Hawks counting on leadership at quarterback

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Huntingdon football team wrapped up its second day in shorts and helmets with a morning practice on Friday.

Head coach Mike Turk said the second day of practice was much crisper than Day 1.

"Today was a lot better. It was obvious the guys, especially the newer guys, had a day under their belts and understood the routine a little better," Turk said. "We're still learning and still installing things, but as far as the overall outlook of how the day went, I would say it was a good day.

"I saw some good things. I saw some younger guys making some plays here and there. That's important because we're going to need some help from some of these young guys this season. We're going to have to have some younger guys step up in a few places."

Turk also likes what he is seeing out of his veteran players. With 82 returning players this season, including 14 returning starters, experience is plentiful at several positions.

At quarterback, the Hawks' top four players have each been in the system for at least two seasons.

"We're counting on quarterback to be a strength for us," Turk said. "The guys who are returning have all been around here for a few years. They all have a good command of what we're trying to do offensively and they're comfortable with the system."

Leading the quarterbacks is senior Luke Bailey. Bailey, who is entering his third year as a starter and was a first-team all-conference selection as a junior, passed for 2,539 yards and a program-record 28 touchdowns last season. He was also the Hawks' third leading rusher with 512 yards and seven touchdowns.

During the past two seasons, Bailey has been responsible for 61 touchdowns (51 passing and 10 rushing). Bailey is closing in on the program records for touchdowns responsible for and passing touchdowns. Former quarterback Zach Golson holds the Huntingdon records for touchdowns responsible for (63) and touchdown passes (54).

"We're fortunate and excited to have Luke back," Turk said. "He has been a good player for us for two years now. When the guy calling everything out there is comfortable and confident of what's going on, it makes a huge difference in the demeanor of the whole offense."

Behind Bailey, Turk said senior Brett Montgomery and junior Chip Taylor are battling for the backup position and senior Andrew Neswiacheny has also looked solid.

"There is a comfort level with all of those guys," Turk said. "Not only do we have a guy like Luke, who has played for us and made a lot of plays for us, but we have guys who have been here and have such a good understanding of what we're doing.

"Even when those guys are standing on the side, they're talking to the younger guys and they're able to teach them based on what they're seeing. When you have a lot of experience and knowledge at a position, it really helps in teaching the younger guys. Hopefully our young quarterbacks will benefit from that."

After two days or practice in shorts, the Hawks will put on shoulder pads for Saturday's 9 a.m. practice.