The only time most running backs run 300 yards is during conditioning drills after practice. Wilkinson County Christian Academy’s Stephens McVea, however, tore through the Pine Hills defense last Friday for 301 yards and three touchdowns on the ground, adding a 33-yard touchdown reception for good measure in the 30-0 Rams win.

&uot;It feels good,&uot; McVea said of his accomplishment. &uot;It helps to have a big line. We’re about 270 (pounds) each across the front.&uot;

McVea said he was surprised he was able to find that much running room against the Wildcats.

&uot;I expected to do well, but I didn’t expect to get 300 yards,&uot; he said. &uot;I always try to go for everything I can get on every play, and I had a good game.

&uot;We beat them bad,&uot; he said. &uot;They gave up and quit tackling.&uot;

The Rams are on a two-game winning streak, led in part by McVea’s running ability. WCCA surprised Huntington two weeks ago with a 62-32 win in which McVea contributed 260 yards and four touchdowns.

But McVea does not take the credit for the Rams’ turnaround.

&uot;I think at the beginning of the season we were playing as a bunch of individuals. Now we’re playing as a team,&uot; McVea said.

Only a junior, McVea can appreciate the opportunity he has to play football — especially after the rash of injuries suffered by Rams running backs this season.

&uot;It’s a thrill to be out there playing with your friends,&uot; McVea said. &uot;It’s fun to be playing something you’re not going to be able to do for the rest of your life.&uot;

He does hope to continue playing football — and possibly basketball, baseball or track — at the collegiate level, especially if he attends LSU, his favorite school.

&uot;Unless I get a little scholarship somewhere else,&uot; he said.

College sports are where his interests stop, however; he doesn’t enjoy professional sports.

&uot;I’m not in to pro sports,&uot; he said. &uot;It’s not as exciting as college.

&uot;In the pros, they’re paid,&uot; he said. &uot;In college, they’re out their because they want to be.&uot;