LG’s Gillum Has Already Passed 1,000-Yard Mark in Rushing and Passing This Season

La Grange junior quarterback Eli Gillum had a huge game Friday night, rushing for 268 yards and three touchdowns in La Grange’s big win over Caldwell. That performance put Gillum over the 1,000 yard mark for rushing this season, and he’s already surpassed the 1,000 yard passing mark as well.

“Eli went for 12.1 yards per carry at the quarterback position last year (as a back-up) so we knew some of the things he would be able to do, and he was able to showcase some of those last Friday against Caldwell and done a great job all season long,” said La Grange head coach Kyle Cooper. “I’m proud of his toughness as much as anything ... He was elected captain and has taken that very seriously. He’s leading this team and Friday night was another example of that.”

We’re proud to honor Gillum as this week’s Fayette County Athlete of the Week.

Can you talk about your performance Friday and how important that win was? 

“It was really important ... we had to win it and we got it done.”

Your offensive line has been playing great. What do you think of the job those guys have been doing?

“They’ve been doing an awesome job. They are all young, and we’re just going to keep getting better.”

You’ve got 1,000 yards passing and 1,000 yards rushing already this season. What were your expectations coming into the season and have you even surprised yourself with how well you’ve done? 

“I didn’t expect to have this much (yardage). It’s good.”

What part of your game are you most proud of and what part do you feel like needs more work? 

“I’m proud of my running but I need to work on my passing a lot.”

You were not a quarterback in middle school. How did that position change come about and what did you think about making that change at first?

“In middle school we had Bo Kates, the head coach’s son, but they left. I didn’t think I would be a very good quarterback but I’m starting to get the hang of it. At first I could barely throw a spiral.”

What’s been your most memorable moment of the season so far? 

“The first game getting that big win over Cameron Yoe ... and then the team dinners. We always have fun during those.”

Your dad Chris is an assistant coach on the Leps football team. What’s it like playing for him and being able to share this experience?

“It’s awesome. I love him. Every time I score a touchdown he’s there to give me a hug. It’s great.”

What other sports do you play here at La Grange High School? 

“I also play baseball, track and basketball.”

What is something a lot of people don’t know about you? 

“I’m a pretty good fisherman.”

If you could have dinner with three famous athletes who would you pick?

“Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes and Shohei Ohtani.”

Friday is Halloween. What’s a memorable costume you remember wearing from a previous Halloween? 

“Skippyjon Jones (a

kid’s book cat character)”

What’s the best Halloween candy? “Reese’s.”