Alexander claims top defensive award

Written by Dr David Davis

Pearland's Chris Alexander and family

HOUSTON — Pearland advanced to the Class 5A Division I Region III finals this year thanks to a very strong defense that helped the Oilers post a 11-3 record in a reloading season.

Pearland defensive tackle Chris Alexander was named as one of ten finalists for the top defensive award selected annually by the Touchdown Club of Houston.

Those who were named as defensive finalists included: Bo Brown, Katy; Russell Cuellar, Cinco Ranch; Taiwan Johnson, Manvel; Daniel Lopez, Lamar; Jarius Moore, North Shore; Emmanuel Ogbah, Bush; Tyrone Taylor, Galena Park; Corey Thompson, Elkins; Ben Weaver, Klein.

Pearland All-State running back Dustin Garrison (West Virginia) was named "Offensive Player of the Year" by the TD Club of Houston after leading the Oilers to the 2010 Class 5A Division I state championship.

Hightower's Bralon Addison was named "Offensive Player of the Year" and Manvel's Kirk Martin was named "Coach of the Year."

Alexander was a strong defensive player on last year's drive to the state title and he was one of the defensive leaders this year as the Oilers advanced to the 5A Region III Div. I finals. He scored on a fumble recovery in last year's playoff game against Cy-Woods.

This year, Alexander was all over the field as had one pass disruption, 15 QB hurries, six assisted tackles, 27 unassisted stops, eight sacks, 17 tackles for loss, three caused fumbles, and one fumble recovery.

Pearland head coach Tony Heath was named 2010 "Coach of the Year" after guiding the Oilers to the state throne room. Heath was a finalist for the award seven other times.

Former Pearland safety Jarrad Steward (Utah/Texas State) captured the defensive award in 2008.

Former Pearland running back Fozzy Whittaker (UT) was the "Offensive Player of the Year" in 2006.