Ellwood Christian’s J’miere Solomon was one of the finalists for the Alabama Sports Writers Association’s defensive player of the week after his performance in the Eagles’ 48-38 victory over Francis Marion.

Solomon stripped a Rams’ ball carrier of the football, picked the ball up and ran it back 20 yards for a touchdown on the opening kickoff to give

Ellwood a quick lead. As if that wasn’t enough, Solomon also recorded three interceptions — including one in the end zone — and caught a touchdown pass at the end of the first half.

“I was staying in my lane, running down and broke down in an angle and made contact,” Solomon said, as he described his fumble return for a touchdown.

“I spun and had the ball in my hand — but didn’t realize it — and just took off to the end zone. It was unbelievable.”

Ellwood Christian head coach Eric Martinear said starting off a season with a touchdown on the first play was incredible, but nothing Solomon does is really surprising because of his athletic ability.

“Any time he has an opportunity to get his hands on the ball, the ball is going to come out,” Martinear said. “It was spectacular seeing that on the first kickoff. It was unexpected, but to be honest, as a coach I expect that from him.”

Solomon was edged out for the defensive player of the week honor by Slocomb’s Dezmond Johnson, who intercepted three passes and score two touchdowns in his team’s win.