MONTICELLO – When Lawrence County’s defense swarms to thefootball, expect junior middle linebacker Marcus Brown to be in themiddle of the pack. Brown accounted for 16 tackles last Fridaynight in Lawrence County’s 62-21 trouncing of the FlorenceEagles.

For his performance, Brown (6-0, 185, jr.) has been selected TheDAILY LEADER’S Defensive Player Of The Week. His tackle totalincluded 1 stop for a sack, 2 stops for a loss and one forcedfumble.

“We work as a family and swarm to the ball,” said Brown. “Wehave to get better every week.”

Judging from his team’s performance, the Cougars (3-1) appear tobe getting better every week since a season-opening setback atPetal.

LCHS head coach Mike Davis works mainly with the offense butBrown’s performance has caught his attention several times. JayLivingston is the team’s defensive coordinator.

“Marcus plays downhill,” said Davis. “When they (offense) snapthe ball, you want your linebackers to come down hill and makecontact.”

Brown’s offseason work ethic is an example for the other playersto follow, too. “Marcus works his butt off in the weight room,”said Davis. “We were looking for some linebackers and he steppedin. He has been a pleasant surprise for us. He seems to be gettingbetter every week.”

Brown played defensive end last year. He bench presses 220pounds and squats with 425.

“Football-wise Marcus is one of our smartest players,” saidDavis. His sister, Kaisha Brown, is an LCHS Beta Club member. Theirfather, Quitman Brown, played running back and defensive end forMonticello High School.

Brown, who wears jersey No. 18, said he wanted to share therecognition with his teammates. “We have to work as a team. Youcan’t do a good job if your defensive line doesn’t help. They takecare of the blockers and I make the tackle. I like to blitz.”

The LCHS defensive line includes Dontez Daggins at end, andMonterio Taylor at tackle, Carlton Parkman and Byron Hammond attackle.

Also working at linebacker are Kendrick Barnes and CorneliusSibley. In the secondary, Rio Martin and Ford Johnson are atcornerback. Matthew Wells and Dylan Lea are at safety.

In his spare time, Brown enjoys horseback riding and watchingfootball on television. His favorite NFL team is New England.Patriots’ wide receiver Randy Moss is his favorite player.

The Cougars seek a fourth straight win Friday night when theyhost the McComb Tigers for a division game. Brown will be ready tomake some more tackles.