As we head into the final weeks of the TSSAA football regular season, the races for the state's top individual honor are beginning to come into view.
Every year the TSSAA names a Tennessee Titans Mr. Football winner in each classification, as well as a Kicker of the Year, based on performances throughout the regular season along with academics and character.
Initially five Mr. Football semifinalists will be named by the TSSAA in each classification, after fielding nominations from high school coaches and media members across the state. Then a committee of Tennessee high school sports writers will meet to determine the winners in each class.
For the remainder of the regular season, each week, The Tennessean will rank the top five players on our
Mr. Football watchlist for every classification, highlighting the athletes we believe have the best shot of claiming the award in December.
Here's The Tennessean's Mr. Football watchlist for Class 2A entering Week 9 of the TSSAA football season.
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Ranking TSSAA Mr. Football prospects in Class 2A
1. Kenton Smith
Huntingdon | Senior | QB
Why chosen: Smith has the Mustangs undefeated through eight games, completing 30-of-46 passes for 506 yards and 13 touchdowns, while rushing 109 times for 966 yards and 16 touchdowns.
2. Jamarkus Pittman
MASE | Senior | DL
Why chosen: The Ole Miss commit is up to 44 tackles on the season with 27 for a loss, 12 sacks and an interception returned 85 yards for a touchdown.
3. Dallas Covington
East Nashville | Senior | QB
Why chosen: The Western Kentucky commit is 69-of-96 passing for 1,373 yards with 15 touchdowns and an interception. He’s also rushed 57 times for 632 yards and five TDs.
4. Zaiden Humphrey
Marion County | Senior | ATH
Why chosen: Humphrey leads the undefeated Warriors with 70 carries for 586 yards and 14 touchdowns, along with 23 catches for 335 yards and three touchdowns. On defense he’s recorded 43 tackles, four pass break ups, three TFLs and a fumble recovery.
5. Kason Young
East Robertson | Senior | QB
Why chosen: Young has completed 89-of-123 passes for 1,568 yards with 22 touchdowns and three interceptions for the 8-0 squad. He's also rushed 35 times for 308 yards and five touchdowns.
Do you have a player worthy of Mr. Football consideration? Email hcampbell@usatodayco.com with the athlete's information and season stats to be considered for our watchlist.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Who leads TSSAA's Mr. Football race in Class 2A? We rank our top five entering Week 9
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