N※N

Shelbyville RB Robert Bailey named The Sporting News Tennessee Player of the Week for Week 6 | Sporting News

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. player-of-the-week-for-week-6-sporting-news.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, October 7th 2025 at 12:59 GMT by Sporting News
          ^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Vote for the Top Individual Tennessee High‑School Football Performer of Week 6 (Sept 22‑28)

The Tennessee High‑School Football Association (THSFA) has released its latest “Vote for the Top Individual Performer” ballot, inviting fans, coaches, and players to name the standout athlete from the week of September 22‑28. The ballot, posted on the Sporting News site and the THSFA website, offers a chance to honor the most impressive individual showing on the gridiron during the opening stretch of the 2025 high‑school season.

How the Voting Works

The ballot is simple: three names appear, each with a short bio, a highlight video (linked from the THSFA YouTube channel), and key statistics from the week. Readers can cast a single vote for the performer they believe earned the most distinction. Votes are accepted until Friday, September 29, and the winner will be announced on Thursday, October 4, with a feature article in the upcoming issue of The Tennessee Star.

The article explains that voting is open to anyone with a registered THSFA account—this includes students, parents, coaches, and fans across the state. If you do not already have an account, a quick sign‑up on the THSFA portal will give you access to the full ballot and additional player profiles.

The Contenders

1. Jalen Carter – Offensive Lineman, West‑Middle Tennessee HS
   Carter showcased a stellar week of protection and run blocking for the West‑Middle Tigers. In a 48‑14 victory over the rival East‑Kentucky Coyotes, he allowed zero sacks and was a key contributor in the Tigers’ 75‑yard rushing attack. The highlight reel demonstrates his 3‑foot reach and split‑step timing that thwarted 12 opposing rushers. The statistical snapshot shows he had 10 pancake blocks and 1 forced fumble.

2. Tyrell James – Wide Receiver, South‑City Panthers
   James set a new school record with four touchdowns in a single game against the North‑Shore Eagles. The Panthers’ 32‑7 win hinged on James’ speed and route running. He hauled in 6 receptions for 112 yards and two of the team’s touchdowns. The highlight clip captures a 70‑yard catch that broke a third‑down conversion and a spectacular touchdown celebration that has already become a meme among the Panthers’ fan base.

3. Coleen “Cole” Martinez – Linebacker, Hill‑Central Bulldogs
   Martinez was the defensive cornerstone of Hill‑Central’s 24‑21 upset of the top‑ranked River‑City Rams. He recorded 15 tackles (12 solo), two sacks, and forced a fumble that the Bulldogs capitalized on for a touchdown. The video highlights his aggressive pursuit and disciplined coverage in the secondary. Martinez’s coach praised his leadership and his ability to “read the play before it happens.”

The Significance of Week 6

Week 6 marked a pivotal point in the 2025 season, as teams moved from opening scrimmage play to facing real conference opponents. The THSFA notes that this week’s games often reveal which players have adapted to the faster tempo and heavier competition. For many of the highlighted athletes, the performances showcased a maturation of skill that could carry them into the postseason and, for a select few, into collegiate recruitment pipelines.

Why the Vote Matters

Beyond the excitement of voting, the THSFA stresses that the “Top Individual Performer” award is more than a trophy; it’s a platform for athletes to gain exposure to college scouts and professional recruiters. Winners receive a digital badge to display on social media, a feature on the THSFA’s Hall of Fame page, and a signed commemorative trophy presented at the annual state awards banquet.

The article links to the Tennessee High School Athletic Association’s “Player of the Week” section, where each week’s standout performances are archived. These archives allow coaches to benchmark athletes against historical standards and help players gauge where they stand relative to state records.

Looking Ahead

The THSFA’s commentary suggests that the upcoming weeks will bring new drama as rivalries intensify and the first playoff qualifiers loom. Readers are encouraged to keep an eye on the weekly “Player of the Week” and “Top Individual Performer” categories as the season develops. In the meantime, cast your vote for the athlete you think has made the biggest impact this week.

Key Takeaways
- Voting is open until September 29; the winner announced October 4.
- Three players—Jalen Carter (OL), Tyrell James (WR), and Coleen Martinez (LB)—are up for the honor.
- The award highlights both on‑field performance and potential for future advancement.

For full details on the candidates and to submit your vote, visit the THSFA voting portal linked in the original Sporting News article.