APOPKA, Fla - Apopka football is known for its success, reaching the state championship game 3 out of the 4 last years. They are also known for their running attack. This year that attack was led by senior Zeldrick Roberts.

"It’s always good playing in December," said Roberts.

If you are practicing football in December, that means you are winning in the playoffs. The running back has helped the Blue Darters reach the state final for the second year in a row.

"He is a big reason why," said head coach Jeff Rolson.

Since the playoffs started, he has scored 5 touchdowns in first four playoff games for Apopka.

"I played pretty good because I know what I have to do to make my team successful, so I just try to be the best I can be on Fridays," said Roberts.

"The kids look at him, they know when he gets the football, he is going to give every effort," said "He runs with low pads between the tackles and tries to fight for extra yardage."

Apopka lost last years state final to Venice 35-7. A lesson learned the hard way, a lesson they want to use as motivation.

"I think they remember and they want to finish," said Rolson.

"We know we have to fight and we got to be more physical," said Roberts.

This is a sport that Zeldrick has been playing since he was 12 years-old. He grew up playing outside linebacker but after scoring a touchdown in a JV game, he made the move running back the next practice. 

This year he stayed only on the offensive side of the ball for the season but his experience on defense has helped him.

"As a running back you are reading the linebackers on all plays so it was kind of easy to go over as running back," said Roberts.

As Zeldrick has learned, football teaches plenty of lessons.

"I love the game because it makes you better person and it makes you a better man," said Roberts.