Armwood

By Times Staff
Published August 31, 2007

Multiple Choice

Armwood coach Sean Callahan says first-year quarterback Mywan Jackson most closely resembles previous Hawks signal caller:

(A) Jameel Williams(B) Justin Hickman

(C) Joey Gerena(D) A and B

(E) None

Answer: D. A converted receiver, Callahan suggests Jackson's mobility, fleetness and lively arm make him one of Armwood's most complete quarterbacks. "We think he's a cross between Jameel Williams and Justin Hickman," Callahan said. "He went up there to the Friday Night Lights at (the University of) Florida and ran a 4.41 (in the 40-yard dash). Justin Hickman wasn't that fast obviously; Jameel Williams wasn't that fast either."

True-False

Hawks senior two-way lineman Matt Patchan, right, by far Hillsborough County's highest-rated college recruit, is the strongest player on the team:

Answer: False. At press time, that distinction belonged to right guard Eric August, who boasted a 385-pound bench press. Patchan, a left tackle designated a five-star recruit by rivals.com, isn't far behind.

Yes or No

Will the Hawks' experiment with the shotgun stick?

Answer: Maybe, if their new stable of receivers comes through. Armwood has some promising youngsters in junior Rob Jones, the backup quarterback; and sophomore Sherman Jessie, who scored three touchdowns in the spring jamboree.

Essay

Plant coach Bob Weiner on Armwood:

"We have tremendous respect for Armwood. We had one year in the sun where we played great - Armwood has done it consistently for five or six years in a row. Regardless of what anyone else says, that's what everyone in the county aspires to be."

Callahan on the Hawks:

"I think we have good depth on our team. My area of biggest concern is my secondary. After my starting four guys, it becomes iffy then. But we have good depth at O-line, D-line, linebackers, running back, receivers. Good competition."

Extra Credit

Senior tailback Eric Smith, below, has narrowed his list of colleges to Auburn, Florida, Miami, Clemson and LSU. Auburn currently is atop his list. ...Smith's brother, imposing junior middle linebackerJamiel "Petey" Smith, is listed at 240 pounds - 10 pounds more than his listed weight in 2006. ...Callahan said 20 players bench press at least 300 pounds.

Joey Knight, Times staff writer

[Last modified August 29, 2007, 15:23:16]