The Hawkins Hawks started the season on the road with a big 33-13 win over former district rival Elysian Fields.
The Hawks now look forward to renewing their Highway 80 rivalry with the Big Sandy Wildcats Friday night. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. at Lowrance Stadium in Hawkins.
The Hawk defense had a strong night against the Yellowjackets, holding a traditionally strong Elysian Fields program to just 13 points.
Hawkins head coach Bill Cowley wanted to see a stronger and more physical defense this season, and he liked what he saw in the opener.
“I was really proud of our kids on defense. Our coaches did a great job getting the kids ready for Elysian Fields. I was proud to see our defense get after the football. There was some gang tackling and swarming to the football and just being physical,” Cowley said.
Kaden Morrison led the defense with nine tackles, while Xa’Marcus Clay added seven stops.
The Hawk offense also had a big night, rolling up 395 total yards. Quarterback Eli Smith threw for 240 yards, completing 22 of 29 passes with a touchdown. He also ran for two scores.
Cowley said Smith had a really good night at quarterback and the receivers did a good job catching the ball and getting extra yards after the catch.
Cameron Givens caught four passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. Riggin Smith hauled in nine passes for 75 yards, while Trevin Tanner had nine catches for 91 yards.
Springer Crouch had a good night on the ground, grinding out 114 yards on 18 carries for an average of 6.3 yards per carry.
“Our offensive line did a great job leading the way on the running game and protecting the quarterback. We were able to throw the ball and run the ball, which is always nice,” Cowley said.
Cowley said the Hawks stayed patient on offense and did a good job of being physical throughout the game.
“They had to match us physically, and I was proud of the way we got after them,” Cowley said.
The Hawks will be at home this week for the longtime rivalry game with Big Sandy. The Wildcats are coming off a big 54-6 win over Cumby.
Even though the two teams are no longer in the same district, the game still means a lot to both schools.
“The game against Big Sandy is always a battle. Our kids will be excited to play in this game. It’s a rivalry game, and you can expect a little bit of everything,” Cowley said.
Big Sandy showed it can put points on the board in its season opener. Cowley said the Wildcats run out of the spread and will use several different formations. They also have a receiver and running back the Hawks will have to keep an eye on.
Cowley said the Hawks need to stay focused on improving.
“We need to stay focused on us and not worry about it being a rivalry game. We need to worry about us getting better, and we will be fine,” Cowley said.
The Hawks and Wildcats kick off at 7:30 p.m. Friday at Lowrance Stadium.