

Defensive Back: DreVon Lee, Isabella — 67 tackles, three interceptions and one sack

Defensive Back: Tucker Bradford, Jemison — 52 tackles and four interceptions

Defensive Back: Jakobe Worthy, Chilton County — 50 tackles (29 solo) and six interceptions (one pick six)