5 Yellowjackets get all-state nods
BY LELAND ACKER

Lance Low (4) and Derek Mumphrey (62) chase down a Seymour quarterback during Saturday's state championship game. Mumphrey was named to the first team all-state defense, while Low received honorable mention. PHOTO: LELAND ACKER

Following an impressive 14- 0 run to a state title in 2006, Alto fans were disappointed to learn that only one player from that team was named to the all-state football team, Julian Willis.

This season, after 28 consecutive wins and two state titles, the Alto Yellowjackets have officially been welcomed into Class A with five players being named to the all-state team.

Making the all-state first team defense for the Jackets are Clayton Scott and Derek Mumphrey.

Mumphrey anchored the defensive line for the Jackets with his size and his ability to make crushing tackles. He led the team with 43 tackles, three sacks, four forced fumbles and one fumble recovery this season.

Scott combined with linebacker Lance Low for a onetwo combination which shut down offenses all season long. The Jackets gave up on average 114 yards per game.

Scott was recognized as Dave Campbell's Defensive Player of the Year last season.

Tarlandus Mitchell was named to the all-state defense and offense. Mitchell played quarterback on offense, leading the team in rushing and completing two touchdown passes for more than 10 yards in 25 mph winds during Saturday's state championship game.

Also named to the second team all-state offense was Marcuse Gasaway, who complimented Mitchell in the backfield with solid running and tackle breaking ability.

Low was given all-state honorable mention. Low played linebacker, half back and receiver for the Yellowjackets. He scored the third touchdown and made the final interception which gave Alto the opportunity to complete the game and win the state finals Saturday. The Alto Yellowjackets went 14-0 on the season, winning the Class A Division I state championship and continuing a 28-game winning streak.

The Jackets are expected to stay in Class A during UIL realignment in February 2008.

Mumphrey, Scott, Low and Mitchell are all seniors and will graduate this spring. Gasaway is a junior and is expected to return to Alto's line-up next fall.