Playing wide receiver at East Mississippi Community College may be one of the most valuable positions in the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC).
That is why when former West Point High School standout Jason Brownlee had a chance to become the latest in a long line of talented receivers, he did not have to think long.
Brownlee is navigating his first season with EMCC with the same work ethic and flare for the dramatics that helped make him a two-time Mississippi High School Activities Association (MHSAA) state champion at West Point.
“It’s challenge but everything in football is a challenge,” Brownlee said. “You either step your game up a level or you go home. This is the same excitement as high school. You are out there with your teammates trying to win games and championships.”
No. 1 EMCC (4-0) continues its latest championship quest with a road trip to the No. 20 East Central Community College (3-1).
Kickoff for EMCC’s final non-division game of the season is set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday at Bailey Stadium in Decatur.
EMCC has won nine straight games against the South Division. East Central is one of the state’s biggest surprises. After finishing 1-8 a year ago, the Warriors are escaping with four games decided by a touchdown or less.
“This team has a lot more growing to do,” Brownlee said. “On offense, we are just beginning to scratch the surface. When you play new guys, you have to see where all the pieces fit together. This team is hungry. For me personally, never been on a team with this many talented players. Each day is fun. It’s a new challenge each week, and we attack it head-on.”
EMCC has scored 50 or more points in four straight games for the first time since 2014. The average margin of victory is 42.5 points per game.
Still, the Lions are looking for consistency.
EMCC has not had a consistent knockout-blow this season. The Lions have also been hurt by penalties. The point totals have been skewed by special teams and defensive scores.
“We have two capable quarterbacks, really great running backs and the offensive line is playing well,” Brownlee said. “Anytime, we don’t score in a couple of minutes, there is cause for concern. The main thing is consistency. It doesn’t matter who is on the field, the coaches expect us to execute.”
Michigan State transfer Messiah deWeaver started the first two games at quarterback. He has since given way to former Itawamba AHS standout Vijay Miller.
In last week’s 54-13 win over Mississippi Delta Community College, both quarterbacks were 12 of 17, with Miller accounting for all three passing touchdowns.
One touchdown covered 10 yards and went to Brownlee, it was his first junior college score. For the season, Brownlee has seven receptions for 63 yards.
“Jason has worked so hard since his first day here,” EMCC offensive coordinator David Boykin said. “His size (6-foot-3, 185-pounds) makes him a good target. He has good speed and great hands. One of those who can make the jump ball catches look routine. You can tell when a freshman gets comfortable and he reached that stage early.”
Overall, Miller and deWeaver have divided 106 pass completions to 15 different receivers. The Lions are averaging 336 yards per game through the air with 12 touchdowns.
“Our biggest games are still ahead,” Brownlee said. “The goal is to be 1-0 each week. We have to get better each week and keep adding to those 1-0 weeks.”
Follow Dispatch sports writer Scott Walters on Twitter @dispatchscott
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 34 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 34 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.
