Photo by Andy Baxter
Da'Rick Rogers, Calhoun
Calhoun senior Da’Rick Rogers became Georgia’s all-time single-season pass catcher on Friday – even though he was limited to nine receptions for 81 yards – during a 13-10 loss to Buford in the Class AA state championship game.
The Yellowjackets entered the finale in the Georgia Dome with a 14-0 record. They also lost the title game last year to Buford, 45-21.
The 6-foot-3, 206-pound wide receiver, who had been averaging 156.5 yards during the playoffs, closed out his senior campaign with 1,647 yards. The previous state record was 1,641 yards by Tavarres King of Habersham Central in 2007.
Calhoun coach Hal Lamb calls Rogers, who has committed to the University of Georgia, "the best athlete I've ever coached. There’s no doubt he is the best player Calhoun ever has had."
Lamb believes that his superstar has broken nearly every school record for receiving. He calls this year's clash with Jefferson County – in which Rogers had 10 catches for 216 yards and four touchdowns – the best game of his career.
He explained, "Jefferson County is blessed with a lot of athletes and he just took over the game. He's a special kid with awesome tools, and he had an awesome year. He's got size and strength, hands and speed. His jumping ability and strength are his best attributes. He has a ways to go on route running."
Lamb sees a bright future for Rogers at the University of Georgia, noting, "He has a great chance to go in and play right away."