We’re about midway through the fall sports season as the race to the playoffs is on.

Every game matters as some teams around Lexington County begin region play and others finish up the last of their non-conference schedule. With the stakes so high, star players are given a heavier load and expected to produce more. 

This week’s Athlete of the Week winners come from Dutch Fork and River Bluff. Each player took their game to another level last week and guided their team to major wins. 

Voting for Athlete of the Week runs from 10 a.m. Saturday to 10 a.m. Monday each week at lexingtonchronicle.com/athleteoftheweek. To submit a nominee for consideration, email a photo and short bio to sports@lexingtonchronicle.com.

Jaxon Knotts

Dutch Fork quarterback Jaxon Knotts was not fazed by the lengthy weather delay in the Silver Foxes game against Sumter. 

Knotts accounted for six touchdowns in the 55-26 win, four through the air and two on the ground. He finished the game completing 15 of 19 passes for 384 yards. On nine carries, he ran for 56 yards. 

The Silver Foxes advanced to (4-0) with the win. Dutch Fork is seeking a historic fifth straight championship this season. 

Knotts started for the team last season, and they expect him to help them get back again this season. 

Photo by Chuck Crumbo

Karis Kettering

The River Bluff volleyball team showed it is still the team to beat in 5A Region 4 after flexing its muscles in a pair of wins last week. 

River Bluff beat Lexington and White Knoll to kick off its slate of region games. Karis Kettering was clutch in the wins, leading the Gators’ offensive attack. 

She led the team with nine kills, 11 digs, three assists and three aces against White Knoll. Against Lexington, she had 13 kills, 13 digs and two aces. 

Kettering has been the go-to player on the attack for the Gators, despite being only a sophomore. She already has over 200 kills this year.