Corsicana Daily Sun, Corsicana, Texas

Corsicana Tigers

November 12, 2009

Williams: Cool under fire

Tigers’ LB Martin Davis has been a stabilizing force

Double-digit tackles are the norm for junior Tiger linebacker Martin Davis. In fact, he has accomplished the feat in all 10 Corsicana games to date.

Davis is the Tigers’ leading tackler and from his linebacker position is tied for the team lead in interceptions with three.

“Martin makes good decisions and is calm under pressure,” said Tiger head coach Phil Castles following a playoff week practice. “He is our speaking captain on defense and shoulders a lot of responsibility.”

With his 132 tackles on the season, Davis is the leader of a defense that has found its way the last few ball games. The Tiger defense held No. 3-state ranked and No. 1 Dallas Morning News area-ranked Waxahachie to their lowest point total of the season at 21. In a playoff must-win game against Cleburne at Tiger Stadium, the defense again rose to the occasion and held Cleburne to their lowest offensive output of the year yielding only 13 points.

“We try to get better every week,” said Davis who had 15 tackles against upcoming playoff opponent West Mesquite in zero week. “For me it is all about reading my keys and knowing where to be.”

Davis has obviously thrived in Castles defensive scheme, and coupled with his instinctive natural ability he has become a tremendous force for the Tigers.

“I missed a lot of tackles last year,” admitted Davis.” I have just worked hard, and the coaches put us through drills that really help. I am much stronger than I was last season.”

A big reason the Tigers are playing in Week 11 is the play of Davis and his 10 on-the-field defenders. Week 1, the Tigers surrendered five touchdowns to West Mesquite, but have aspirations to improve on that total when they travel to DeSoto to face the Wranglers in the first round of the playoffs.

Pressure and containment on a multi-talented West Mesquite quarterback, Trevonne Boykin, will be key. Defensive linemen Christian White and Ike Hunter have four sacks each, and Davis is second with three.

“I really focus on making a sure tackle,” said Davis whose game-high 18 tackles game against pass happy Midlothian in game six. “I have worked with my uncle and my coaches and have really improved my game.”

His improved game is part of a much improved Tiger team from zero week. The Tigers and Davis have a chance to show just how much they have improved on Friday night in DeSoto against West Mesquite.

“The kids look to Martin to provide leadership.” Castles said. “Martin is a good young man and a fine football player.”

Corsicana Tigers

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