Huntingdon QB battle continues into second scrimmage

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Quarterback battles can make a head football coach nervous. Having to replace the program's second all-time leading passer would normally just add to the worries.

Despite having what he calls the closest quarterback race in recent years, Huntingdon coach Mike Turk feels good heading into the second preseason scrimmage on Wednesday. The scrimmage is set for 4 p.m.

"We've been fortunate to enter the past two seasons with Neal Posey at quarterback and he did a great job for us," Turk said. "This year we have a battle going on between senior Ryne Taylor and junior Taylor Hughes. I've been pleased with the way both of them have performed so far. They both had good performances in the first scrimmage and we are going to get another good look at them on Wednesday."

With the rest of this week and another full week before the first game week, Turk said there is no pressure to make a quick decision.

"Both of them are executing and playing well right now and we're going to let it work itself out," Turk said. "Both of them are moving the offense and doing good things and our team seems to feel confident with either one of them out there. That's not going to make the decision easier, but it does make me feel good about where we are with the position."

Turk said sophomore Andrew Rhodes is solidified as the No. 3 quarterback and freshman Austin Johnson is showing early promise.

"I'm pleased with the way Andrew has worked during the past year," Turk said. "He has improved dramatically since last season and he has a good command of the offense.

"As far as the young guys go, Austin Johnson has had the best camp so far. He has a lot of potential."