The Hernando County football players of the week

LB Sam Sternberger, Sr., Hernando

Sam Sternberger, one of the best linebackers in Hernando County — and the state — is a tackling machine. 

Since becoming a starter two years ago, Sternberger has averaged more than 80 tackles per season. And he is a dependable target as a tight end, too. 

Two weeks ago, Sternberger finished with 12 tackles on defense and had two receptions for 35 yards on offense in a loss to Lakeland Kathleen.

Fans were impressed. Sternberger had 49 percent of the votes (1,789) in the Hernando County football player of the week poll to finish in a tie with Nature Coast’s Ethan Fahey. 

QB Ethan Fahey, Sr., Hernando

Last season, Ethan Fahey earned the starting job at quarterback because of his arm. After all, he threw for 1,140 yards and 15 touchdowns as a junior. 

Because of injuries to receivers, Fahey has not been able to duplicate those numbers this season. 

Still, he has been efficiently moving the chains by using his feet. 

The dual threat has thrown — and rushed — for more than 500 yards this season. 

Two weeks ago, he ran for 200 yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries and threw for 100 more and another score in a win over Hudson. 

Fans took notice. Fahey received 49 percent of the votes (1,765) in the Hernando County football player of the week poll to finish in a tie with Hernando’s Sam Sternberger.