The 6-foot-3, 210-pound Jefferson High quarterback has been known to flatten a few unprepared defensive backs -- or, more likely, simply torch them with his arm.
For an example, look no further than last Friday's 27-21 win for the Dragons over North Hall. The senior signal caller keyed an impressive comeback victory over the Trojans, rushing for 127 yards, passing for 144 and scoring three touchdowns -- including the winning score with just over three minutes to play.
For his efforts, Shirreffs has been named the Gainesville Jaycees Player of the Week, as presented by Jacobs Media.
Earlier this week, Access North Georgia.com sports editor Morgan Lee caught up with Shirreffs to talk about Friday's exciting victory, the Dragons rebound after a season-opening loss and what the future holds. To watch the video, simply click "play" below.
Player of the Week: Bryant Shirreffs of Jefferson from WDUN TV on Vimeo.
Shirreffs knew he would have to take on a key role for the Dragons in 2012, but after featuring for the Dragons since his sophomore campaign, the quaterback was ready for the challenge -- despite losing four of his top five offensive linemen from Jefferson's 2011 state playoff squad. Jefferson also experienced injuries in the preseason, including to key running backs, and the 2012 campaign got off to a rocky start in a 22-7 loss to arch-rival Commerce -- which broke a five-game winning streak over the Tigers.
But Jefferson has rebounded since, winning two straight, thanks in no small part to the play of Shirreffs -- who passed for 1,873 yards and 19 touchdowns, along with just two interceptions as a junior.
The quarterback has not been alone, however, as the Dragons offensive line has continued to improve, while tight end Donnie Hatfield has also showed his ability (Hatfield caught seven passes for 71 yards in last week's win). Jefferson's defense has also stepped up -- just in time for the Region 8-AA schedule, which will commence on Sept. 28 for the Dragons after a bye this Friday.
Each week this football season the Jaycees will team with Jacobs Media to present a Player of the Week award. At the end of the season, the Jaycees will also present a Player of the Year award, as well as name a recipient of a $2,500 scholarship to the most deserving senior.
2012 Gainesville Jaycees Players of the Week
WEEK 1: Tyler Hubbard, quarterback, Banks County
WEEK 2: Gainesville defense
WEEK 3: Bryant Shirreffs, quarterback, Jefferson
Jefferson quarterback Bryant Shirreffs warms up before the Dragons' 27-21 win at North Hall on Friday in Gainesville.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2012/9/253059