The Colonels’ first football game of the season is against Airforce Academy in Colorado Springs. Leading the way will be senior quarterback Kalen Henderson after a very heated quarterback battle between Henderson, redshirt senior Beaux Hebert and junior Tuskani Figaro. Coach Charlie Stubbs said his decision to start Henderson comes from the way he progressed during the offseason.
Henderson, a transfer from the University of Tulsa, appeared in 11 games in two seasons with the Golden Hurricanes and six games with one start last season with the Colonels.
Stubbs said, “The decision to start Henderson for Saturday’s game is because of his leadership qualities and what he can bring to the table for the Colonels’ offense.”
Last season, Hebert appeared in eight games with three starts and completed 61 of 105 passes for 692 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions. Figaro appeared in 11 games with eight starts and ranked second in the Southland Conference in rushing with 100.3 yards per game, rushing for seven total touchdowns, throwing for 1,135 yards and eight touchdowns’ combining for 15 total touchdowns.
Last season, Henderson appeared in six games with one start, throwing for 785 yards with four touchdowns and five interceptions.
Stubbs said, “The competition is still open because it goes week to week, and the starting job is not safe for an entire season.”
Stubbs hopes to not play Figaro at all this season because it would use his redshirt year and hopes Hebert will play if the opportunity presents itself.
Henderson felt honored to be named starting quarterback. “I was excited and glad coach Stubbs had enough confidence in me to lead the team against Airforce Saturday,” Henderson said.
Henderson hopes the offensive improvement will be present for the game. The offense improved with the receiving corps and has a strong running attack for the season.
The quarterback competition was fierce all offseason, and having Henderson as starting quarterback going into Saturday’s game gives himself more confidence to lead the Colonels to a victory.
During the season scrimmages, the quarterbacks combined for 295 yards through the air, showing a big improvement in the passing game. Hebert’s best performance came in the second scrimmage when he completed eight of 11 passes for 83 yards and two touchdowns. Henderson also threw for 80 yards and two touchdowns.
Figaro’s best performance was in the first scrimmage when he completed five passes of six attempts for 50 yards.
Hebert said, “All three quarterbacks have tremendous respect for one another.” They understand the coach will place the player where he feels will give the team the best chance to succeed. The quarterbacks understand that they cannot all start but are hopeful they will get the chance to contribute to the team during the season.