Named to the Clarion Ledger's Dandy Dozen list as a senior. Named 1st team All-State by the same publication.

Named Mississippi's Gatorade Player of the Year.

Named Mississippi's Mr. Football for 2008.

Named starting quarterback for team Mississippi in the Mississippi/Alabama All-Star game. Orlando Sentinel chose Russell as the Missisppi representative on their Dandy Dozen. Mobile Press Register's Super Southeast 120.

Led his team to the 5A State championship after a 26-20 win over South Panola who held an the nation's third longest winning streak at 89 games.

Led team to South State championship game as a junior and State Championship game as sophomore.