In his first season as head coach of the Putnam City North Panthers, Derek Lane has his football team playing well entering October. One athlete has been the “talk of the tailgate” since the season got underway.

“Marcus is a great kid! Shows up for everything. Anytime the weight room or field house is open you can count on him to be there getting in some extra work. Marcus is also great positive leader both vocally and by example. Marcus also does a great job of taking care of business in the classroom,” said coach Lane.

A football player since the seventh grade, Anderson is now a member of the varsity team in his final season of prep football. 

“I started in seventh grade. I was a bigger kid so the coaches always tried to get me out there,” said Anderson. 

Being a senior and a leader for the Panthers has come naturally for 6-foot, 230-pound defensive end. 

“The culture at North is just something you have to experience from the locker room. From pregame to coming out to the field and hearing the students cheer, it’s just an amazing feeling,” said Anderson. “I’d say the thing I love most about my team is the resiliency they have, week in and week out, putting it all on the line for the ultimate goal of winning a state championship.” 

Anderson and his teammates are focused on making the playoffs this season before the seniors turn their attention to the future. 

“My plans are to attend college to pursue a degree in public health and also play football at the next level,” said Anderson. 

For now, helping his team win is the goal. “I value every second I get on the field equally. I just enjoy being out there and being able to play the game I love,” said Anderson. “I love the thrill of being on the field and being able to play alongside my best friends Jeremiah Moore and Rocky Curry.”