McEachern’s DeNard Ford has success against bigger players

How about McEachern’s DeNard Ford?

The 5-foot-5, 145-pounder plays cornerback and also serves as the team’s long snapper. “DeNard has great instinct, vertical jump and body control,” coach Kyle Hockman said. “He is a very smart player who never gets himself out of position. His toughness is probably the main factor for his success.” Ford has 5 interceptions.

Size isn’t everything in high school football. Here are some smaller players having success in the sport:

*Keyshawn Sibley, Redan: The 5-4 sophomore has six interceptions at defensive back and also returns punts.

*Jabril Young, Duluth: The 5-4, 140-pounder plays defensive back and tailback. He benches 270 lbs., runs the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds and has a 3.5 GPA.

*Ian Armstrong, Lakeside-DeKalb: The 5-6, 165-pound noseguard has a “motor that never stops,” according to his coach.

*Deion Sellers, Cedar Grove: The 5-6, 145-pounder plays tailback and also makes special appearances as “Wildcat Quarterback” to change the tempo. “Deion is considered one of the best players in my career at Cedar Grove,” coach Ray Bonner said.

*William Kennon, St. Pius: The 5-8, 160-pounder starts at offensive guard. “William has ‘grit’ … he’s not afraid of anything,” said coach Paul Standard. “He goes up against opponents who always outweigh him — sometimes by more than 140 pounds.”

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