East Lake were regional semifinalists last season in-spite of them hitting a few road bumps along the way in 2015. They weren’t the customary high-flying Eagles that we’ve witnessed in recent history, but a regional semifinals appearance is a lot better than countless other programs can claim they made it to nonetheless.

Someone will have to replace Bobby Goldinak following his 1,000+ yard performance on the season and entering spring ball they’ll have no fewer than five guys competing for the starting spot according to Head Coach Bob Hudson. Two of those guys will be in attendance this Sunday, while another was a solid performer during his camp sessions with us last spring and summer.

Tyler Rupe and Jackson Rowland will be making their way to Lakeland on Sunday and will be competing with Leland Johansen IV and Jon Jon Kostansis–once he makes his way over from baseball. Rupe (6-3/195) was 16-of-28 in five games according to maxpreps.com with 198 yards, a touchdown and an interception. We asked Hudson about Rowland and Rupe and even though it’s way too early to predict a leader in the race at this point, coach did shine some light on the players and his program heading into spring.

“They all bring different things to the table. Tyler and Jackson are both big kids and both have pretty good arms. They’re both getting better every day with coverages and learning the offense and controlling it. They both do a great job–great kids, great leaders. Either one of them can win games for us.”

While he may have plenty of rising seniors to choose from at the QB position, that won’t be the case this spring, as East Lake will have their work cutout for them in terms of experience. ” We have 76 kids on the roster and 44 of them are sophomores heading into their junior seasons. We’re still young.”