Colton High School football has two new quarterbacks on the team. I interviewed both athletes and asked questions that I thought people would find interesting. I really enjoyed interviewing Seniors Austin McFarland and Daniel Smith.

How does it feel to be one of the starting quarterbacks?

Daniel: I feel good that the my team looks up to us. We are both seniors, it’s not that any one of us is better. We just do our jobs very well.

Austin: It feels good when the team has your back and you can lead them.

Do you feel more pressure than last year?

Daniel: I feel more pressure than last year because everyone is expecting me to repeat CIF.

Austin: I feel a lot more pressure because we won CIF last year and it’s my senior year.

Do you like being in the spotlight?

Daniel: I think I play better because everyone is watching.

Austin: For the most part people admire you, but you can’t mess up.

Do all the girls want to talk to you because you’re the starting quarterback?

Daniel: Not really, they all knew me from before.

Austin: Some do, but you have to focus on football and school.

How do you deal with, losses, bad games, or disappointment?

Daniel: As long as everyone gave 100% that’s good, you have to put it in the past.

Austin: With losses we go back and watch film and learn. I don’t get disappointed; you just pick up your spirits.

Who taught you how to play football?

Daniel: Watching my brothers growing up, especially my brother Ryan.

Austin: My step dad Billy.

Is there any other position or sport that you would like to play?

Daniel: Defensive back and quarterback.

Austin: Receiver and wrestling.

Are you the team leader on the team? Who else?

Daniel: I think so; being captain they listen to me and listen to the majority of things I say.

Austin: Yes, but I’m not real talkative, but I’m a leader in the huddle.

How many times a week do you practice?

Daniel: Practices are three days a week, four hours a day, Tuesdays are the hardest.

Austin: Three days a week now, and five days a week before the season started.

Where do you plan on going to college, if at all?

Daniel: Not really sure, my options are open. I have a scholarship to Eastern Washington.

Austin: Anyone who will take me. ASU would be my dream school.

How long do you plan to play football? Career or just for college?

Daniel: As long as my body will take it!

Austin: Through college, but not a career, I love it.

Is there any school you look forward to playing this season?

Daniel: I’m looking forward to playing Cajon, since we lost league to them last year.

Austin: Summit, they are ranked number and of course Cajon.

Is there anything special or lucky that you do or wear for games a ritual?

Daniel: I write my two favorite brother’s name on the tape on my wrist (Jimmy and Ryan).

Austin: I have lucky underwear!

Do you have any siblings that play football or any other sport?

Daniel: My brother Jimmy plays for the Baltimore Ravens.

Austin: My two step brothers play football at Jehue Middle School.

How old were you when you started playing football?

Daniel: I was nine years old.

Austin: I was ten years old.

What professional player do you feel you are most like and look up to?

Daniel: Antonio Cromartie-New York Jets

Austin: Drew Brees -New Orleans Saints

Do you hang-out with you teammates outside of football or school?

Daniel: I hang-out with the offensive side more. We usually go out to eat (a lot).

Austin: I hang-out with my teammates during the weekend or when we have time.

What are your hobbies?

Daniel: I like to work out and listen to music.

Austin: I like to hang out with my family and play video games.

Do you have any family members, such as your dad, grandfather, or uncles who have played here at CHS?

Daniel: Four of my brothers, Ryan, Terrance, Jimmy and Anthony.

Austin: My step-dad, Billy Hernandez, 1994.

Is it hard to balance academics (grades) and football during the season?

Daniel: No, I don’t think so. I think if you really want to play, then you’ll get good grades.

Austin: No, it’s grades, then football. You have to have balance and focus.

Who do you go to for advice about football and life?

Daniel: My brother Ryan. He gives good advice about everything.

Austin: My step dad, Billy. He always has good advice for me.