Jameel Sewell put up modest numbers in 2003 – his first full season as Hermitage High School (Richmond, VA) starting quarterback. More importantly, the 6-4, 200-pound southpaw gained a lot of experience that would be very beneficial heading into this season. The result? Sewell had an outstanding senior season, completing 106 of 175 passes (60.5%) for 2,001 yards, 27 touchdowns and six interceptions.

He came into 2004 with a strong sense of confidence.

“I came in with a whole different demeanor this year,” Sewell said. “I didn’t want to fail in any aspects – school-wise or athletic-wise. I wanted to be a leader this year. Last year I felt I wasn’t a leader because we had the seniors doing that for us. As the starting quarterback, I knew I had to step up and take responsibility for the team.

“On the field, I was able to read defenses a lot better. It was just there for me. My vision got better because of the experiences I had last year. That one year I had under my belt really gave me a lot of confidence.”

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