Charles Wilson has been making his presence felt on theBrookhaven football team for three years., The senior running backis recognized for his shifty moves and breakaway speed.

Against the Florence Eagles last Friday night, Wilson explodedfor 185 yards rushing and four touchdowns as the Panthers roared toa 42-0 victory, notching their second shutout of the season.Included was a 94-yard scoring dash by Wilson, the longest of hiscareer. He lost a shoe along the way but still made it to the endzone.

For his accomplishments, Wilson has been selected The DAILYLEADER’s Offensive Player of the Week for the sixth week of the2006 campaign.

Wilson (5-9, 180) said his favorite play is called a Zone,similar to a dive play. He takes the handoff from quarterbackCharles (Bobo) Rancifer. “I just read the defense. After thehandoff, I step towards the middle and read my blockers.”

Wilson complimented his offensive line. “I can’t do anythingwithout them. They are handling their assignments and gettingbetter every game. If they block, we win.”

He is the son of Charlie and Brenda Wilson. His father was astandout runner for BHS in the early 1970s, signing a scholarshipwith Jackson State University.

The Panthers are off to a 4-2 start this season and stand 2-1 inthe Region 6-4A race. They have a big region game Thursday night atTerry.

“This game has state playoff motivation,” said Wilson. “We bothare good on offense and defense. Whoever plays hardest willwin.”

Ole Brook head coach Tucker Peavey has watched Wilson steadilydevelop and mature since joining the varsity his sophomore year. Hewas part of the 2004 state championship team.

“Charles is having a great senior year,” said Peavey. “He isvery comfortable and knowledgeable. He runs with great vision andhe is getting better.”

Wilson uses his speed and quickness to give defenders aheadache. He has the ability to change directions and turn on adime. He runs the 40-yard dash in 4.58. In the weight room, hebenches 235 pounds and squats with 395.

This season he has rushed for 836 yards and 14 touchdowns.Working in Brook’s offensive line are Darion Smith, Skyler Smith,Taylor Newman, Courtney Clark and Grady Autman. The tight end isChase McIntyre. Rancifer and fullback Cody Ratcliff do a lot ofblocking for Wilson.

“I try to understand what Coach (Mike) Powell is teaching ouroffensive line,” said Wilson, “so I can cut off their blocks.”

Wilson said he enjoys playing for Peavey. “I just love CoachPeavey. When I started doing things right, I started to enjoy thegame more.”

In his spare time, Wilson enjoys hanging out with his teammates.They often wind up a McDonald’s Restaurant, his favoriteeatery.

He celebrates his 18th birthday, Friday. Wilson has a youngerbrother, 14-year-old Ty, who is in the eighth grade atAlexander.

Asked about his future, Wilson said he definitely wants to playcollege. football. “Right now, I’m trying to get my grades up.”

His favorite subject is Human Anatomy. He enjoys English class,taught by Mrs. King.