Italy Gladiator Ryheem Walker received AP 1st-Team All-State Linebacker and teammate Marvin Cox earned AP 2nd Team All-State Defensive Back.

Defensively, Walker wrapped up his senior season by accumulating 152 solo tackles and 51 assisted tackles for a total of 203 tackles and an average of 14.5 tackles per game. Walker also had 2 sacks, 3 hurries, 1 interception, caused 2 fumbles, recovered 1 fumble and blocked 1 field goal over the course of 14 games.

Cox, at defensive back, totaled 64 tackles with 44 solo stops and 20 assisted tackles for an average of 6.4 tackles per game. Cox had a staggering 9 interceptions while causing 2 fumbles and recovering 1 fumble. And who can forget, Cox’s two picks against the Valley View Eagles which he returned for 93 and 94 yard touchdowns to help Italy win the area championship 35-14.

Congratulations to seniors Ryheem and Marvin on their All-State accomplishments and for helping to create a memorable season of Italy Gladiators’ football!