Independence Patriots Defensive Gem, Tyson Clawson 

The Patriots completely dominated East Mecklenburg on Friday night with a 33-0 drubbing without allowing a score. The defense was superb led by their outstanding junior defensive end Tyson Clawson.

Clawson had multiple double digit tackles, including solos and many assists. He was credited with two quarterback sacks, then blocked a field goal attempt, intercepted a pass on the Patriots 30 yard line and returned the ball shaking off would be defenders to his opponents 13 yard line to set the Independence offense up in excellent field position to score a Patriot touchdown.

On the blocked field goal attempt, the ball, kicker and Clawson all arrived at the same time, barely leaving the holder’s hand for the perfectly timed block without making contact with the kicker. According to the coaches, writers, and fans he just played with complete utter abandon all night long and dominated on the defensive side of the ball for the Patriots. Clawson seemed to be constantly in the the Eagles backfield applying pressure on the quarterback forcing hurried passes that fell incomplete.

Entering the game Clawson had a team leading 6 sacks and now has accumulated 8 sacks on the season. He also has around 50 tackles or more for the Patriots in the six games played.

Other defensive players who deserve recognition are Malik Kelly with two quarterback sacks, RJ Spivey, Sirr Robinson, Ethan Safreit, who all played tough on the defensive line throughout the football game making a significant contribution to the victory.

The sports editor and writers at the Mint Hill Times want to congratulate Tyson Clawson for being selected this week’s “Featured Player of the Week.”