ROCKINGHAM — The Richmond Raider football team’s offense has already shown its clicking on all cylinders this summer, showcasing its developing talent at several 7-on-7 competitions.
Comprised mostly of underclassmen, sprinkled in with a couple of seniors, the Raider starting offense is looking to maintain its fast pace of play as the season opener nears. Under the direction of third-year offensive coordinator Brad Denson, the Raiders are led by junior quarterback Caleb Hood, who enters his third year in the starting role.
Joining Hood in the backfield is third-year senior running back Jaheim Covington, and flanking them on the outside are junior wide receivers Jakolbe Baldwin and Dalton Stroman. Getting in on the mix this season will be junior slot receiver Tremel Jones, along with seniors Alex Branch, Armond Martin, Zierre McCray and Justin Morman.
Also not to be forgotten is the Richmond offensive line, headlined by seniors Brian Bowden and Austin Hart, as well as junior Jaleel Davis.
ROSports introduces its “Raider Video Chats” video series, aimed at giving readers a chance to hear from players and coaches from all of Richmond’s programs. In this edition, Baldwin, Davis, Denson and Hood offer their respective thoughts on the upcoming season and what the offense has been working on this preseason.
Brad Denson, offensive coordinator
In his interview following Monday’s practice, Denson discusses the development of the Raider offense from the position players, as well as the offensive line. He gives insight to what the Raiders hope to accomplish on the offensive side of the ball this season. (click photo for video)
Caleb Hood, junior quarterback
Fresh off his second straight selection to the All-Sandhills Athletic Conference team and captaining the Raiders to the third round of the 4AA state playoffs last season, Hood enters his junior campaign with two years of experience. He talks about the offense’s “continuity” and some personal goals he’d like to achieve in 2019. (click photo for video)
Jakolbe Baldwin, junior wide receiver
Baldwin broke onto the scene as a sophomore last season, and finished the year with a team-high eight receiving touchdowns. He’s looking to keep that momentum going this fall, as he just received his first Division-I offer from N.C. State. Baldwin talks about being a part of such a dynamic offense. (click photo for video)
Jaleel Davis, junior left tackle
With the departure of a couple offensive linemen last season, Davis will be among those who will have to step up and fill the gap this fall. At 6-5, 290 pounds, Davis is a strong presence on the offensive line and will be tasked with protecting Hood’s blind side. Hear him discuss the offensive line’s development this summer. (click photo for video)
ROSports will continue its Raider Chats series later this week with the Richmond defense and head coach Bryan Till.