By Justin Graves

Justin@athensnews-courier.com

ATHENS – There isn’t any shortage of firepower on Athens’ offense this year. With the majority of key contributors returning from teams that advanced to the Class 5A semifinals in 2004 and the quarterfinals in 2005, the Golden Eagles have assembled one of the most talented football teams in the programs’ history.

Leading what is possibly one of the most potent offenses in the state is fourth year starting quarterback Rob Ezell. Last season he threw for over 3,400 yards, and with the talent and experience the Golden Eagles have returning, Ezell has a shot to top that. The senior quarterback has been selected the No. 2 player on The News Courier’s list of Limestone Super Seniors.

“Everything that our offense does goes through Rob (Ezell),” Athens coach Allen Creasy said. “He is one of the most competitive people that I have ever been around. He gets his competitive nature and mental toughness from his father.”

Ezell’s father – Garner Ezell – was a successful option quarterback in high school. After watching some of his father’s old game films, Ezell realized what it means to play hard and give everything you’ve got.

“He was a tough player,” Ezell said. “Not only did he play quarterback, but he also played safety on defense. Watching him play showed me why it’s important to put forth everything you’ve got, and now I put a lot more effort into everything I do.”

Following in your father’s footsteps isn’t always an easy thing to accomplish, but one thing that has allowed Ezell to be successful is having some of the best athletes in the area around him. The senior is grateful to have a group of receivers that feature four guys to throw the ball to who have a shot at playing in college.

“Everybody makes mistakes, but having receivers as talented as ours’ can make up for some of those mistakes,” Ezell said. “I know if I mess up and make a bad pass, guys like Jacquez Pride, Justin Pitts and Vincent Azzarello are still capable of making a play. That’s the kind of stuff that boosts your confidence.”

Another confidence booster for Ezell is the lengthy amount of time he gets in the pocket. He said one reason he has been so successful in past years is because the Golden Eagles offensive front doesn’t allow much penetration.

But if the opposing defensive front does penetrate, there is no doubt in Creasy’s mind that his quarterback will find a way to make a play.

“Rob is a lot more mobile than people give him credit for,” Creasy said. “He’s the type of player that makes things happen.”

All the success that Ezell has had in his tenure at Athens has drawn a lot of positive attention from college coaches toward last season’s All-State quarterback. Even though Ezell claims he wants to play at the next level, he doesn’t think now is the time to address the matter.

“My wrist was hurt during the off-season, and I didn’t attend as many camps as I wanted,” he said. “Right now I’m just going to focus on the season, take things one week at a time, win some football games and let God take over from there. He will lead me to where I need to be.”

Sunday The News Courier will feature the No. 1 Limestone Super Senior and recap the previous 11 players.