Columbus has two named All-State

It was an important year for the Columbus football team.

The Wildcats claimed their first playoff berth in 18 years with a 3-6 regular season record, and some strong talent helped them achieve that goal.

Headlining that talent are two All-State athletes, who made strong impacts for Columbus.

Senior running back Mauricio Ramirez and senior lineman Trace Taylor were each named Class 1A third-team All-State athletes for their efforts on the year.

Taylor was a key part of the offensive line for the Wildcats, helping lead the charge for an offense that could pass and run with some of the top teams in the state.

Ramirez finished his senior campaign with 1,435 yards and 16 scores on the ground, while catching 22 passes for 472 yards and eight touchdowns.

Both Ramirez and Taylor were also named first-team All-District selections, and they were joined by John Rees on the All-District team, who was also a part of the strong offensive line.

On the second-team All-District lists, Columbus junior quarterback Carter Colby earned recognition for a strong season.

Colby finished the year with 1,332 passing yards and 16 touchdowns through the air, while picking up 426 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground.

Sophomore Abel Mena also earned second-team honors, earning 85 tackles on the year, two interceptions and three fumble recoveries, while catching 21 passes for 270 yards and four scores.

The Wildcats saw their season end against West Branch in the first round of the playoffs, but posted the second-highest amount of points the Bears allowed this season.