The Herald Journal - Week 1

MC D saves day

By Jason Turner

Published:

Sunday, August 24, 2008 2:16 AM CDT

Winning the turnover and field position battles have always been key components to success on the football field.

Just ask the Mustangs.

Mountain Crest helped force six turnovers and scored three touchdowns on drives that started in Highland territory en route to earning a hard-fought 26-21 victory over the Rams in the season opener for both schools Saturday afternoon at Romney Stadium.

“We don’t have a chance if we don’t get those turnovers,” MC head coach Mark Wootton said. “You know, the thing I was excited about was just the effort our kids gave. You look at Highland and they’re so big and physical and we were so outmanned size-wise, but these Mountain Crest kids, they don’t ever back down.”

Despite struggling against Highland’s vaunted rushing attack, the Mustangs indeed didn’t back down defensively when they really needed to. In fact, Mountain Crest held firm in the final two minutes of the contest, preventing the Rams from scoring the game-winning touchdown.

After they were penalized 15 yards on their third sideline warning, the Mustangs made three straight huge defensive plays to preserve the victory. First, grossly undersized defensive tackle Raider Lofthouse sacked Highland quarterback Nick Orchard for a four-yard loss at the Mountain Crest 40-yard line. One play later, MC safety Chandler Smith knocked the ball away from wide receiver Josh Anderson at the last second. Had Anderson caught the ball, he would have scored.

“I was a little nervous on that, I thought he was gonna catch it maybe because he was behind everyone,” MC senior Ethan Rasmussen said. “But that was a good play by Chan.”

Mountain Crest’s secondary made several big plays Saturday, with Mitch Jessop sealing the victory by intercepting an Orchard pass inside the 5-yard line following Smith’s heroics. The Mustangs picked off three passes, including one by Rasmussen less than five minutes into the first quarter.

Rasmussen stepped in front of a pass intended for Nate Fakahafua and took it 70 yards to paydirt, giving the Mustangs a 7-0 lead.

“We’ve been watching film. I know they go with the stick route to try and get the first (down),” Rasmussen said. “I just read it and took it to the house.”

The Mustangs struck again with 3:57 remaining in the first quarter when sophomore signal caller Alex Kuresa eluded the Highland pressure and found Alex Knowles wide open for a 19-yard TD. The Mustangs began that drive at the Ram 42, thanks to a fumble recovery by Hayden Snow — one of two the senior had on the day.

Mountain Crest’s momentum didn’t last for long, though, as Highland’s Travis Walzer returned the ensuing kickoff 88 yards to paydirt.

The Rams knotted things up at 14-apiece on a Muli Kinikini 7-yard TD run with 7:32 remaining in the second quarter. Kinikini repeatedly used his size to rough up the Mustangs, carrying the ball 16 times for a game-best 121 yards.

Highland ended up amassing 271 yards on the ground, including 84 by Orchard and 49 by Bridger Walzer. However, Highland’s running backs also coughed the ball up five times, losing three of them.

“There’s not a lot of adjustments,” Wootton said of his team’s defensive front. “All we can do is ask our kids to play hard. We’re going to get pounded on a little bit because of our size, and there’s not a lot you can do.”

On the flip side, the Rams struggled to stop the Mustangs’ passing attack, so long as Kuresa had time to throw. Kuresa was sacked five times for a combined loss of 42 yards.

However, the sophomore carved up Highland’s secondary otherwise, completing 13-of-17 passes for 173 yards and three TDs.

The Rams had an especially difficult time with MC 6-foot-4 wideout Jessop, who had 77 yards receiving. Jessop gave the hosts a 20-14 advantage just before halftime when he outjumped Orchard for a 25-yard TD. Jessop effectively used his height and athleticism a couple of times against Highland’s cornerbacks.

“Coach told me ahead of time that he didn’t think that their corners were going to be as aggressive or as tall as most corners would be,” Jessop said. “He told me to be ready for a couple of fades, so I think he was planning on it early.”

Rasmussen hauled in Kuresa’s third touchdown pass — a 25-yarder in the third quarter — as he found himself all alone behind the Ram secondary after a nice pump fake by the QB.

