NATCHEZ — When starting quarterback Tyler Stockstill suffered a concussion against Centreville Academy last season, Carlos Woods was given an opportunity to lead the Adams County Christian School Rebels.

As a junior, Woods felt the pressure. After all, he was serving as quarterback on a team that was destined to play for an MAIS AA State Championship.

“I did not handle Carlos well last year,” ACCS head coach David King said. “I was too rough on him early. He’s a very well mannered, kind-hearted kid. Carlos has taught me a lot coaching him. I’ve got to get off of him a little bit and let him do his thing.”

With Woods at quarterback, ACCS reached the state title game against Centreville Academy, the same team that caused him to jump in the saddle as quarterback. The Rebels ultimately fell 35-21, though, coming just short of a state title.

Still one can’t dismiss the success the Rebels had, going 12-2. During the Rebels’ dominant season, Woods accounted for 1,549 passing yards and 22 touchdowns. And heading into 2015, Woods is looking to add another wrinkle to his game.

“This summer, I was trying to build speed, because I knew I was losing most of my linemen from last year,” Woods said. “I got my arm stronger, too.”

Now at 5’10”, 175 pounds, Woods has a 4.76 40-yard dash time heading into the season. King said Woods’ added dimension would cause opposing defensive coordinators to game plan for Woods’ ability to scramble out of the pocket and make plays with his feet.

“With his strength and speed that he’s picked up, he can tuck the ball and run this year,” King said. “Last year, he couldn’t quite do that. He wasn’t strong or fast enough. But ultimately, in a football game, your quarterback is the guy. Carlos is that guy this year. He’s going to make plays because he can throw the ball. I’m excited about his opportunity this year.”

Though the jury is still out on half of ACCS’ offensive line, with Chris Sikes and JO Adams anchoring the right side of the offensive line (two 280-plus pound linemen), the Rebels will likely focus on a ground-and-pound attack in 2015. With durable, gritty backs like Chisum Mardis and Jordan Wells carrying the load behind them, Woods’ strong arm will come into play when teams try to stack the box against the Rebels. Woods is aware of his responsibilities in 2015, but he’s also not convinced the Rebels will shy heavily away from the passing game.

“(King’s) going to run it, but that’s going to get boring to him,” Woods said. “I just know he’s going to want to throw it.”

The end goal for Woods is to reach another state championship game, except this time, he hopes to finish on top with his teammates.

“If we get to that big stage again, I plan on winning,” Woods said.