Last year, with quarterback Tyler Jackson and fellow senior Cole Heutzenroeder carrying the bulk of the on- and off-field leadership load for Hico, Tyler Hunt was able to shine in a supporting role.

After rushing for 764 yards and eight touchdowns in that capacity, the senior will be graduating to leading man status this fall.

Hunt, who doubles as a linebacker on the defensive side of the ball, will be asked to be a two-way standout and key senior leader for an HHS team that’s entering a tough new district that features four teams ranked in Dave Campbell’s preseason top-25. And second-year head coach Britt Hart said those roles couldn’t be in better hands as the Tigers look to earn their sixth playoff berth in seven years.