The more that Santiago Fernandez watched Army’s run-first scheme, the more he thought about how it is a perfect match for his quarterback skills.
Talking to the Black Knights’ 2024 record-setting signal caller Bryson Daily guided Fernandez more in the direction of West Point.
Fernandez, a senior from The Woodlands Christian Academy, continued Army’s pipeline of Texas high school quarterbacks last week, committing to the Black Knights. He called offensive line coach Cheston Blackshear and then head coach Jeff Monken with his decision.
“It (Army’s offense) my playing style very, very well,” said the 6-foot-4, 200-pound Fernandez, who also received guidance from former Army quarterback Rob Healy. “I am a mobile quarterback and I run a lot. We run a spread offense at TWCA, a ton of RPO (run-pass option) and designed runs for me.”
Fernandez recorded some impressive numbers his junior season at Woodlands Christian – 1,374 rushing yards, 13 rushing TDs, 2,481 passing yard and 29 passing TDs.
West Point’s academics attracted Fernandez to the academy as much as football. He has a 4.43 grade-point average.
“Army West Point is a very prestigious school that not a lot of people have the privilege to attend,” Fernandez said. “I always think ahead in life and had to think about my future as soon as football is over.
“Army prepares you to be the best version of yourself in life and it teaches you how to excel in every aspect of life.”
Army wasn’t Fernandez’s only option to play service-academy football. Navy also offered Fernandez.
“I chose Army because of the culture, coaches, the preparation and tools it provides for you,” said Fernandez, who did not visit Navy. “On top of all that, it’s one of the best football teams in the country.”
