By Michael West, Contributing Writer
Akili Smith Jr. and his Lincoln High School Hornets started their 2024 season the same way they ended their 2023 season. The Hornets fell short of victory as time expired on a drive to win the game in the final minute. That was no reflection on how well the quarterback played, however.
Akili Smith Jr. is an exceptional quarterback. Based on the highlights of Saturday’s game against a known powerhouse opponent (the Las Vegas Arbor View Aggies), Smith may break records this year. Smith completed 21 of 31 passes for 232 yards, and 4 touchdowns (and 1 interception). He also ran for a TD.
The most impressive aspect of Smith’s maturity is his footwork and quick release. Last year, the athletic quarterback heavily relied on his arm strength to complete deep passes. He often held the ball for close to 3 seconds before throwing to his receivers (the average time a quarterback has to throw is 3 seconds). Now, Smith throws his passes in about 2 ½ seconds. I cannot stress the importance of that improvement.
Cast in point: in the Saturday, August 24th game, Smith set his feet rapidly, then threw the ball immediately. That is a key skill because in college and the NFL, a quarterback must locate the best person to throw to within two seconds, or he may get sacked. Or, if he waits longer than 2 seconds, his target may not be open- which happens often-especially in the NFL. Smith has mastered this skill.
I watched Smith perform in games last year and camp highlights from this summer. The biggest difference I have noted is his throwing release as he sets his feet. He used to set his feet first, then throw. Now Smith sets and throws in one motion-which makes it more difficult for even the best defensive backs to defend effectively.
Smith will throw more touchdowns this season because of that one key skill. Last season he threw 23 touchdowns. I believe he will throw more than 30 touchdowns this year. That kind of production will make him San Diego’s best quarterback, and possibly, a top-five quarterback in California.
You can see the highlights of Saturday’s game as posted August 25th on Akii Smith’s X account here.
