EADS — Briarcrest started its season off with a 44-7 blowout win over the ECS on Aug. 20, and there were several playmakers who shined.
Octavius Flynn had three total touchdowns (two rushing) while first time starter and defensive back Isaiah Folorunsho had two interceptions.
But the performance that caught the eyes of fans was Saints starting quarterback Cayden Dixon who made a big impact with his arm and feet.
"It was always apart of my plan to use my feet," said Dixon. "I have to run when I have to and keep extending the plays and keep it alive."
Dixon finished the night with over 200 yards passing and three touchdowns. He dropped in a pair of deep balls for touchdowns, including a 48-yarder Carter Tucker at the end of the first half and a 40-yarder
to Caden Sage to begin the second half.
Briarcrest coach Phil Massey said he feels that Dixon's performance was big for his teams confidence as it moves to 1-0.
"Obviously he had a great night and all that does is help build confidence in those guys and in our team," said Massey. "We'll get back at it tomorrow and correct our mistakes and continue to get better.
The three-start junior is ranked as the No. 35 prospect in Tennessee, according to 247Sports Composite. He holds offers from Baylor, Colorado, Memphis, Tulane and Liberty.
Dixon got it going early after an interception set up Briarcrest's first drive two minutes into the game. It only took him and the Saints four plays to strike when Dixon found Flynn on a flat route that resulted in a touchdown.
ECS (0-1) applied pressure defensively, but Dixon's quick thinking and strong arm lead the Saints to touchdowns on nearly each drive.
Dixon credited the win to his coaching staff and his teammates willingness to be coached.
"Preparation got us here," he said. "Working all summer and following our coaches standard got us here. Now we won our first game, and I'm very excited for the rest."
Briarcrest will return home next week where they will see the powerhouse 2A Fairley Bulldogs Fri, Aug. 28 .
This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: How Memphis football target Cayden Dixon powered Briarcrest to TSSAA win
