At a Class 1A football program noted for its wealth of talent, the backbone of South Pittsburg football has long been players who overcame a lack of size by playing with loads of intensity and an appreciation for tradition.
For all practical purposes, it has become “the Pirate rule.” Since the TSSAA implemented the mercy rule for football last season, South Pittsburg has put it in effect 16 times in a 23-game winning streak, including against every Region 3-1A foe.
It has one NCAA Division I prospect, another who should be next year and three others who could play at the next level.
Like any good collection of sprinters, South Pittsburg’s football team knows the importance of getting out of the blocks quickly.
The video game type numbers are likely to come to an end, but South Pittsburg’s stable of offensive weapons is eager for the challenge.
SOUTH PITTSBURG, Tenn. — Amid all the hoopla and celebration of last year’s Class 1A state championship, before the bus had even returned from Murfreesboro, South Pittsburg’s Pirates were making plans to ensure a return trip.
As if the return of 14 seniors from last year’s undefeated Clas 1A state championship team wasn’t scary enough for opponents, several underclassmen appear ready to become the next wave of talent at South Pittsburg.
It was as quiet a 1,300-yard season as any running back has had in recent memory.
By Stephen HargisAssistant Sports Editor SOUTH PITTSBURG, Tenn. -- Arkeeme McKinney, who had not set foot on the field defensively all night, made a strong case for more playing time. With six seconds remaining and South Pittsburg clinging to a
