Oscar Smith (Chesapeake, VA) fell short in its quest for a 6A state championship this season with a loss to Ocean Lakes (Virginia Beach, VA) in the state semifinals, but Deshawn McClease, whose outstanding senior season included a 114-yard, 2-touchdown performance against Ocean Lakes, “left his mark” on the Tigers football program according to head coach Rich Morgan.

Morgan spoke to TSL about McClease following Josh Sweat’s college announcement on Wednesday of this week.

“He had the best year ever for a running back at Oscar Smith,” Morgan said. “First guy to go for over 2,000 yards rushing in a season here. First running back to finish with over 5,000 yards. He had 80-something touchdowns. I mean, his career numbers are just ridiculous. He really plays hard. He plays the game well. He loves the game and tries to get better. He has left his mark on this program also. He’s kind of the forgotten guy in this equation because everything has been so focused on Josh, but Virginia Tech’s getting a heck of a player with Deshawn McClease. They’ll be okay because he has the chance to do big things.”

McClease helped Oscar Smith reach two state championship games in his career. He helped the Tigers capture a title in 2011 before falling to Centreville in last year’s championship contest. The 5’9”, 175-pound prospect had a terrific final season, though obviously he wishes he was still playing.

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