Highland’s third trip to the end zone was a 1-yard dive by Bridger Walzer with 4:27 remaining in the fourth. It capped off a time-consuming, 14-play drive.

“Great football team,” Rams head coach Brody Benson said of MC. “When we were driving on them, when we were being mistake free, I thought we were moving the ball well, I thought that we controlled the ball well.

“I thought that it boiled down to them causing them or us giving them away, the turnovers. You can’t win doing that.”

The Daily Herald - Week 2

• Highland 33, American Fork 15: At American Fork, The American Fork
football team could not find a way to stop the Highland running game as
the Rams racked up 449 yards on the ground to just 31 for the Cavemen.

Highland had a very speedy defense that penetrated the line and was very quick to the ball.

Jordan Lusk did throw a couple of very nice touchdown passes to Weston Frandsen for 69 yards and Jorey Hansen for 8 yards.

Deseret News - Week 2

Highland Cruises To Dominating Win Over American Fork.

By Jaclyn Olsen
For the Deseret News

AMERICAN FORK — The Highland Rams felt their way around the American Fork field through the first quarter, then plowed their way through the Cavemen for the rest of the game, finally taking home a 33-15 victory.

American Fork drew first blood on a 25-yard field goal by Nathaniel Olsen in the first quarter, but that was all it would manage until late in the fourth, after the Rams had taken complete control of the game.

Muli Kinikini crossed the goal line for Highland's first score on a 6-yard run with six seconds gone in the second, and Travis Walzer added a 3-yard run for a score with 34 seconds remaining in the first half, giving the Rams a 14-3 advantage at the half.

Just 21 seconds into the third quarter, on the first play after the kickoff, Highland quarterback Nick Orchard broke free and ran down the left sideline for a 75-yard touchdown, giving the Rams a 20-3 lead for the rest of the third quarter and heading into the fourth.

He started the fourth quarter much the same way on a 40-yard touchdown run with 11:47 remaining in the game. His team then relaxed a little after taking the 26-13 lead.

The Cavemen finally showed some life about midway through the fourth quarter as Jordan Lusk launched a 70-yard touchdown pass to Weston Frandsen for the Cavemen's first crossing of the goal line.

Another pass by Lusk, this one to Jorey Hansen for a 10-yard touchdown, gave the Cavemen a more respectable 15 points, but their two-point conversion failed for the second time in the game.

Highland finished things off with a 55-yard touchdown run by Bridger Walzer, giving Highland its final score.

The Rams and quarterback Orchard dominated through most of the contest, and when the Cavemen came up with a nice play — like a pick by Frandsen midway through the third quarter — they immediately fumbled the ball away on the next possession. The Cavemen just couldn't get anything rolling, while the Rams took advantage of Caveman miscues and kept adding to their score. Walzer capitalized on his own interception, turning that drive into a touchdown in the second quarter.

The Rams improved their record to 1-1 after last week's loss to Mountain Crest, while the Cavemen dropped to 1-1 after defeating Provo last week.

REGION: Nonregion
GAME DATE: Friday, August 29, 2008

Highland 33, American Fork 15
The Rams were led by brothers Travis and Bridger Walzer, who each rushed for a touchdown. Nick Orchard finished with 251 yards rushing, including two long TD scores.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Highland (0-0, 1-1)	0	14	6	13	-	33
American Fork (0-0, 1-1)	3	0	0	12	-	15

SCORING PLAYS
AMERICAN FORK - Olsen 25 FG
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 6 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - T. Walzer 3 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 70 run (Failed kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 40 run (Failed kick)
AMERICAN FORK - Frandsen 70 pass Lusk (Failed run)
AMERICAN FORK - Hansen 10 pass from Lusk (Failed pass)
HIGHLAND - B. Walzer 55 run (Gifford kick)

Salt Lake Tribune - Week 2

Highland 33, American Fork 15 Friday, August 29, 2008

Team W/L Record Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total Highland 1-1, 0-0 0 14 6 13 33 American Fork 1-1, 0-0 3 0 0 12 15

