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SPORTS
Highlander's quest for redemption begins tonight
HUNTINGTON -- Huntington High has been on a mission since the beginning of practice to get its football team turned in the winning direction. Now the true tests begins tonight as the Highlanders head to Beckley to play Woodrow Wilson at 7:30 p.m.
Last season, the Flying Eagles edged the Highlanders 29-22 in the opener. But with more experience and a new-found swagger, Huntington High is hoping for a different result this time around.
Huntington High second-year coach Zach Wilson knows that winning the season opener can set the tone for the rest of the year.
"We are coming in with a lot of confidence and it would be huge to win the first game," Wilson said. "Woodrow Wilson is always a strong physical team and I expect a tough game from them."
Woodrow Wilson senior quarterback Ryan Stafford will play a huge factor in trying to spoil Huntington High's bid to start the season 1-0. Stafford is a veteran on the field and brings tremendous leadership to the team.
While Stafford has no problem slinging the ball around, the pressure will be eased with the Flying Eagles strong backfield. Woodrow Wilson always has a tremendous number of players with pure athleticism, and this season is no different.
Leading the charge at running back is Veshawn Wood. Last season, Wood played at wide receiver, but was moved into the backfield because of his elusiveness. Talented sophomore Rakeem Fowlkes will fill Wood's void at receiver and he has already gained the coaching staff's attention with his raw talent.
Woodrow Wilson intends to run the game in jet-like fashion by running a no huddle offense. The Flying Eagles intend to throw everything it has at its opponents in a hurry.
There's no doubt that Huntington High can match Woodrow Wilson's explosiveness on offense. It might be a question of what defense can step up and stand in the offense's way?
Huntington High quarterback C.J. Crawford will have the luxury of having more weapons at his disposal. Crawford can makes plays on his own with his arm and feet, but being surrounded by talent makes him even more dangerous.
Gary Felder brings a new dynamic to the Highlanders' rushing attack. He is a physical player with a quick first step that allows him to burst downfield with his speed. Tyler Hutchison will also add depth to the backfield.
Robert Redman will look to open up big holes to run through on the offensive line by utilizing his monstrous 6-foot-2, 308-pound frame. Andrew Senior is also force along both lines.
Joey Christian is Crawford's favorite target through the air. Christian is a solid route runner that can pull away quickly with his speed if he gets his hands on the ball.
It should shake out to be a high-scoring affair with loads of speed and quickness showcased on the field.
