Wesson middle linebacker Barron Miller has helped the Cobras toa perfect 7-0 start this season. The junior defender had a bignight against the Loyd Star Hornets, accounting for 11 tackles anda pass interception in Wesson’s 36-19 win over the Hornets.

That performance has earned Miller The DAILY LEADER’s DefensivePlayer of the Week honors.

Wesson head coach Tommy Clopton had to make some major adjustmentsearly in the season due to injuries to defensive starters KyleCross and Austin Graham. Miller was working at defensive end whenClopton moved him to middle linebacker.

“Barron started this year as a defensive end but we had to move himdue to injuries at the first of the year,” said Clopton. “He playshard on every down and has a knack for finding the football.”

Overall, Clopton praised his team’s performance against Region 6-2Aarchrival Loyd Star. “Our defensive effort was superb Fridaynight.”

Jacob Fischer intercepted two passes for Wesson. Gage Wilson madenine tackles.

Miller, a 6-foot, 190-pound junior, said he has enjoyed his move tomiddle linebacker. “You get a good look at everything and you get alot of hitting. You see the whole field. I love middlelinebacker.”

Asked about his team’s game plan for Loyd Star, Barron said, “Wewanted to stop their speed backs (Marquis Hayes and Marquis Sims)at the line of scrimmage. We wanted to make the tackle before theygot going past the line of scrimmage.”

Miller said his tackle total required a team effort. “Give creditto our defensive line and (linebacker) Gage Wilson. They turned theplays inside for me to make the tackle.”

Working in Wesson’s defensive line are Derrick Lyles, MorganRobinson, Corey McPherson and Zack Wilson.

Miller said Wesson’s defense has lived up to its preseasonexpectations. “We had a lot of starters (nine) coming back. We knowwhat’s going on and we have some speed, too.”

Asked about his team’s chances at winning the region title, Millersaid, “We need to continue working hard every day in practice if wewant a championship.”

He said defensive coordinator Phillip Knight prepares the team wellfor each game. “Coach Knight takes time to make sure everyoneunderstands the game plan.”

Miller is the 17-year-old son of Michael and Sarah Miller. He has a13-year-old sister, Sarah Beth.

In his spare time, Miller said he enjoys hunting and fishing. He’san Alabama Crimson Tide fan. His favorite NFL player is SanFrancisco linebacker Patrick Willis. Ray Lewis is a closesecond.

Looking to the future, Miller said he plans to pursue a career incoaching and teaching.