Major props for Pasco’s Jamie Byrd

Posted Sep 18, 2009 by Eddie Daniels

Updated Sep 18, 2009 at 02:49 PM

Although just a junior this season, Pasco safety Jamie Byrd has the attention of those on the opposite sideline. Talking about tonight’s game against Pasco, Bushnell South Sumter coach Inman Spencer had high praise for Byrd.

“No. 2, that safety, I think he might be the best high school safety we’ve seen since Clint Hart played here,” Spencer said. “Honestly, he covers ground like a cheetah. He’s honestly a great, great football player and his makeup speed … he’s deep at safety and all of a sudden he’s making a tackle two yards behind the line of scrimmage is pretty impressive.”

Hart, a 1995 South Sumter graduate is the starting free safety for the San Diego Chargers and is in his seventh NFL season. He also spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League.

In 93 NFL contests, Hart has racked up 319 tackles, 10 interceptions, two touchdowns, two sacks, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Last season as a starting middle linebacker, Byrd led the Pirates with 83 tackles. He also collected two interceptions and one half sack.

When we put together our high school football preview section, Pasco coach Tom McHugh picked Byrd as the brains of the team because “he will knock your brains out.”

Pasco travels to South Sumter tonight. If you can’t make there, no worries. Logon to http://www.wdcf1350.com for live game action. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m.