Cloverdale's Jackson nets first offer

Jackson accounted for 1,131 all purpose yards and 12 touchdowns for the Clovers.

For Cloverdale football standout Tayt Jackson, the first step is complete.

The Class of '25 athlete's hard work has paid off as he garnered his first college football offer recently from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. 

"It was amazing. Definitely an emotional experience," Jackson told The Putnam County Post of the offer. "I have been playing football my entire life, and I've been waiting for a phone call like that since I was a little kid. It was awesome to see that all of the work I've been putting in to the weight room and on the field is finally paying off."

Last season, Jackson accounted for 1,131 all purpose yards and 12 touchdowns for the Clovers. He threw for 418 yards and a touchdown, rushed 74 times for 484 yards and seven touchdowns and snagged eight passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns.

He said the Wisconsin-Whitewater staff liked his athleticism, speed and how he can play anywhere on the field. 

"They recruited me as a wide receiver/slot, but really just an athlete. I will be playing the slot this fall, and, maybe, moving around at running back here and there if we get a chance," Jackson said.

After finishing last season with a 2-8 record, Jackson said he and his Cloverdale teammates are planning on surprising people this year. 

"I can't wait to show everyone how much work this team has put in over the offseason and to showcase my abilities on the field as well," Jackson said. 

He doubled down, saying one of his goal this year is to quiet doubters. 

"This year is all about showing people we're a real football team. We've been the doormat of the WIC for too many years. Teams don't take us seriously and people and communities continue to disrespect us and our town in general. We're excited to show everyone that Cloverdale is rebuilding and we're here to stay. We are going to be competitive and tough for the next few years," Jackson said. 

In addition, Jackson said he hopes to end the season with 1,000 receiving yards, 500 rushing yards and 20 touchdowns. And, there is another goal he hopes to achieve. 

"A record over .500 for the first time in over 10 years," Jackson said. 

Jackson and Cloverdale open the 2024 season Aug. 23 at home against Riverton Parke, who defeated the Clovers, 39-14 in the opening round of last year's sectional.