Scoring Summary: A — Olsen 25 FG H — Kinikini 6 run (Hicken kick) H — T. Walzer 3 run (Hicken kick) H — Orchard 70 run (kick failed) H — Orchard 40 run (kick failed) A — Frandsen 70 pass Lusk (run failed) A — Hansen 10 pass from Lusk (pass failed) H — B. Walzer 55 run (Gifford kick)

Salt Lake Tribune Article - Week 1

Mountain Crest 26, Highland 21

Interception On 2-yard Line Seals Deal

By Tracey Smith
Special to The Tribune

The No. 13 turned out to be more than lucky for the Mountain Crest Mustangs.
With 20 seconds left in the game, Highland was down five points and parked on the Mountain Crest 2-yard line when the Mustangs' No. 13, Mitch Jessop, intercepted a pass to clinch a 26-21 victory Saturday at Utah State's Romney Stadium in Logan.
Jessop admitted his play "sealed the deal," but attributed the win to "a team effort" and other plays as well. The 6-foot-4, 185-pound senior had five receptions and one touchdown on offense.
"The coach called it in the huddle," Jessop said of the TD play. "My heart got pumping."
The Mustangs toppled Highland despite minus-19 rushing yards. On the other hand, Mountain Crest passed for 158 yards compared with the Rams' 33. Three interceptions, especially Jessop's clincher, hurt Highland, overall.
The rushing deficit could have cost the Mustangs.
"We couldn't run the ball on them. We were outmanned," conceded Mountain Crest coach Mark Wootton, who referred to Highland as "strong and athletic."
A team like the Rams will "expose your weaknesses," Wootton said.
Jessop emerged following a back injury last year, but had an impressive offseason, attending Brigham Young's football camp.
"They play with tremendous determination and heart," Wootton said of his Mustangs.
"We spend a lot of time with these kids in the offseason. We have a bond between the coaches and the kids."

Highland 21, Mountain Crest 26 Saturday, August 23, 2008

Team W/L Record Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total Highland 0-0, 0-1 7 7 0 7 21 Mountain Crest 0-0, 1-0 14 6 6 0 26

Deseret News Article - Week 1

Mustangs Feast On Rams' Mistakes

By Wade Denniston

For the Deseret News

LOGAN — Mountain Crest couldn't get much going on offense against Highland.

Fortunately for the Mustangs, the defense was there to save the day.

Mountain Crest scored all of its points off six turnovers to beat the Rams 26-21 in the season opener for both teams Saturday afternoon at Utah State's Romney Stadium.

"We don't have a chance if we don't get those turnovers," Mustangs head coach Mark Wootton said. "The thing I was excited about was just the effort our kids gave. You look at Highland and they're so big and physical, and we were so outmanned sizewise, but these Mountain Crest kids, they don't ever back down."

The Rams had 305 yards of total offense — twice as much as the Mustangs — but three interceptions and three fumbles lost were too much to overcome.

"When we were driving on them, when we were being mistake-free, I thought we were moving the ball well, I thought we controlled the ball well," Highland head coach Brody Benson said. "I thought that it boiled down to (Mountain Crest) causing them or us giving them away, the turnovers. You can't win doing that."

Despite all the turnovers, the Rams still had a chance to pull out the victory in the waning moments.

A 15-yard penalty on the Mustangs' bench (third sideline warning) gave Highland a first down on Mountain Crest's 36-yard line with less than a minute remaining in the fourth quarter.

After Rams quarterback Nick Orchard was sacked by Raider Lofthouse on first down, Orchard had a pass attempt broken up by Chandler Smith inside the 5-yard line on the next play.

"I was a little nervous on that," Mountain Crest's Ethan Rasmussen said. "I thought he was gonna catch it maybe because he was behind everyone. But that was a good play by Chan."

Then on third-and-14, Mitch Jessop intercepted a pass by Orchard to secure the Mustangs' victory.

"There's no way we would have ever won if we hadn't gotten those turnovers," Jessop said. "I mean, our coaches have always said we need to force at least two turnovers a game and we gotta have one for a touchdown, so that was huge."

