Bo knows quarterback

Gaffney High quarterback Bo Davidson is completing 67 percent of his passes this season. He's also thrown for a TD and rushed for another. Bo Davidson probably isn't the most-gifted player on the Gaffney High roster. Or the most promising. Or the most celebrated.

But he's likely the most important - and most scrutinized.

But Davidson embraces the role as starting quarterback for the storied program, even if it means being the target of unwarranted criticism when the offense struggles.

"I use the (criticism) as motivation," Davidson said. "I hear I'm too short, I can't throw or that I won't lead the team to a state championship. I just want to go out and prove them wrong."

He's doing just that.

He's mastering the Indians' spread offense which requires quarterbacks to read defensive coverages and make quick, sound judgements.

He also adjusted quickly to the new no-huddle, shotgun offense.

"It's been great," he said. "I don't have to worry about dropping back. I can get a feel for it and throw."

Playing quarterback is in Davidson's DNA. He's the cousin of former Gaffney star quarterback Malcolm Long, who Davidson regularly seeks pointers from.

Davidson played quarterback at age four in a youth football league. He also started at quarterback for Gaffney Middle School and the ninthgrade team.

As a sophomore, he was a backup on the junior varsity. Last season, he split time at quarterback with Joe Craig.

"Last year, was a learning experience," Davidson said. "It showed what I needed to work on."

In the offseason, Davidson dedicated himself to the weight room to increase his arm strength. He also absorbed more Xs and Os in daily sessions with new passing game coordinator Perry Woolbright.

"I'm stronger and in better condition," he said. "I went through drills with coach Woolbright just about every day."

Davidson said Woolbright corrected a flaw in his throwing mechanics.

"I dropped my elbow. Now, I have it high," he said.

During the season, he spends at least six hours a week watching video. The film study has paid off. Davidson has completed 29 of his 43 passes, or 67 percent of his passes, for 345 yards. In the team's thrashing of Union on Friday, he was a perfect 8 for 8.

"I think I'm doing pretty good," he said. "I have worked hard. I've always had the mindset and never doubted myself."

Davidson doesn't look at his 5-9, 150 lbs. frame as a negative.

"I don't think it's a disadvantage," he said. "I don't really look over the (offensive line), I just look for a passing lane."

As quarterback, Davidson is aware that his job description requires him to do more than just move the chains.

"I know I have to set the tone," he said. "When people get down, I let them know the game isn't over until it's over."