By Marty Gordon
Glenvar’s loss is Radford’s gain. Landon Clark has led the Radford High School football team to an undefeated record and this week’s state championship to be played in Salem. He didn’t even suit up in the black and gold until his family moved to Radford when he was in the eighth grade, from none other than the school’s toughest rival – Glenvar.
Two weeks ago, it was last minute drive by Clark that gave the Bobcats regional title over Glenvar, who ironically had become the spear in his new team’s side for two of the past four years.
Sunday, he looked back at the semi-final win over Graham.
“I’m proud of our guys. Saturday was one of the most physical games we have had all year,” Clark said.
He laughs at being called the GOAT (Greatest of All Time) at Radford High School, but he has taken control of the record books and is racing to the top of almost every category.
“I wouldn’t go [being called the GOAT] that far,” Clark said.
But let’s take a look at the stats.
The senior leader has thrown 191 completions on 317 attempts for 3,109 yards with 36 touchdowns. He has also rushed 120 times for 1,083 yards and 25 scores. Combined he has been involved in one form or another to over 90 percent of Radford’s offense.
He has also become very important on the defensive side of the ball. Of course, Saturday was no exception as Clark picked off two interceptions from his free safety spot and tallied 17 tackles.
“I like playing both sides of the ball. The safety is like the quarterback on defense. It helps me to read the offense, and I will do whatever this team’s needs,” he said after the win over Graham.
His last statement has been true all season even taking on the role of punter for Radford.
Against Graham, Clark was 10 of 21 for 199 yards with two touchdowns and punted five times for an average of 42 yards.
The Elon University signee only stands at 6-0, 200 but is able to sit back behind a pretty good line of Bobcats and remain pretty unscathed this season.
Looking ahead, Clark wouldn’t go out on the limb and make a prediction on the contest against Riverheads. Instead, he used the simple analogy of “it would not be a better way to go out but to win a state championship.”
“Right now, we are 0-0, and we’re looking to go 1-0 this week. We have prepared that way every week this season and will do so again.”
Clark and the Bobcats are expecting the faithful to show up in full force as Saturday’s game is being played just down the interstate in Salem. Game time in 11:30 a.m.
