Hawkins is leading Team USA with arm and attitude

Cody Hawkins has shined during the first two games of IFAF Senior World Championship group play. The U.S. Men's National Team starting quarterback has been extraordinarily efficient for Team USA, connecting on 26-of-32 passes for an 81 percent completion rating. He has thrown for 352 yards and three touchdowns, with most of those statistics coming in the first halves of the games because of substantial U.S. leads.

But it's been his leadership that has helped solidify the squad as Team USA looks to defend its gold medal. Whether in meetings or on the field, Hawkins has displayed the qualities looked for in a national team player. This was most evident during a 61-0 win over Australia in which Hawkins chased down a blocked extra-point return, tackling the Australian runner inside the 10-yard line to preserve the shutout.

Hawkins is doing it with his arm as well. Against Australia, he completed first half touchdown passes to RB Nate Kmic and WR Alex Anderson, throwing just two incompletions during the contest in earning game MVP honors for his performances.

He steadied the U.S. offensive attack during a 48-7 win over Germany with his 13-of-17 performance for 152 yards. Hawkins has yet to throw an interception during the tournament.

“We came to win gold,” Hawkins said.  “No one wants to finish second. It is America’s game, and we take a lot of pride in that. We expect the best from ourselves, and even though everyone on our team came from different levels and from all over the country, we have no problem coming together for one goal.”

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