BENTON, Mo. (KFVS) – The Hawks dominate in the sky, but Kelly football dominates on the ground. That could change this year.

Kelly football practiced in Benton on Friday, August 16, two weeks before the Hawks’ season opener against rival Charleston.

This year’s roster has some continuity, especially in senior quarterback Skyler Still, but it loses a star in Reece Eftink. Eftink graduated in May and headed to Evangel University to continue his football career.

Given the huge gap left by Eftink’s departure, the job will not go to a single person, at least not yet.

“As far as the running game goes, it will be decided by a committee at the beginning unless someone shines and takes that job permanently,” said head coach Lance Power.

But the Hawks also utilize their talent in the air. Still and teammate Grant Burleson could develop into an even more dangerous quarterback/wide receiver combination as the Hawks look to incorporate more passing into their game plan.

“We obviously trust Skylar to be able to catch the ball with his arm,” Powers said.

Powers and Still admit they still have some work to do to iron out the mistakes, but both expressed excitement ahead of facing the Hawks in Week 1. Powers also talked about the excitement of playing the season opener at home.

“When you host a home game in Week 1, you’re always very excited to see what the team is going to look like,” Powers said. “Obviously we expect some mistakes, but we want to limit them. Week 1 at home can’t get much better than that. A very good program in Charleston comes with Coach Hutch. I know he will have his guys well prepared, as will we.”

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