By Thomas Grant Jr.
As a Gray Collegiate Academy offensive line coach, Cory Helms witnessed KZ Adams become the first Palmetto State player to rush for 3,000 yards in a season.
Friday night as Cardinal Newman’s head coach, he witnessed another historic performance from a War Eagle transfer running back.
Senior Caleb Ford made a memorable debut for the Cardinals in the season-opener at Cannon School in Concord, N.C. He not only accounted for three touchdowns in the 24-21 victory but set a school record with 404 yards on 34 carries.
“That was the best individual performance I’ve seen,” Helms said.
Credit was given to the offensive line led by Marshall commit Jack Laird along with Zach Rhodes, Wells Lewis, Ken Clark and Jeremiah McGowan. Tight end Brady Murphy, who made the game-clinching fumble recovery caused by Fredde Gillens, and H-backs Preston Furman also played a role in performing their blocking assignments.
Helms was also pleased with how his team overcame adversity throughout the game. From players dealing with injuries and cramping to having to rally twice for the victory.
The next two weeks find Cardinal Newman facing S.C. High School League teams. Up first is a trip to Greenville to face St. Joseph’s Catholic School, a former 2-time Class A Upper State Final runner-up now competing in Class 3A.
“It’s good to play bigger programs,” Helms said. “We will get battle-tested early and see where we really stand. St. Joeseph has a great running game and a really sound defense. A lot of guys with a lot of experience. It will be a great physical test.”
Photo by Cardinal Newman – Cardinal Newman running back Caleb Ford
