LEESBURG, Ga. (WALB) — Lee County linebacker Jace Murray recorded 14 tackles, two sacks and three tackles for loss in the Trojans’ 23-20 win over Carol City, a team ranked 11th in the country.

Murray said the team locked in before the game.

“The main thing is we had to lock in the locker room. About 10 to 15 minutes before the game, everybody got in this big circle, and we instantly locked in. I was crying before the game — I got pictures to show it. I knew what it was going to be. We had to bring the physicality. We had to make them quit,” Murray said.

Lee County’s defense held the opposing offense for the majority of the game. A pick-six by K.J. Streeter gave the Trojans an early score.

Defense built on chemistry

Murray said the defense’s chemistry sets it apart.

“Mainly the chemistry. We know we’ve got each other’s back in everything we do — We know we’ve got each other,” Murray said. “Every level, from the D-line to linebackers to DBs, we know we’ve got each other. That’s it.”

Team sets sights on state title

Murray said the team is aiming for a state championship.

“We know we’re going to win state. We’re going to work for it. We’ve got the best work ethic. I guarantee you,” Murray said.

Lee County faces Sequoyah this week and TCC in the coming weeks.

Support system

Murray credited his family and friends for their support.

“I love everybody around me — my friends, my family, everybody you see: Dominique, Bob, Jaden Upshaw, Chavez Dixon, my dad, my mom, everybody you see me around,” Murray said. “They’re going to support me, and I’m going to support them. We’re going to support each other like no one else.”

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