"Nobody can really see me." - Kenard Lipscomb K enard Lipscomb is one of Gaffney's most visible offensive threats because he seems invisible when he runs the ball.

Lipscomb is 5-8, 150 lbs. and when the senior is running behind his offensive line, it's like he's being protected by a cloaking device.

"Nobody can really see me," Lipscomb said.

But Lipscomb is very visible once he breaks into the open. Blessed with shifty feet, balance and speed, Lipscomb is one of the most elusive ball carriers in the region.

"I just used to run a lot on the roads near my house and I'd get up in the morning and do (agility) drills."

Lipscomb, who rushed for 574 yards last season, idolizes former Detroit Lions star Barry Sanders, a small running back with uncanny cutting ability and breakaway speed.

"I always liked Barry Sanders," he said. "I remember seeing highlights of him."

Lipscomb's other idol lives in his house and he calls him 'Dad.' Kenard credits his father Donald Lipscomb, a former Gaffney High and Furman University standout, for his speed and strength.

Kenard, who is expected to qualify for the state track meet in the 800 meters and 4x800 meter relays this season, has been clocked in 4.4 speed in the 40. He also throws up some serious weight in the weight room, power-cleaning 225 lbs. with ease.

Kenard said his positive attitude and enthusiasm for football were a result of conversations he had with his father.

"He always told me to stay positive and to keep my head on straight so I can go far in life," he said.

Kenard wanted to follow in his father's footsteps on the football field, but he candidly admitted he wasn't very good at wide receiver. But he found that running back fit him to a tee.

He played running back and safety at Gaffney Middle. As a member of the ninthgrade team, he was strictly a safety before he returned to the backfield as a jayvee and varsity player.

Last season as a junior, he split time with leading rusher Jeremiah Cochran and reserve Rodney Rogers.

As a full-time starter this year, Lipscomb is setting his goals high.

"I want to rush for 100 yards every game," he said.

He knows in order to accomplish that goal, the inexperienced offensive line must gel in a hurry. As a senior, it's part of his job to show leadership to the group.

"I try to encourage them as much as I can," he said.

Lipscomb also is a dangerous kickoff returner. It's just another opportunity to show his elusiveness.

"I like it," he said.