Starting the season as a reserve inside linebacker behind a pair of senior captains, Anthony Daniel wasn’t necessarily expecting to play a leading role for the Abilene High defense this year.

But the 6-foot, 190-pound senior made sure he was prepared to do so, if called upon.

As circumstances would dictate, Daniel was indeed needed in a starting capacity. And since replacing the injured Maison Dickinson in Week 1, he’s done his best to ensure there was no discernible drop-off in the middle of the Eagle defense.