Two-A-Days: Autauga Academy Football

The Autauga Academy football team put together a 9-2 record last year. They did go out in the first round of the playoffs, but they’re just getting started.

The Generals are entering their second season playing AHSAA football, which comes with perks — less travel, more money and fiercer competition.

“We went from AISA, so we didn’t have the same kind of — there’s different rules, different teams,” said Barrett McIntyre, a senior wide receiver and cornerback. “We never knew who we’re playing. Public school is definitely a little tougher. And first year, we didn’t know any of the teams that were playing, who they had, what they had. So I mean, it was harder, but I think we’re more prepared this time.”

Autauga Academy football head coach Jeremy Carter said quarterback Logan Dunaway has emerged as a vocal leader. While he did play some sophomore year, he’s entering his second season leading the program’s offensive system.

“Logan’s a senior this year, and he’s really stepped up as quarterback,” Carter said. “Last year, he stepped in. This year, his role has changed as a leader, that vocal teammate that he needs to be. I’m proud of him. Plus another year under our offensive scheme is going to help him out.”

Dunaway said the team’s brotherhood should benefit the Generals this season.

“We got a bunch of leadership on the team, a lot of seniors, so we’ve been playing together for a lot of years, and we got that chemistry,” Dunaway said. “I think we’re going to do good this year.”

The Generals made the transition from the Alabama Independent School Association to AHSAA last season, joining the ranks of Alabama’s public school athletic competition.