By Zack Steele, For the Tribune
TRUSSVILLE – In year 9 of the Josh Floyd era at Hewitt Trussville, the Huskies are hungry for something more. In Floyd’s tenure, Hewitt has made the playoffs in 8 of those nine years. Since 2014, Floyd has molded Hewitt into one of the best programs in the state, with teams that regularly ranked in the top 5 in 7A every season.
Unfortunately, in those 9 years Hewitt has never made it past the quarterfinal round. In 7A, the road to the state championship usually goes through Hoover, and more recently, Thompson High of Alabaster. Those two teams are normally one and two in the state. Both schools happen to fall in Hewitt’s region year in and year out.
Add those two schools with the likes of Vestavia and Spain Park, and you get the toughest region in Alabama high school sports.
Still, Coach Floyd likes what he has with his 2023 squad, especially considering the returning players on offense.
Reigning All State quarterback Peyton Floyd leads an experienced backfield, including senior running back Jaqson Melton. Tight End/H back Donovan Price gives Floyd a big target for possession downs. Price was voted second team all state as a junior. Hewitt also returns several experienced receivers with 25 or more career receptions. The passing game should be potent.
“We have high expectations every year for our offense, but especially this season since we have so many returners. Our offensive line improved throughout last season and had a really good off season.”
Hewitt’s offensive line is anchored by 4 year starter Kade Martin, who can play multiple positions on the line. The focus of the offensive line is getting bigger and playing more physical.
“They have definitely gotten stronger over the last few months and we should have some pretty good size up front.” said Floyd
Defensively, the Huskies have a few more questions to answer. Along with replacing an entire linebacker corps, the Huskies also must replace all state defensive back Ricky Gibson and defensive lineman Hunter Osborne. Despite this, Coach Floyd is still bullish on the Husky defense.
“We lost 2 SEC players that will be hard to replace but we believe we have guys that can step into those spots. We are fortunate to return 5-6 starters on the defense that was ranked 4th in 7A last season. Tyrell Averhart was an all state d-lineman last season and he led our team in sacks and tackles for loss the last two season.”
Riggs Dunn and Michael Igbinoginene bring substantial experience to the defensive secondary.
“Riggs will be a 3 year starter in the secondary so it’s great to have that experience on the back end. Michael Igbinoghinee returns at corner and we expect him to take his game to the next level.” said Floyd.
The schedule will be a challenge with several of the most competitive teams in 7A residing in Hewitt’s region. Aside from Thompson and Hoover, the other teams in the region continue to improve.
Floyd was complimentary of Region 3.
“As always, Region 3 will be super competitive. People always talk about us, Hoover and Thompson because we have been in the top 3 the last several years. Vestavia stepped up last year and had a great season. The return their quarterback and one of the top prospects in the country on defense.
“Spain Park is loaded with several guys getting D1 offers in the offseason. Tuscaloosa County was a lot better last year than they have been. They have a running back committed to Miami that will be back.”
“The coaching is very good in the region and that is what makes it tough each and every Friday.”
Hewitt Trussville opens the season at home against Central of Phenix City on August 25th.