Defensive Tackle Jacob Humphrey runs with the flag before the game. Photo by Alexa Glenn
With there being only one regular season football game left for the Tyler Junior College Apaches, it’s time to look back at the 2020-21 season. As of Nov. 2, the team is sitting at second place in the conference standings with four wins and two losses. While playoff contention is almost out of the question with how the NJCAA structure works, the Apaches will likely be eligible for a bowl game for the first time since 2013. Bowl games are an opportunity for lesser known athletes to show their skills to a wider audience.
This is an example of the sort of tough love Rocco shows many of TJC’s players. Quarterback General Booty has thrown for almost 2,400 yards and can be expected to pass that mark in the final game with his 279.1 passing yards per game. He has also thrown 21 touchdowns to nine interceptions. Receivers Jeremiah Cooley and Kelly Akaharaiyi each found the endzone six times, leading receivers in that category. Booty also spreads the ball out equally, with players Cooley, Akaharaiyi and Jordan Wallace each having over 400 yards receiving. The Apaches also have a bruising rushing attack to back up their deadly aerial attack, with running back Azhuan Dingle totaling 891 yards and averaging eight yards per carry.
Wide receivers Rowry Bailey and Torrance Burgess pose on the sideline. Photo by Alexa Glenn.
In September, TJC split their four games, and then went on to win three and lose one in October, leading the team to a record of 5-3 in overall play. However, these losses come with some superstition. A running joke with the team and fans is if Coach Thomas Rocco runs out with the team and beats the crowd of players to midfield, the team will inevitably lose.
“There is a difference between tradition and superstition. I embrace our traditions here at TJC, and if I’m faster than our team – then we will inevitably lose,” Rocco said.
Jeremiah Cooley dances to celebrate during the game. Photo by Alexa Glenn.
TJC’s offense surging to 34.8 points per game and 486.1 yards per game is what inspires the defense to allow just 31 points per game and 402.8 yards per game. Xavier Benson leads the defense on the front end and Kobe Savage in the secondary. Benson has 86 total tackles this season as well as two interceptions. Savage on the other hand has 47 total tackles and three interceptions.
Quarterback General Booty throws a pass from the pocket. Photo by Alexa Glenn.
“Our guys love football and they love competing,” Rocco said. “They have a passion to belong to something bigger than themselves. That’s our greatest strength.”
TJC’s final game of the season will be against Kilgore College on Nov. 6. Bowl games should be announced soon following the end of the regular season.
