Ernie Powers has made up for lost time this season.
The junior running back at Franklin High School missed most of last year with a leg injury, costing him his sophomore season. But this year, the 5-foot-11, 185-pounder has emerged as one of the top running backs in El Paso. In nine games for the 5-4 Cougars, he has rushed for 1,717 yards and 16 touchdowns.
“Last season was tough not playing. I knew I had to work hard to get back to where I wanted to,” Powers said. “I worked on my speed, and it’s paid off. I still have much to improve on. My goal is to play college football.”
Powers has had some big games this season, including a 316-yard rushing game vs. Eastwood and a 225-yard rushing performance vs. Montwood.
“He’s a good, strong back,” said Eastlake High School football head coach Ruben Rodriguez after his team defeated Franklin, 21-14, a game in which Powers ran for a score.
Powers is the fourth in his family to play for the Franklin football program. Brothers David and Steven were linebackers for the Cougars and Patrick was a receiver. Steven also played running back. David is still playing college football at Wofford College in South Carolina.