HAWLEY — For much of a very successful tenure at Hawley, eighth-year coach Mitch Ables directed a wide-open spread attack that helped the Bearcats reach unprecedented heights. He then switched to a power running game for two straight seasons and led Hawley to the Region I-2A DI championship game.

One team. One program. But two completely different styles, geared to fit existing personnel. 

We are now seeing a third successful version — one that enters Friday’s game at Colorado City at 8-0. Call it Hawley 3.0, if you will — a balanced offensive attack, backed by what is arguably the best defense in school history.