Over halfway through the regular season, B.E.S.T. Academy is 5-2 and off to the best start in school history. A major reason? The play from standout senior Curtis Hurt, who has contributed on both sides of the football, grabbing 62 tackles, 4 interceptions (including a pick-six), and 4 forced fumbles on defense; plus offensively, Hurt has 326 all-purpose yards, 1 receiving touchdown, 2 rushing touchdowns, and a passing touchdown.
“Through the halfway point of the season, it’s been a great run. We’re 5-2 and continuing to work toward our goal of making the playoffs,” Hurt said.
B.E.S.T. just recently beat Manchester 36-20, where Hurt had the game of his life. The senior totaled 20 tackles, 12 solo, 2 tackles for a loss, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 interception on defense, and then on offense, 97 total yards with a rushing and passing touchdown each. His Week 8 performance was among the best individual games of the 2026 season so far, and was rightfully voted Player of the Week on the site.
Hurt spoke about the big performance against Manchester and looks forward to a strong finish.
“Winning our first region game was a big step in the right direction. I’ve been able to grow as a leader while also learning from my teammates along the way. Overall, it’s been a great season, and we’ve learned a lot since day one. I’m looking forward to finishing strong and continuing to lead by example, not only through my words but also through my performance on the field.”
The B.E.S.T. community speaks highly of Hurt, and you can see the great support he received with almost 1k votes in 24 hours. At 6’1″, 175 lbs., Hurt has a great frame to add weight and become a defensive stopper at the next level.
The senior attributes his improved focus to a major difference in his productivity jump, going from a 2nd team All-Region junior to one of the best players in the region. Hurt talked about focusing on the minutia and becoming a more complete football player.
“I’ve improved at focusing on the little things and doing them right so that the big things come naturally. I’ve also learned the importance of doing my job, trusting my teammates, and understanding that success comes from everyone doing their part.” He continued, “I’ve improved at focusing on the little things and doing them right so that the big things come naturally. I’ve also learned the importance of doing my job, trusting my teammates, and understanding that success comes from everyone doing their part.”
The senior is a thoughtful student-athlete, so when asked about how he would like to finish the season, Hurt’s response was nuanced, saying, “My personal goals for the season are to help the team win games, stay consistent in my performance, and remain humble throughout the process. I want to continue leading by example, putting the team first, and doing whatever it takes to help us succeed.”
Although his recruiting interest is still gaining steam, Hurt said that Clark Atlanta and SE Missouri State have reached out. The senior is staying optimistic throughout the process, saying, “I’m continuing to work hard, improve my game, and get my name out there in hopes of creating more opportunities to play football at the next level.”
For now, Hurt has no recruiting visits planned, but that should change, especially with local programs vying for impact players who have slipped through the cracks. That certainly describes Hurt, so follow @RecruitGeorgia on Twitter/X to see the latest on Hurt and players across Georgia.
