Scott Nickerson
Elmore Autauga News
Through the first two high school football games ever played at the new 17 Springs Stadium in Millbrook, the Stanhope Elmore Mustangs are 2-0 with a combined score of 73-0. A week after defeating Percy Julian 40-0 in the first ever game at 17 Springs, the Mustangs followed it up with a dominant 33-0 win over Park Crossing, behind a 4 touchdown performance from SEHS running back Dee Barnes.
“Formation recognition, eye discipline, and effort,” are the principles working so well for the Mustangs’ defense the last two games, according to Stanhope Elmore Head Football Coach Hunter Adams.
Barnes scored 3 first half touchdowns, and Deondre Washington added another as the Mustangs coasted into halftime with a commanding 27-0 lead. Barnes added another touchdown in the 2nd half to finish the game with 4 touchdowns.
Through four games, Barnes has rushed for 13 touchdowns. He is on pace to set the Mustangs’ single season record for a 10-game season, which is 28. With the playoffs, the record is 32 touchdowns in a season. Barnes success has come behind a physical offensive line.
“The OL is playing really good football! Macin James, Gabe Lewis, and Raul Mondragon are physically dominating,” said Head Coach Adams.
The Mustangs are 3-1 on the season, and 2-0 in Class 6A Region 2. The Mustangs will have next week off as they prepare for the remainder of the season. Stanhope Elmore will host Smiths Station for homecoming in two weeks in a non-region game. The Panthers are 1-3 this season.
“(In the off week), we have to sharpen the saw with some guys in critical backup roles, Dondre Washington at quarterback, Jacory Thompson at running back, and Brian Daniel at defensive back,” said Coach Adams.
