North Callaway had two things on Friday night: execution and confidence.
The Thunderbirds, who are ranked eighth in the Class 2 rankings after Week 1, won 42-16 at South Callaway for their third …
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North Callaway had two things on Friday night: execution and confidence.
The Thunderbirds, who are ranked eighth in the Class 2 rankings after Week 1, won 42-16 at South Callaway for their third straight regular season Callaway Cup victory. Coltyn O’Neal threw for 259 yards and four touchdowns on 12-21 passing, and the defense came away with four turnovers, which turned into North Callaway touchdowns on the ensuing drives.
Head coach Kevin O’Neal said he saw “execution and confidence” out of his son and senior quarterback. He saw the same thing out of his other seniors and experienced varsity players.
“All of the seniors played off of each other,” O’Neal said. “We have a strong senior class who have worked really hard and have a lot of varsity experience throughout the years. They made big plays at some point in the game.”
North Callaway recovered three fumbles including two by senior Jaiden Galbreath and one by Tyler Speight, who ran for 93 yards and one touchdown on 15 carries. Along with catching four passes for 72 yards and catching a touchdown, senior Tristan Petty made an interception. O’Neal added senior Brandon Biggers didn’t lose a beat despite recovering from a broken hand.
The Thunderbird defense played at a high level last season to the point where it posted some shutouts. O’Neal said this year’s unit had a good first showing and really ramped up in the second half with three turnovers.
“Our defense did a great job taking the ball away when South Callaway moved into the red zone,” O’Neal said. “They played very aggressive tonight, and we did a good job of swarming the football.”
Execution is a big factor against a familiar opponent like South Callaway, which North Callaway faces for the Callaway Cup every year. O’Neal said Macon (0-1), who has played the Thunderbirds the last four years, presents another challenge at 7 p.m. Friday at home.
“Macon is a much improved team, and I have a lot of respect for coach (Van) Vanetta,” O’Neal said. “They’re going to be physical and have a little bit more speed than we do.”
