Oakland football makes two-quarterback system work in win over Independence

There are those who don’t believe in a two-quarterback system.

So far, it’s worked just fine for Oakland’s football team.

The Patriots utilized senior Timmy Goodrich and junior Brevin Linnell during Friday’s 38-6 win over visiting Independence, and both contributed in different ways.

That’s not a surprise to Patriots coach Kevin Creasy.

“When I was at Trousdale County, we went 28-1 and won two state titles with quarterbacks rotating every play,” said Creasy. “I’ve kind of had good experience with it.”

Goodrich was the star of the night, rushing for 120 yards on seven carries and two touchdowns (42, 47). He attempted just one pass.

The senior rejoined the team after having not played football in a couple of years.

“We both have just practiced hard every day (since spring), sometimes watching film until 11 at night,” said Goodrich. “Coach Creasy was on us about watching film. We have both worked too hard to lose.”

The duo didn’t rotate plays, but both shared equal time. Creasy went with the hot hand at times and said he would continue do to so.

“There’s no animosity between the two of them,” Creasy said. “At the end of the day they’re the first one to greet the other after a good play. They have a team concept first.”

Linnell was 3-for-4 for 72 yards as Oakland attempted (and completed) only two passes in the second half after building a 24-6 advantage at intermission.

“Timmy is a great quarterback and does a great job running,” said Linnell, who is also the team’s holder on extra points and field goals. “We both root for each other. I want him to be successful.”

The duo is combining to replace Brendan Matthews, who guided Oakland to a 14-1 record and Class 6A BlueCross Bowl appearance last season. Independence also reached the state title game in 5A last year.

Playing two quarterbacks sometimes hurts momentum. It didn’t affect Linnell and Goodrich on Friday.

“That can be the hard part of it, but we are both ready when it’s time to go in,” Linnell said.

Added Goodrich, “We have a good balance. He can make any throw and I can run.”

While Oakland’s quarterbacks were getting the job done on offense, the Patriot defense held Independence to single digits for the first time since Sept. 19, 2014. During that streak the Eagles had scored at least 21 points in 36 consecutive games.

Reach Cecil Joyce at cjoyce@dnj.com or 615-278-5168 and on Twitter @Cecil_Joyce.