Mountain Crest did get one for a touchdown when Rasmussen snagged a pass intended for Highland's Nate Fakahafua and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown to give the Mustangs a 7-0 lead with 7:30 left in the first quarter.

"We've been watching film," Rasmussen said. "I just read it and took it to the house."

Mountain Crest made it 14-0 several minutes later when Alex Knowles hauled in a 19-yard touchdown pass from Alex Kuresa, who was 13-of-17 for 173 yards and three touchdowns.

The Rams sliced the deficit in half, though, when Travis Walzer returned the ensuing kickoff 88 yards for a touchdown. Highland tied it at 14-all on a 7-yard touchdown run by Muli Kinikini with 7:48 to go in the second.

Jessop hauled in a 19-yard touchdown pass from Kuresa just before halftime to give Mountain Crest a 20-14 lead.

Kinikini led the Rams with 121 yards and a touchdown on 16 carries.

REGION: Nonregion
GAME DATE: Saturday, August 23, 2008

Mountain Crest 26, Highland 21
Alex Kuresa threw three touchdown passes for the Mustangs.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Highland (0-0, 0-1)	7	7	0	7	-	21
Mountain Crest (0-0, 1-0)	14	6	6	0	-	26

SCORING PLAYS
MOUNTAIN CREST - Rasmussen 70 int. return (Knight kick)
MOUNTAIN CREST - Knowles 19 pass from Kuresa (Knight kick)
HIGHLAND - T. Walzer 88 kick return (Giffork kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 7 run (Hicken kick)
MOUNTAIN CREST - Jessop 19 pass from Kuresa (fail kick)
MOUNTAIN CREST - Rasmussen 25 pass from Kuresa (fail pass)
HIGHLAND - B. Walzer 1 run (Hicken kick)

MaxPreps 4A PreSeason Top 5

4A

Can you spell DYNASTY?

If you didn’t spell it T-I-M-P-V-I-E-W, then you made a big mistake. Timpview has won three of the last four state titles in 4A and opens the season as the unanimous pick of the 4A coaches to do it again. Head coach Louis Wong has posted a 45-4 record over those three years, including the state’s current longest winning streak (24 games).

Timpview also has three of the state’s top Division I prospects with Xavier Su’a-Filo (6-4, OL), Bronson Kaufusi (6-6, DE, Jr.) and Craig Bills (6-2, DB) leading the Birds’ quest for a state three-peat.

Coming in at the No. 2 spot in the 4A preseason poll are the Colts of Cottonwood and the state’s most highly-recruited player this year, senior offensive lineman John Martinez (6-3, 265). Martinez has a pile of offers from universities across the country and already – Notre Dame, BYU, Utah, LSU, Ohio State, USC and UCLA among them.

State 4A runner-up in 2007, Pine View High School of St. George, is tabbed at No. 3 in the first poll, followed closely by the Mountain Crest Mustangs and Highland Rams in rounding out the top five.

MaxPreps Pre-Season Utah All State Team

MaxPreps Preseason All-State Team

WR - Robert Evans, Pine View
WR - Travis Van Leeuwen, Timpview
WR - Taylor Orr, Pine View
TE - Richard Wilson, Spanish Fork
OL - Vyncent Jones, Jordan
OL - Tui Crighton, Timpview
OL - John Martinez, Cottonwood
OL - Xavier Su'a-Filo, Timpview
OL - Ryan Butler, Hurricane
QB - Jeff Manning, Logan
QB - Steve Romero, Cottonwood
RB - LaVaughn Jackson, Layton
RB - Isi Sofele, Cottonwood
RB - Adam Timo, Snow Canyon
Ath - Bruce Garlinghouse, Judge
K - Josue Meza, Pleasant Grove



DL - Latu Heimuli, Highland
DL - Bronson Kaufusi, Timpview
DL - Tevita Kinikini, Highland
DL - Marcel Bourque, Union
LB - Jordan Ballam, Logan
LB - Colby Richins, North Summit
LB – L.T. Filiaga, Bingham
LB - Ethan Lofthouse, Mountain Crest
LB - Sam Nielson, Highland
DB - Craig Bills, Timpview
DB - Justin Ence, Pine View
DB - Keenyn Walker, Judge
DB - Kaden Richard, Union
P - LeSean Wilcox, Pleasant Grove

Deseret News Pre-Season Top 25

1. Alta Hawks (13-1) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The defending 5A champs should be loaded once again despite the
graduation of virtually all of its starters from a year ago.
Quarterback Ammon Olsen has the potential to be a very special player
for the Hawks. 2008 opener: vs. Spanish Fork, Friday.

