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Backup quarterbacks must be prepared to help the team
By
Demorris A. Lee, Times Staff Writer
In print: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Largo’s backup quarterback Russell Hyde, 16, plays catch with starting quarterback Ryan Eppes during a break in the action during Friday night’s game against Lakewood High School.
The backup quarterback has one of the toughest jobs on a football team. He practices all week with the expectation that he will get limited, if any, time on the field during the game. He spends the majority of Friday nights just beyond the gridiron, watching from the sideline as the starting quarterback takes most of the snaps.
But then again, the backup quarterback can be the game changer.
If the starter goes down, he is expected to step up and run the offense as if he's been playing the entire season. Usually, the backup quarterback's playing time is predicated on the vulnerability of the starter.
But it is a role that Largo High's Russell Hyde, a junior, takes seriously.
He understands the importance of helping Ryan Eppes warm up before the game. Plus, as the holder for the field goal kicker, Hyde does get on the field from time to time.
But his love for the game makes the practicing and watching the game from the sideline worth it.
"I love football," said Hyde, 16. "Even if I don't become starting quarterback next year, I will get bigger so I can be a linebacker or on defense because I love hitting people.
"I'll still be part of the game next year if I don't make it as quarterback. I'm willing to switch positions because I love the game so much."
Demorris A. Lee can be reached at 445-4174 or dalee@sptimes.com.
About this series
Every week during the regular season, Beyond the Gridiron will take a look at the Packers football program from different perspectives. This week, we check out the backup quarterback, who has to be ready to lead his team at a moment's notice.
[Last modified: Nov 13, 2008 11:59 AM]
Comments on this article
by Donna
Oct 26, 2008 12:48 PM
Go BOOMHOWER!!!!!!!!!!
by Dan
Oct 23, 2008 7:15 PM
Anything to get Largo on the site, right? Seriously, im sure hes a nice kid and a good player, but with the headline sayin Backup QBs, you'd think theyd profile more than one from a team they report on all the time. Take a break with this Largo crap.
by Coach J
Oct 23, 2008 6:51 PM
My boy boomhower is gunna play o-line next year!!!!
by Nikki
Oct 23, 2008 6:20 PM
Way to go Russell! One way or another he's being acknowledged and he deserves it. He's been working hard at football since he was a kid,his love for the game is too much for words to describe. Keep working hard Russell and show them how good you are!
by Debbie
Oct 22, 2008 10:39 PM
If you give this player opportunity and the Coaches show him they are there for him - he will give his all. He loves to play football. I have seen him grow when he played youth ball for CJTornadoes.Good Luck Russell! You Deserve a chance to grow.
by Debbie
Oct 22, 2008 10:39 PM
This is awesome that the backup QB is being recognized. I hope they start working more with Russell to get him ready for next year. I have seen him play - he has a lot of potential not only as a QB but in other major positions as well.
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