By Tyler Waldrep
GARDENDALE — Hewitt-Trussville coach Josh Floyd continues to shatter expectations.
With the team returning quarterback Zac Thomas and 1,000-yard rusher Jarrion Street, the offense is expected to continue to pick up the pace and the headlines this season. Considering that, and Floyd’s offensive roots, it was surprising to see two defensive players accompany the coach in his annual pre-season sit down with the media.
Hewitt-Trussville head coach Josh Floyd addresses the media alongside Jalen Williams and Jaison Williams. photo by Ron Burkett
Floyd said he expects the entire team to have a better grasp on their roles this year. He also said he is happy with the progress that his new coordinator, Rudy Griffin, has made this offseason.
“I think they want to play for him,” Floyd said. “We are really excited about our defense. We feel like our front seven can compete with anybody.”
Floyd may have decided to show off a pair of defensive players, but don’t expect him to let his foot off the ‘Husky Fast’ gas pedal anytime soon. Senior linebacker Jalen Williams said the offense looks even better this year.
“I feel like we are more fluid as an offense now, cause everything’s running a little bit smoother,” Jalen Williams said. “And when it’s smoother, you can pick up your speed a little bit.”
Increasing the pace of the offense could actually hurt Hewitt-Trussville if the defense fails to make the same strides. Defensive end Jaison Williams (no relation to Jalen) said the defense has been preparing for the faster pace.
“Tempo is a whole lot different than we use to do it,” Jaison Williams said. “It’s a lot faster and less rest time.”
