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H.S. FOOTBALL: Male Athlete of the Week, Demetrius Burton has career week for Greencastle-Antrim


Greencastle-Antrim running back Demetrius Burton was poised to break out in the middle of last season.

After a slew of injuries to others put the then freshman in position for carries, Burton ran with the role, and in three games, he racked up 259 yards on 34 carries, including a 183-yard performance.

But Burton fell victim to the injury bug after his third game and missed the rest of the season with a shoulder injury. Now in his sophomore season, it hasn't taken Burton long to get back on track.

In a 51-13 thrashing of Littlestown last week, Burton led the way. He finished with 189 yards on just 13 carries (14.54 yards per carry) and he scored three touchdowns, which were the first three of his high school career. He is the Public Opinion Male Athlete of the Week.

"I think it was a really good game all around," Burton said. "The offensive line did all of their assignments, and that's what really got me going. They opened up the holes, and I just did my job from there."

Greencastle coach Chuck Tinninis said, "Demetrius had some nice runs and he ran really hard. I think he's more comfortable in the offense, and he's blocking better."

Burton is the Devils leading rusher early in the season. Through two games, he has 245 yards on 23 carries, and he keeps getting more confident with each strong game.

"I think this shows that I can run with these guys at this level," Burton said.

Health continues to be a concern for Burton, who's also had issues with his knees in the past.

"The biggest thing I try to do is take care of my body," Burton said. "I have a special brace to keep the knee in place, and I just have to prepare for the hits and cuts involved with football."

Tinninis said, "If he can stay healthy and keep a good attitude, I think he'll get his carries along with everyone else."

Burton may not be the most experienced back in the Blue Devils' stable, but if he keeps up this run of early success, there's no question that he can be one of the most successful.