Marion County’s Jacob Saylors (8) is tripped up by Tyner’s Martavius Royals (1) during the Class 2A quarterfinal football game between Tyner and Marion County Friday, Nov. 17, 2017 in Bob Evans Stadium at Tyner High School. On a recent visit to Johnson City, Jacob Saylors fell in love with the small-town feel surrounding East Tennessee State University. Marion County’s two-way star, and one of the area’s most productive and decorated players over the past three seasons, was part of the first signing class for Buccaneers coach Randy Sanders Wednesday.
“Everything about that area – the campus, the school, the town and the coaching staff and players – reminded me of home,” Saylor said. “I just felt comfortable there.
“I’m not sure if they want me to play offense or defense, but I don’t have a preference. I just want to play.”
A Warriors starter since his freshman year, Saylors earned all-state recognition each of his last three seasons and was a finalist for the state’s 2017 Mr. Football award. Saylors accumulated 74 touchdowns and more than 4,100 career yards and also intercepted 18 passes to help Marion reach three straight Class 2A state championship games.
Three six-packs