“Zacch is the most complete player in this state by far. He has played both sides of the ball and special teams all year. He is a selfless, true team player.”

Scott Earley

Head Coach - Head Coach of Westside High

Athletic Excellence

The 6-foot-5, 285-pound senior defensive end and running back had led the Yellow Jackets to a 14-0 record and a berth in the Class AAAAA state final against Dutch Fork High at the time of his selection. Pickens had recorded 82 tackles, including 14 for loss, and five sacks through 14 games. A four-time All-Region honoree, who has thrice received All-State recognition rushed for 834 yards and 21 touchdowns, averaging 8.9 yards per carry, entering the state title game.

Academic Achievement

Pickens has maintained a weighted 3.71 GPA in the classroom. He has verbally committed to play football on an athletic scholarship at the University of South Carolina in the fall of 2019.

Exemplary Character

Pickens has volunteered locally with Hemophilia of South Carolina, and he has donated his time as a youth mentor.