Atascocita’s Cardae Mack (14) eludes the the North Shore defense as he scrambles for a first down. Credit Jimmie Aggison/Defender.
The Atascocita Eagles have been a force all season long, capturing headlines once again for their football program’s dominance. Known for producing elite athletes across multiple sports, Atascocita made national waves during the 2024 spring track season when its 4×100-meter relay team set a national record of 38.92 seconds at the Victor Lopez Classic. Now, the focus has shifted to the gridiron, where a new star has emerged.
Cardae Mack, a junior with a background as both a quarterback and running back, has taken the reins of the Atascocita offense following the graduation of three-year starting quarterback Zion Brown. Despite currently being recruited as a running back, Mack has excelled in his new role under center, leading Atascocita to a stellar 10-1 overall record with multiple clutch victories.
“Me playing running back only helps the team,” said Mack. “When times get tough I have the ability to escape the pocket. I have practiced this many times. I trust my guys to do their assignments, and when it’s time to execute, I am highly confident in what I’m doing.”
Mack’s transition from running back to quarterback has been seamless, largely due to his agility, vision, and scrambling ability developed during his standout sophomore season, when he rushed for 1,370 yards and 19 touchdowns. His agility and vision—reminiscent of NFL legends LeSean McCoy and Marshawn Lynch—players he closely studies—have turned him into one of Atascocita’s dangerous offensive weapons.
“I like how both of those guys were able to break down defenders and weren’t afraid of running through the face of the defense,” said Mack.
In the offseason, Mack worked tirelessly to refine his athleticism, training with Atascocita head track coach Elton Ervin. The speed and explosiveness he developed on the track field have translated perfectly to the football field, allowing him to evade defenders and extend plays under pressure.
Although Atascocita has had a strong season, they’ve yet to overcome their perennial roadblock: North Shore. Competing in a competitive 6A Region III District 23, Atascocita regularly battles powerhouses like North Shore and Summer Creek. Earlier this season, Atascocita suffered a heart-wrenching 23-27 loss to North Shore in the closing moments of a game they seemed poised to win.
That defeat hasn’t dampened Atascocita’s resolve. Mack, alongside explosive running back Tory Blaylock, has propelled the team to the brink of playoff glory once again. With a roster packed with talent and an offense firing on all cylinders, Atascocita is determined to finally “get over the hump” and push for a state championship.
“Cardae has definitely shown that he is more than just a running back; his ability to scramble while keeping his eyes downfield helps to balance our offense tremendously,” said Blaylock.
As Atascocita gears up for another potential postseason clash with North Shore, the community is buzzing with anticipation. Mack’s ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations has fans believing that this could finally be the year Atascocita advances past North Shore and plays for a state title.
Whether at quarterback or running back, one thing is clear: Cardae Mack is a star in the making, and his journey is far from over.
About Cardae Mack:
Class: 2026
IG: @Wakeemup_3
Twitter: @Cardaemack33
Position: Quarterback / Runningback
Height & weight: 5-feet-10, 195 pounds
Favorite artist: YTB Fatt
Status: Uncommitted
Favorite subject: Science
