ARTHUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Almost one year ago, ALAH quarterback Cruz Hale had surgery to repair a torn meniscus.
This brought uncertainty surrounding his role as a senior.
“I didn’t want to think they might not play me, but doubt definitely crept in,” shared Cruz. “While injured, I focused on being the best team captain I could be, sort of taking on the quarterback role without being on the field.”
He’s playing a key role for an unbeaten Knights team, savoring a senior season of throwing passes to twin brother Cash.
“We’re not sure if we’ll continue playing football, so I cherish every moment, every pass he throws my way,” Cash expressed. “And even on defense, with both of us on the field, I savor those experiences.”
You won’t be shocked to hear these guys have been together for quite some time, so the bond is strong.
“It’s been amazing. I started as the quarterback while he was a receiver, and then our roles reversed, which is an unbelievable connection,” Cash mentioned.
“We’ve played together since elementary school, throwing passes from fourth grade and even longer in backyard games,” Cruz noted. “It’s definitely something special. Senior year, performing for our community, throwing touchdowns to each other feels just like our childhood games.”
Beyond Cruz’s contributions with 290 receiving yards and five touchdowns, there’s junior QB Marcus Otto stepping in effectively, creating a challenging dual-quarterback dynamic for opponents.
“When one quarterback comes off, I ask them, ‘What do you see? What plays might work?’ This adds a bit of responsibility to them, but overall, it’s been fantastic,” commented head coach Ryan Jefferson.
It’s a Knights offense firing on all cylinders, scoring more than 35 points per game, entering our Friday Football Fever Spotlight Game of the Week against Arcola on Friday, October 3 in Arthur.
