Chauncey Caldwell decided that he needed a change to get better. The 6-3, 218-pound senior signal-caller left Hillside High in Durham to come to nationally-ranked Mallard Creek High in Charlotte. So far this season, Caldwell and the Mavericks have a 3-0 record heading into a bye week. This past Friday, Caldwell accounted for a touchdown run in a 21-14 win over Byrnes SC.

NCPreps.com's Chris Hemphill caught up with Caldwell this weekend and he had the following thoughts about football, life, and Mallard Creek Football.

How does it feel to take over the lead position for one of the top football powers in the nation?

“It feels awesome. It is truly a blessing. I am around an amazing coaching staff and outstanding players.”

How does it feel to be committed and ending the recruiting process?

“My recruiting process was stressful, but once I gave it to God I found my home. So it was a lot of weight off my plate.“

What are your goals this season?

“My #1 goal is to win a state championship and that's my only goal.”

Do you feel pressure to help deliver another state title to Mallard Creek and keep the streak of titles alive?

“I don't feel the pressure at all. God has prepared me for this and preparation is everything. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me and in my eyes the impossible is nothing. I know we will achieve all of our goals as a team.”

So far this season which game have you enjoyed playing in the most?

“I have enjoyed playing against Dillon High School because it was a tough win in a tough environment. It was my first game as a Creek boy so it was an awesome experience.”

What’s different about Mallard Creek than your old school?

“Mallard creek is just like college. Nothing against my old school, but Mallard Creek is a very special place. I thank God every day for blessing me with the opportunity to be at Mallard Creek High School.”

Who are your biggest influences?

“My biggest influences are my mom and dad. They have been there for me through it all. They constantly keep me humble and make me a better man every day. Honestly without my parents, I don't know where I would be lol, but I'm just a blessed individual.”

What’s the longest touchdown you have thrown for or ran for?

“The longest touchdown I have ran for was an 80-yard TD my freshman year to win the game against our rival. My longest passing TD was an 83-yard TD to one of my best friend Daeshawn Stephens, who is now at NC State.”

How much do you bench?

“Right now I bench 265.”

What mechanics have you worked on in the off-season to help you be successful?

“I have stressed my footwork. That was my main problem from my junior year to now.”

How often do you watch game film to study defenses?

“I'm always trying to getting better and have non-stop growth. I am never satisfied with anything. I'm always looking to get better.”

Who is your favorite NFL team and player?

“My favorite NFL team changes on whoever is winning haha. But Cam Newton is my favorite player because we have similar stories.”

What is something your good at outside of football?

“I am good at track, also. I can play almost every instrument and I sing in church on my free time.”

What is your favorite movie?

“Friday Night Lights.”

What makes you a leader?

“I am a leader because I follow God and he uses me to lead my peers. God guides me and that allows others to follow me to the promise land.”