Vick Ballard Profile
When asked if Pascagoula has the best running tandem in the state, Ballard agreed.
"I think so," said Vick. "Everybody is talking about last week being an upset. Everybody thought Moss Point was going to win."
Ballard and Deflanders combined to roll up 286 rushing yards on a Moss Point defense that was expected to be one of the top units in the state.
"The week before the game we had a real good week of practice," said Ballard. "It's a rivalry game and I think that makes us play harder."
Ballard is looking to play his way into some college options and so far he is getting some serious interest from a pair of ConferenceUSA schools.
"I have an offer from Houston and Southern Miss is talking to me," said Vick. "Houston offered this summer. Both of them have called me. Mississippi State said they were going to be watching me, but that was about it. Ole Miss is kind of the same way."
The offer from the Cougars certainly has Ballard's attention. It appears Vick would have the chance to compete for some early playing time.
"I kind of like Houston because the running back they have now is a senior," said Ballard. "He's leaving, so that would give me more opportunity. They are really letting me be comfortable. They aren't pressuring me or anything. I like that."
The Golden Eagles have built their program on players from the Mississippi Gulf Coast, but a gut at running back may be a factor.
"Southern Miss is kind of stacked right now, so I know if I go there I am probably not going to play right off," said Vick. "I went to their first game this season and they were pretty cool."
The talented runner patterns himself after another Mississippi native who went on to a great college and pro career.
"I think I am a good balance of things," said Ballard. "I just try to get the job done. I like Clinton Portis a lot. I like the way he runs and his swagger."