L.D. Bell football rides high with 6-0 start

By Greg Bogomol

Special to the Star-Telegram

Heading into 2012, Hurst L.D. Bell had 11 returning starters, but quarterback wasn't one of them.

That vacancy wasn't filled until fall workouts, when Colson Romano nailed it down.

"In the spring I came in as the backup and towards the end of it I earned the starting job," Romano said. "Then the job came up for question in the fall again and I separated myself. I just spent a lot of time working with the receivers and working on my strength and footwork in the pocket."

Romano, who spent his sophomore season on JV, has taken charge of an offense that has averaged 436.1 yards per game. The Blue Raiders are off to a 6-0 start including 3-0 in District 6-5A. Romano has completed over 68 percent of his passes (104-152) totaling 1,475 yards and 18 scores, while being picked off just three times.

"I knew we were going to be good with the starters back we had on the offensive line, but I didn't think I would be putting up the numbers I have been," Romano said. "I spent a lot of time watching film and recognizing the defenses. I wouldn't be where I am now though if it wasn't for my offensive line. I've only been sacked twice and I give them all the credit."

Romano's favorite target has been Aaron Dixon, who has hauled in 43 catches for 743 yards and 13 scores. Keli Bol has added 12 catches for 203 yards and one score and Nate Gillard has added 19 receptions for 201 yards. Ten others have caught at least one pass as well.

"Aaron is one of guys I just catch myself watching and saying wow," Bell coach Mark Smith said. "Aaron has shown signs of doing this the last couple years, but he wasn't our main target. This year he has stepped into that role. He's played consistently and constantly grades out high. Not only can he catch and score, but he's a great blocker and does all the things it takes for a receiver to be great."

Smith hopes that the team can continue to improve this week against rival Euless Trinity, and in future weeks.

"Colson has played great and been really consistent and improved each week," Smith said. "When we got a guy who hasn't taken a varsity snap and now six games into his varsity career have improved every week. I like where he and the team are going. We've got good players around him and great targets for him to throw to as well as a line that's done their job."

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