DATE: Friday, November 21, 1997             TAG: 9711210916

SECTION: SPORTS                  PAGE: C5   EDITION: FINAL 

SOURCE: RICH RADFORD

LENGTH: 28 lines

BOOKERS TO TEST CURRY'S RUNNING

BOOKER T. COACH FEELS CRABBERS QB IS MORE DANGEROUS WHEN HE'S PASSING.

If you're wondering just how focused Hampton High quarterback Ronald Curry is when it comes to possibly winning a third Division 5 state football championship, maybe his stats lend a clue.

In 10 games this season, Curry has passed for 20 touchdowns, but he's also scored 20, either rushing or returning kicks or interceptions.

How's that for 20/20 vision?

If it's a matter of picking your poison, however, Booker T. Washington coach Larry Stepney said he'd prefer to test Curry's running ability.

``I think he's more dangerous throwing down the field,'' Stepney said. ``He gets it down the field quicker that way. We'll play the pass and let him run.''

Hampton, which will be shooting for its 38th consecutive victory, is an overwhelming favorite. If the Bookers are to prosper, Stepney says they must keep it close.

``Hampton plays even better when they get up on you,'' Stepney said. ``We've got to keep it close. Then if we get into the fourth quarter, there's a reason we're known as the Cardiac Kids.''

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