Gordo QB Tanner Bailey Breaks Collarbone, Expected to Return

The Gordo Greenwave (5-1, 3-0) were in a dogfight with the Northridge Jaguars (6-0, 3-0) on Friday night in a matchup of undefeated Tuscaloosa area schools. The Jaguars ended up earning the victory over the Greenwave 17-13 thanks to an Aileen Charles 26-yard field goal. The loss cost Gordo its perfect record but more importantly the Greenwave lost its highly touted junior quarterback due to a broken collarbone on his non-throwing shoulder.

Bailey broke his collarbone on the Greenwave's final offensive play. Bailey had led his offense down to the 15-yard line and was attempting to orchestrate a go-ahead touchdown with 30-seconds left in the contest. The four-star quarterback rolled to his left, extending a play, but was sacked and fumbled. The Jaguars recovered the fumble and subsequently ended the game.

Bailey underwent surgery on Saturday to repair the broken collarbone. Gordo Head Coach Ryan Lolley said he expects Bailey to make a quick and full recovery and be ready to return to action for the 4A playoffs. The Greenwave has a BYE this week.

"He's certainly, hopeful and excited to get back. He's very mentally tough so he's going to be fine," said Lolley on the injury.

Coach Lolley said Lawson Neel will take over under center in Bailey's absence. Neel has seen extensive playing time at wide receiver and defensive back this season and pulled off a 65-yard punt return for a touchdown in this past weekend's game. Lolley expressed confidence in Neel's ability to lead the Gordo offense while Bailey recovers.

Through six games for the Greenwave, Bailey has completed 63.8 % of his passes for 1,082 yards with 14 touchdowns and only five interceptions. Neel has hauled in seven receptions for 177 yards and three touchdowns as a wide receiver and has made 16 tackles with three interceptions and a pass deflection as a defensive back.

The Greenwave host Hamilton on Oct. 9 in its next game. The Greenwave will play three consecutive regional matchups and then close with a game against Pickens County High School.