Midway football coach Cory Barnes

New Midway football coach Cory Barnes has been installing a pistol spread offense as the Raiders have been conducting spring football practice.

Barnes was previously offensive coordinator at North Johnston. He played and later was on the coaching staff at Triton prior to that. He follows Jason Fussell as coach of the Raiders.

“It’s going well so far,” Barnes said. “We’re installing a new offense. The kids are really taking to it and they’re excited about it. The most we’ve had is 45 kids, which is pretty good for a 2-A high school.”

The new offense will include some dive option, some run-pass options as well as some vertical passing and designed runs.

“It’s a lot of option football,” Barnes said.

Carson Calcutt quarterbacked the Raiders last season.

“I’ve met Carson,” Barnes said. “He’s been playing baseball. I’ve got some guys learning the position that could possibly fill in right there. It’s new. When something is new, you take baby steps with it.

“The throwing will come because they’re moving from an offense where they didn’t throw it as much. … From what I’ve seen of Carson on film, I think he can be that guy but it’s open competition. He’s got to earn it.”

Rising senior Carsse Lucas, who played receiver last year, has been working at quarterback.

“He’s very fluid,” Barnes said.

The new Raiders coach has been putting together a staff. Billy McLamb will be defensive coordinator. Brandon Powell will coach defensive line. Tim Jackson will be assisting in some capacity. Austin Tart will coach varsity receivers and be the head coach of the junior varsity.

“We’re working on some others,” Barnes said.