Top Performers from Round 1 of the Playoffs

Round 1 of the AHSAA playoffs are in the books and we had some incredible matchups around the state. Let’s take a look at some of the top performers from Round 1. Evan Smith Evan Smith 5'11" | 170 lbs | ATH Oak Mountain | 2022 State AL - Oak Mountain QB (2022) Smith returned from injury to make the start in Round 1 and he delivered with arguably the best performance in the state in the Eagles’ Class 7A playoff win over James Clemons. The senior completed 12 of 17 passes for 186 yards and 2 touchdowns. He also added 21 carries for 241 yards and three more scores. Smith is committed to Northwestern to play defensive back and has shown to be one of the best all-around athletes in the state. Ty Mims - Baldwin County QB/ATH (2022) Mims did a little bit of everything in Baldwin County’s Class 6A upset win over Helena. The Southern Miss commit went 12 for 20 passing for 171 yards. Mims recorded 29 carries for 172 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a punt return for a touchdown. Mims has been one of the best overall athletes on the coast this year and was crucial in leading one of the biggest upsets of the first round. Braylon McReynolds - McGill-Toolen RB (2022) McReynolds delivered a huge night in the Yellow Jackets Class 6A road win over Pelham. The explosive back went for 292 yards on 28 carries and 2 touchdowns in the first round win. The South Alabama commit has been one of the most versatile backs on the coast and has been averaging around 10 yards per carry on the year. He was the workhorse Friday night to lead McGill-Toolen to a second round matchup with Hueytown. Zach Sims - Thompson QB (2024) Sims played extremely effective making the start for the injured Conner Harrell Conner Harrell 6'1" | 190 lbs | QB Thompson | 2022 State AL . Sims went 9 of 10 passing for 176 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Warriors’ Class 7A first round win over Florence. It was an impressive first start for the sophomore QB who played with a ton of poise. He showed good accuracy and decision making while running the offense. Keep your eyes on Sims in the class of ’24. Thompson looks to be in good hands at quarterback. Michael Sharpe - Pinson Valley RB Sharpe went for a huge night in the Class 6A win for Pinson Valley. He had 15 carries for 147 yards and two touchdowns including the game-winning run with under a minute to go against Muscle Shoals. The versatile back has been great for the Indians this year and they're looking to get their 3rd title in 4 years. Sharpe is committed to Arkansas State and looks to be an impact player at the next level.