High School football in the state of Texas has turned into track meets highlighted by offensive fire power. Explosive offenses dominate statewide and offenses putting up 50 or more points on a given Friday have become the norm. It seems as though the defensive side of the ball has become an afterthought, a place where coaches put their second most talented players, but not in Rockwall, Texas. For the Jackets, a complete team effort, including gritty and talented play on the defensive side of the ball, has been the theme throughout their spectacular unblemished season. The Jackets of Rockwall High School entered their district contest against Rowlett last Friday night with the intent on keeping their perfect record just that. Running back Chris Warren has been the gas pedal that has floored the Jackets explosive offense but on this day it was the defensive efforts of junior James Taylor that stole the show. Taylor was all over the field and used his speed and athleticism to frustrate the Eagles offense time and time again. The junior led a defensive performance that held the Rowlett attack to only 21 points and, most importantly, 4 turnovers. James recorded 2 of the aforementioned turnovers as he intercepted Eagle quarterback Josh Lewis twice and returning one of those interceptions for a touchdown. After a roaring 35-0 start for the Jackets, Rowlett answered with two scores of their own and it seemed as though the Eagles had settled in, looking to pull within striking distance. Rockwall used a 21 point 4th quarter to shut the door on Rowlett, largely behind Taylor’s 55 yard interception return for a score. This summer at PC, James, through consistent hard work, earned his success far before he stepped on the field. Here at PC, we know that preparation and commitment are the driving forces behind a successful season. Taylor and the Jackets are prime examples of this, and they are far from being done. For his efforts, James Taylor is the Performance Course Player of the Week. Congrats James! Go Jackets!