PREP FOOTBALL: Leaders of their Nests -- Matthews, Harris settling into QB roles

By Aviel Smolka
Published in Sports on September 4, 2018 5:51 AM

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By AVIEL SMOLKA

asmolka@newsargus.com

Charles B. Aycock and Rosewood have a pair of emerging stars at quarterback.

There is sophomore Clay Matthews over in Pikeville.

Across the Little River is sophomore Will Harris.

Each has made significant contributions during the first three weeks of regular-season play.

Before the season started, Matthews was locked in a three-way battle with Alijuan Moore and Kaden Jones for the starting job. Matthews' intangibles played a role, along with his athleticism he inherited from older brother, Chandler, and middle brother, Caleb.

"Everybody looks up to me because Chandler is my big brother," said Matthews. "There's some pressure, but for me it's fun."

Matthews felt pressure in the season opener against Rosewood.

The 5-foot-8, 138-pounder threw touchdown passes of 41 and 26 yards to Jaylan Robinson. Admittedly nervous, Matthews settled down at halftime and told himself he needed to take charge. He ended the night with 170 yards passing.

Through three outings, Matthews leads the area with 617 yards passing and six TDs.

"He has great leadership skills and a great command of the huddle," CBA head coach Steve Brooks said. "Clay gives us the best chance to win."

Senior running back Michael Reid took Harris under his wing in the preseason.

"He [Michael Reid] knows exactly what he's doing at all times," said. "If I have any questions I can just turn around and ask him."

Reid hasn't had to provide too much advice.

Harris struggled against CBA, but rebounded to lead the Eagles to back-to-back wins against North Johnston and county rival Spring Creek. He completed all three passes for 118 yards and three scores against the Gators last Friday.

Head coach Robert Britt has been impressed by the young field general.

Is Harris ready for the spotlight?

"He's going to be with us the next two years and he's going to continue to get better," Britt said. "Our quarterback needs to make good decisions and for his first varsity game Will played well."