From a young age, Tim Finklea knew football was his sport.

The Escambia County senior running back rushed for 179 yards on 17 carries and scored three touchdowns to help lead the Blue Devils to their first victory of the season last week. He scored one touchdown each in the first, second and third quarters during the 26-14 win over Faith Academy.

Finklea said he just followed his blocks and made sure he got on the outside to make good runs.

“I was a lot faster than most of their defensive players,” Finklea said.

The key to his strength and speed lies in working the legs out on a frequent basis, Finklea said.

Finklea has been playing football since he was 10 years old. By age 12, he said he felt like he was getting in a good rhythm.

“I’ve always played running back,” he said with a smile.

Finklea said it felt good to get the win last week.

“We haven’t won in a long time,” he said.

For the rest of the season, Finklea said he just wants to finish his senior season and hopefully get a chance at college.

“It was just a good win,” he said.

Finklea is the son of Timothy and Tamika Finklea of Atmore.