2. Bingham Miners (11-2) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The Miners are absolutely loaded and probably the most talented and
experienced team in the state. With returning starters on defense like
L.T. Filiaga and Remington Peck, It should be another dominant year for
coach Dave Peck's team. 2008 opener: vs. Skyline, Friday.

3. Timpview T-Birds (13-0) Class: 4A

Outlook:
This program has won 24 straight games and two straight state titles.
With countless returning starters this year, that winning streak could
reach 37 by November. 2008 opener: at Pleasant Grove, Friday.

4. Layton Lancers (12-2) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The Lancers were the surprise team of 2007, but they won't sneak up on
anyone this year with players like LaVaughn Jackson and Karl Williams.
Some Region 1 coaches think Layton is going to be even better this
year. 2008 opener: at Bonneville, Friday.

5. Cottonwood Colts (10-2) Class: 4A

Outlook:
The talent is definitely there, now the Colts just have to put it all
together and work as a team to have any hope of competing with Timpview
in November. 2008 opener: vs. Clearfield, Friday.

6. Jordan Beetdiggers (7-4) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The 'Diggers preseason schedule is ridiculously tough with games
against Northridge, Massillon, Ohio, Layton, Bingham and Riverton.
Hopefully they have some juice left in the tank for region play. 2008 opener: vs. Northridge, Friday.

7. Pine View Panthers (13-1) Class: 4A

Outlook:
In its first year in 4A last year Pine View surprised some people by
advancing to the state championship game. It was promptly humbled by
Timpview, but the Panthers are back and just as talented to make a
similar run this year. 2008 opener: at Mountain View, Friday.

8. Northridge Knights (8-3) Class: 5A

Outlook:
Layton ran away with the Region 1 title last year, but this year the
Knights are good enough to give its cross-town rivals a run for the
region title. 2008 opener: at Jordan, Friday.

9. Mtn. Crest Mustangs (7-5) Class: 4A

Outlook:
There's a buzz up in Hyrum about these Mustangs after last year's
extremely young team made it all the way to the semifinals. With a
loaded 4A field, duplicating that task won't be easy. 2008 opener: vs. Highland, Friday.

10. Pleasant Grove Vikings (7-4) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The Vikings are projected to win Region 4 this year, and with a strong
defense perhaps make some noise in the 5A playoffs as well. 2008 opener: vs. Timpview, Friday.

11. Highland Rams (8-3) Class: 4A

Outlook:
The Rams are an eager team after losing to Bonneville in last year's
first round. With Latu Heimuli and Muli Kinikini anchoring the
defensive line, opponents will have a hard time running the ball on the
Rams. 2008 opener: at Mountain Crest, Friday.

12. Bountiful Braves (9-3) Class: 4A

Outlook:
With 13 returning starters the Braves should be very good this year.
Don't be surprised to see them back at Rice-Eccles Stadium in November.
2008 opener: vs. Lone Peak, Friday.

13. Logan Grizzlies (12-2) Class: 3A

Outlook:
The defending 3A champs return oodles of experience and have put
together a pretty impressive preseason schedule to prepare for region
and the playoffs. 2008 opener: at Murray, Friday.

14. Sky View Bobcats (10-3) Class: 4A

Outlook: Coach Craig Anhder has taken this program to new
heights, and you can bet the players are anxious to redeem themselves
after last year's 31-point semifinal loss to Pine View. 2008 opener: vs. Fremont at Utah State, Friday.

15. Skyline Eagles (7-5) Class: 5A

Outlook: This program isn't what it used to be, but it might surprise some teams this year. 2008 opener: at Bingham, Friday.

