FOOTBALL MANATEE COUNTY PLAYER ZOOM

Kei’Shawn Smith: The Dual-Threat Star Powering Manatee High to Victory

Kei’Shawn Smith, a senior running back and cornerback for the Manatee High School Hurricanes in Bradenton, Florida, has emerged as a key player in the 2024 football season. Standing at 5’8″ and weighing 170 pounds, Smith combines agility and strength, making him a standout performer on both offense and defense.

This season, Smith has demonstrated exceptional consistency and explosiveness in the running game. Over 11 games, he amassed 1,068 rushing yards on 162 carries, averaging an impressive 6.6 yards per carry and 97.1 yards per game. His ability to find the end zone is equally noteworthy, with 20 rushing touchdowns to his credit. Smith also contributed to the passing game, recording 18 receptions for 230 yards and five receiving touchdowns, further underscoring his versatility as an offensive weapon.

 

One of Smith’s standout performances came against Pinellas Park, where he rushed for a career-high 179 yards and four touchdowns, leading Manatee to their sixth consecutive victory. His efforts were instrumental in propelling the Hurricanes to an 8-1 record, with aspirations for postseason success.

Beyond his rushing and receiving contributions, Smith has shown his prowess in all-purpose yardage, accumulating a total of 1,353 yards this season, including contributions in kickoff returns. Averaging 123 all-purpose yards per game, he remains a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Smith’s dynamic playstyle and work ethic exemplify the competitive spirit of Florida high school football. With his senior season concluding, he will leave a lasting legacy at Manatee High while drawing potential interest from college football programs.

For more details on Smith’s stats and game highlights, you can explore his MaxPreps profile.