November 3, 2023
By BARTON HENLEY
Rutherford County Schools
The Tennessee Titans Mr. Football Awards are presented to the top football players across the state.
Daune Morris, a junior running back at Oakland, and Braden Graham, a senior quarterback at Riverdale, have both been selected as semifinalists in Division I, Class 6A.
Morris said being crowned Mr. Football was a goal for him coming into his junior season.
“It means a lot to me to be recognized,” Morris said. “My coaches and teammates have pushed me this year, and it’s been a great season so far. I’m very thankful for the opportunity.”
Morris has 1,583 total yards on the season thus far with 18 touchdowns.
“It’s humbling for sure,” Graham said. “Growing up my dad and I would talk a lot about the [Mr. Football] award. It’s an honor to be a semifinalist for the award, but I’m really focused on winning football games. The goal is to get a ring.”
Graham has accumulated 2,713 yards through the air with 35 total touchdowns on the season.
Graham and Morris both agreed that competition in Rutherford County has helped push them to become better.
“Competition brings out true character,” Morris said. “It is always great for me.”
Both players will continue their seasons as playoffs begin tonight.
Oakland plays host to Gallatin and Riverdale hosts Green Hill. Both games begin at 7 p.m.
Congratulations to both Morris and Graham for being recognized as some of the best football players across the state.
The awards ceremony will take place at Nissan Stadium on Dec. 5, 2023.