Navy coaches are constantly telling the backups at each position that they are only one play away. That now applies to Zach Abey, who is suddenly the No. 2 quarterback.
Abey moved up the depth chart on Monday when it was learned Tago Smith had suffered a season-ending knee injury. Although an untested sophomore with no varsity experience, Abey thinks he is prepared to take control of Navy's triple-option offense if called upon.
"I'm ready to take the next step. I'm definitely confident. I'm comfortable with everything," Abey said after practice on Wednesday. "Coach Jasper has been doing a really good job of coaching me up in meetings and at practice.