MEADVILLE — Franklin County defensive end Brandon Collinswanted to make sure the Bulldogs were going to the second round ofthe Class 3A state playoffs. Collins accounted for 12 tackles,including 4 quarterback sacks, in Franklin County’s 47-7 thrashingof the Raymond Rangers in the opening round of the playoffs.

For his performance, Collins (6-0, 220, sr.) has been selectedThe DAILY LEADER’s Defensive Player of the Week.

Franklin County head coach Grady McCluskey said Collins in anoverachiever at defensive end. “Brandon is a little undersized forhis position. He has a motor that doesn’t stop. He’s 100 miles perhour every play.

“He’s a leader for us,” said McCluskey. “He gives an all-outeffort every play. Brandon has worked hard in the weight room allsummer.”

In the weight room, Collins bench presses 300 pounds and squatswith 400.

For Collins, his chief responsibilities at defensive end are thepass rush and reading traps. He wears jersey No. 34, ticking offthe names of former NFL stars Bo Jackson, Herschel Walker and RickyWilliams who all wore that number.

Life as a defensive end can be demanding, especially for anundersized player. “It’s kind of hard because there’s a lot ofbigger guys I have to go against,” said Collins. “I would like toplay linebacker in college.”

Also in the Franklin County defensive line are nose tackleAndrew Williams, tackle Bo Tillman and end Josh Tillman. TheBulldogs believe in a strong work ethic in season and out ofseason.

“We practice hard every day and watch films,” said Collins. “Welisten to what coach tell us. We pay attention and do ourbest.”

Barbara Collins is his mother and Julius Robinson is his father.He celebrated his 18th birthday last Saturday, Nov. 4. His brotheris Julius Collins

Franklin County linebacker Mike Hunt has committed toMississippi State. Gary Rogers, Preston Griffith and Jordan Huntalso work at linebacker.

“I’m undecided about college but I want to play linebacker incollege,” said Collins.

“I really like computers,” said Collins. “I want to get readyfor the future.”

In his spare time, Collins said he enjoys playing collegefootball video games and working out.

The Bulldogs tackle Carthage in the second round Friday night inMeadville and Collins believes the Bulldogs will be ready for astrong challenge. “Carthage has two big receivers and a fastquarterback,” said Collins. “They have a big offensive line and abig fullback who is a power runner.”

Franklin County fans firmly believe their beloved Bulldogs canmake it all the way to the state championship game in Jackson nextmonth. Collins and his teammates feel the same way, too.