Daphne dual threat QB Trent Battle finds comfort zone during junior season
By Ben Thomas, AL.com
Battle is completing 61 percent of his passes this season for 1,343 yards. He has been intercepted just once. He also has rushed for 402 yards on 56 carries – an average of 7.2 yards every time he runs the ball.
“He is a true dual-threat guy,” Golson said. “I wouldn’t call him a running quarterback, but he can hurt you running the ball. I think his numbers speak for themselves really.”
Golson said Battle’s skill set reminds him of a pair of quarterbacks he tutored while at McGill. Paris Chambers and Bubba Thompson both led the Yellow Jackets to the Class 7A championship game during their senior years. King’s praise for his quarterback and Battle’s potential is just as high.
“His future can be through the roof,” King said. “He can be a kid who completely takes over a game. You’ve seen it done here by guys like (Daphne alumni and former West Virginia star) Pat White. He gives us a chance to put points on the board every week.”
Golson, King and Battle said the biggest difference in Battle’s game this year was offseason repetition during spring and summer workouts and 7-on-7 competition. He also spent some time with quarterback guru David Morris at QB Country.
“I think that was good for him,” Golson said. “We were able to talk about some things and work on some things. I think the biggest thing with Trent in the passing game this year is that he is able to understand, not only what we are trying to do, but what the defense is trying to do and how we want to attack it. It’s almost like last year was a trial year for him.”