Weston Bryan’s MVP performance: Game prep, mindset change propel Lee County quarterback

LEESBURG – Lee County quarterback Weston Bryan credited improved game preparation and a shift in mindset as key factors in his success on the football field this season. Bryan rushed for 156 yards and scored four touchdowns in an MVP performance Saturday, leading the Trojans to a 35-23 victory over defending state champions Thomas County Central at Trojan Field in Leesburg.

“I think I’m playing better compared to last year because of the preparation going into each game,” Bryan said Sunday. “Coach Thompson has really done a fantastic job giving me all the looks and reads I’ll see that week in practice, so going into the game, we know what’s going to happen. The offensive line has been extremely stout, and I can’t forget the running backs who block extremely well too, allowing me to play looser and with way more confidence.”

Bryan also noted his change in mindset. “Another difference is that I’ve just had a different approach going into games. Last year, it was more of a ‘don’t mess up’ thought process, and now it’s ‘let loose, have fun, and give it all for my teammates, family, and the community.’”

Bryan’s two second-half touchdowns sealed the win for the No. 2-ranked Trojans, just two weeks after his career-best performance in Moultrie, where Lee County defeated powerhouse Colquitt County.

“Weston is playing at another level right now,” Lee County Head Coach Dean Fabrizio said after the game. “He’s a three-year starter and playing with a lot of confidence. He did a fantastic job today.”

In what could be considered the best game of his high school career, the 6-foot-3, 240-pound Bryan rushed for 156 yards on 26 carries, scored four touchdowns, and completed 8 of 13 passes for 134 yards.

Bryan will likely need another standout performance this Friday when 5A defending state champion Coffee comes to Leesburg.

“People thought we were crazy for scheduling Colquitt County and then the defending state champions back-to-back,” Fabrizio said. “But we’ve taken down two, with one more to go. Our team is playing good football and getting better each week.”

Friday’s Trojan War between Lee County and Coffee is set for 7:30 p.m. at Trojan Field. The Coffee Trojans have won 20 straight games heading into Friday night’s game but did not play this week because of Hurricane Helene.

By Joe Whitfield
Sports EditorBy Joe Whitfield
Sports Editor