Long on statistics, short on offers

MALCOLM LONG Gaffney quarterback Malcolm Long is sure to be on college recruiters' radar now.

Not exactly.

Despite completing 61 percent of his passes, throwing 20 touchdown passes and tossing just six interceptions - and, of course - leading the Indians to a convincing 28-15 win over nationally-ranked Byrnes, Long has just one scholarship offer from South Carolina State.

Appalachian State and Western Carolina have made contact with Long but haven't offered a scholarship.

"I would like to have more scholarship offers," Long said. "I just try to go out there and play ball."

In addition to the stats, Long also has demonstrated an important trait in quarterbacks - leadership.

Last December, he calmly led the Indians

on a last-minute march to capture the team's second state championship in three years.

He's followed that performance with eye popping stats this season. He also got a chance to showcase his talents last Thursday before a nationally televised audience against the Rebels. In that game, Long displayed his running talent, rushing for 56 yards - just two less than Byrnes' Willy Korn, widely considered the No. 2 prep quarterback prospect in the nation by recruiting analysts.

Long said if no more scholarship offers come along, he'd be content to attend South Carolina State.

"Right now my focus is trying to get the team back to the state championship," he said. "If the offers come, they come."