Thunderstruck
Storms stop play for season openers
The Mavericks opened their 2025 campaign Friday night at Powell and completed one half before lightning forced suspension. The game was slated to resume Saturday at Scarbro Stadium but was later canceled and ruled no contest.
Anderson County darted out to an 18-0 lead and was ahead 18-7 when play was halted. Powell quarterback Deuce Rodgers exited the game in the first half with an injury.
Freshman quarterback JD Gillum, son of head Coach Davey Gillum, made an immediate impact in his high school debut. He tossed touchdown passes on the Mavericks’ first two possessions, a 6-yard strike to Brayden Sharpe midway through the first quarter and another to Deameion Leavell from the same distance.
The defense also contributed when Gabe St. John intercepted a fake field goal attempt and returned it 81 yards for a touchdown.
Gillum didn’t finish the first half due to medical reasons. He was, however, preparing to return when play was suspended early in the third stanza.
“I think everyone saw what we did and JD was about to come back in, and that game was over,” said assistant head coach and athletic director Gary Terry.
“Their QB was injured, and with both teams having big games Thursday, it was declared no contest rather than risk further injuries.”
Last year, a weather cancellation against Science Hill in Johnson City was also ruled no contest.
Despite the outcome, Coach Gillum liked what he saw.
“Overall, I was pleased,” he said. “JD orchestrated at a high level from the start. The offensive line was strong in both the run game and pass protection. Jayzon Thompson made big plays, Rocky Brown ran and blocked well. I felt we would’ve picked up where we left off.”
Gillum also praised the defense.
“Yashawn Campbell gave Powell fits with multiple sacks, and St. John had that huge Pick 6,” he said. “Our line, linebackers and defensive backs did a solid job holding them to one score. We still need to clean up our tackling, but we were gaining control as the game went on.”
Anderson County (0-0) will host Knoxville Catholic Thursday. The Irish opened their season with a 20-6 win at Riverdale.
“We have a huge test this week,” Gillum said.
