By Chris Yow
Editor
Hewitt-Trussville’s football season got off to a bit of a rocky start last Friday night, and the Huskies are looking to bounce back in Week 2 as they travel to Gardendale for their second non-region contest of the season.
The Huskies’ offense had little trouble moving the ball down the field Friday night, but were only able to finish a couple of drives with touchdowns, and head coach Josh Floyd hopes he can correct those mistakes before hitting the field against the Rockets.
Quarterback Zac Thomas was an offensive monster last week, passing for 129 yards on 16 completions. The signal-caller also ran for 118 yards and a touchdown. Running back Jarrion Street ran for 148 yards and a score in the game as well.
Gardendale torched rival Mortimer Jordan 21-0 in two varsity quarters of Jamboree action last week according to Robert Carter of The North Jefferson News. The Rockets had no trouble finding the end zone early and ofter. Quarterback Zac Cupps tossed a pair of touchdown passes to Reagan Padgett in the win, the first came less than a minute into the contest. Cupps finished the night 7-of-11 through the air for 198 yards and the two touchdowns.
Running back Tye Dunklin led the Rockets on the ground in the jamboree. He was credited with 64 yards on seven carries.
Gardendale reached the third round of the Class 6A state playoffs last season before being knocked out by Florence. The Rockets will return eight starters on offense, including the majority of its offensive line. They did, however, lose a pair of playmakers to graduation in Juan Jackson and Austin Hicks.
Floyd knows his defense will need to be more attentive to misdirection and big pass plays, as the Hewitt-Trussville defense was susceptible to both in their loss last weekend.
This week will prove to be yet another very difficult test for the Huskies who will face six playoff teams from a year ago, including three state champions.
The Huskies won the meeting last season at home 30-24, and they lead the all-time series 18-12, according to AHSFHS.org. The last time Hewitt-Trussville visited Gardendale, however, resulted in a 43-21 loss in 2012.