Huntington anchored by Darnell Wright again after semifinal run

– By Matt Minard, WVMetroNews.com

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — “Freak.”

That’s the first word that came to Huntington coach Billy Seals’ mind when asked about senior left tackle Darnell Wright.

“As big as he is, his athleticism, his length, his intangibles; a lot of that is just God-given,” said Seals of Huntington’s blind-side sensation.

Wright is the No. 1 ranked offensive tackle and overall No. 2 ranked prospect in the nation for the Class of 2019. He has drawn interest from the likes of Alabama, Ohio State and Georgia, among many others.

If that doesn’t intimidate opposing linemen across the state, consider the fact that Wright stands 6’7, 315 pounds — and is still growing.

While national recruiting attention could easily go to a young athlete’s head, Seals was quick to praise Wright’s modesty and focus on team success.

“He understands that he still plays for Huntington High School,” said Seals. “That’s his sole focus and he’s been very humble about the whole process.”

Wright is set to lead a Highlander squad that finished the 2017 regular season undefeated with a No. 1 ranking. However, things came to a bitter end with a 10-7 loss to Spring Valley in the state semifinals.

Huntington has to replace several key guys, but does return some important pieces. Wright will be joined on the offensive line by fellow all-state senior Max Howell.

That experience up front will be key to helping a Highlanders’ backfield that is full of new faces. The departure of first team all-state running back Jadon Hayes leaves a big question mark in the Highlanders offense.

“You don’t replace a Jadon Hayes,” said Seals. “You just can’t replace a guy like that with one guy to be honest.”

Replacing over 2,800 all-purpose yards isn’t easy, but Seals plans to use a running back-by-committee approach this year.

“We feel good about 2 or 3 guys we have back there,” said Seals. “Devin Jackson and Ty Wilcox are the guys, along with Malik Johnson.”

The Highlanders will also have a new face under center in 2018 with the graduation of 2017 starter Luke Zban. Rising junior Ta’Jhan Blackwell will be the signal caller this season, and his skill set brings a much different look to the offense.

“He probably fits our zone read scheme better,” said Seals. “We’re looking forward to seeing what he brings to the field.”

6-foot-3 senior Bryce Damous also returns after making 15 catches for 250 yards in 2017.

Seals is entering his 10th season at the helm with Huntington. Despite a very successful decade of Highlander football, Seals’ primary mission remains unchanged.

“Our goal is to win a state championship,” said Seals. “And as long as I’m at Huntington High, that’s gonna be the goal every year.”

Huntington has come close, losing a tight 9-7 battle to Martinsburg in the 2013 AAA final. The Highlanders followed this with runs to the state semifinals in 2014 and 2017.

“We’ve knocked on the door twice since 2013, but we gotta learn to kick that door in,” said Seals. “We’re looking forward to that opportunity.”

The Highlanders open their season Friday, August 24th on the road against Belfry (KY).