While most football coaches are optimistic this time of year, Lake’s Tate Hanna is feeling especially excited after his first week of practice with the Hornets.
“I think it was one of the best first weeks that we have had in all of my years of coaching,” Hanna said. “Every was there and felt god. We picked up where we left off in the spring. We had a scrimmage on Friday, and I thought it went really well.”
Hanna said he was especially pleased with the offensive line.
“I thought the offensive line is gelling together,” Hanna said. “I knew our skill guys would be leaders for us on offense. I thought we threw the ball well in practice. I was pleased with where we are at on offense being able to throw the ball. It’s been a big plus getting Ethan Gray back. After losing him last year, we weren’t able to run it like we wanted and weren’t able to throw, and that put us in a bind.”
With Dannarious Hughes and Zywon Ledbetter at receiver, Hanna said a lot of responsibility has fallen on sophomore quarterback Brady McGee.
“I think the biggest thing on Brady is he is a year old and stronger,” Hanna said. “You can tell the difference in his arm. He is getting it out there pretty good and getting the ball to our skill kids. We are very pleased so far.”
The Hornets will take on Newton County on Friday night at 8 p.m. at the Newton County jamboree. Last year, Newton County won 7-0 in a spirited contest.
“Last year, we outgained them 200 yards but turned the ball over four or five times,” Hanna said. “That’s going to be one of the big keys this year. We have to go out there and protect the football and not make a lot of mistakes.”
Lake will host Forest on Aug. 23 to open the regular season