16. East Leopards (8-3) Class: 4A

Outlook: New coach Larry Eldracher is inheriting a great program, but does he have what it takes to push the Leopards over the top? 2008 opener: vs. Snow Canyon, Friday.

17. Am. Fork Cavemen (9-4) Class: 5A

Outlook: The Cavemen graduated 18 starters from last season, therefore duplicating last year's semifinal run will be a tough task. 2008 opener: vs. Provo, Friday.

18. Riverton Silverwolves (6-5) Class: 5A

Outlook: With 17 returning starters, there's optimism that this is the year Riverton finally takes the next step into 5A competitor. 2008 opener: vs. Timpanogos, Friday.

19. Davis Darts (7-5) Class: 5A

Outlook:
The Darts will count on a sophomore quarterback this season, which
won't be easy in perhaps the best region in the state from top to
bottom. 2008 opener: at Hunter, Friday.

20. Judge Bulldogs (10-3) Class: 3A

Outlook: The Bulldogs came up one game short last year, but the talent is there to take the next step in 3A this year. 2008 opener: vs. North Sanpete, Friday.

21. Viewmont Vikings (6-5) Class: 5A

Outlook:
With an extremely talented group on the offensive and defensive lines,
the potential is there for the Vikings to make some noise this year. 2008 opener: at Orem, Friday.

22. Hunter Wolverines (4-8) Class: 5A

Outlook: New coach Dustin Pearce hopes to bring back the winning mentality to Hunter's usually solid program. 2008 opener: vs. Davis, Friday.

23. Mtn. View Bruins (7-4) Class: 4A

Outlook: The Bruins have the talent to take the next step and perhaps compete for a spot in the 4A semifinals down the road. 2008 opener: vs. Pine View, Friday.

24. Bonneville Lakers (5-6) Class: 4A

Outlook:
Last year's surprising run into the quarterfinals was evidenced that
third-year coach Matt Williams has this program headed in the right
direction. 2008 opener: vs. Layton, Friday.

25. Fremont Silver Wolves (7-5) Class: 5A

Outlook: New coach Kory Bosgieter is hoping to balance things out offensively for the previously pass-happy 'Wolves. 2008 opener: vs. Jordan, Friday.

Deseret News PreSeason All State Team

Muli has been selected to the Deseret News PreSeason All State Football Team. The article explains the way the players were selected to the team, so I will not delve into it here, but Muli was selected as a PreSeason All State Defensive Lineman.
Hopefully he will have a great season, and do justice to his selection.
Here is the article:

2008 DESERET NEWS PRESEASON ALL-STATE In anticipation of the upcoming
2008 high school football season, the Deseret News is pleased to
announce its inaugural preseason all-state football team.

This team is a statewide team without regard to classification and is based on coaches votes.

The Deseret News invited every coach in the state to participate in our
preseason all-state voting by asking them to select who they believed
were the top 12 players in the state. Those votes were tabulated and a
24-man team was put together consistening of 12 offensive players and
12 defensive players.

In addition to one player at each traditional offensive and defensive
position, one extra offensive and defensive player were added as
specialists.

High school football: 2008 Deseret News preseason All-State

Jeff Manning, QB, Logan, 6-4, 180, Sr.

Adam Timo, RB, Snow Canyon, 6-2, 190, Sr.

LaVaughn Jackson, RB, Layton, 5-10, 190, Sr.

Robert Evans, WR, Pine View, 6-2, 185, Sr.

Chris Washington, WR, Northridge, 6-2, 195, Sr.

Richard Wilson, TE, Spanish Fork, 6-3, 225, Sr.

Tuni Kanuch, OL, Bingham, 6-1, 265, Sr.

John Martinez, OL, Cottonwood, 6-3, 265, Sr.

Vyncent Jones, OL, Jordan, 6-4, 285, Sr.

Xavier Su'a-Filo, OL, Timpview, 6-4, 270, Sr.

Parker Erickson, OL, Alta, 6-2, 270, Sr.

Isi Sofele, SPEC., Cottonwood, 5-8, 165, Sr.

Latu Heimuli, DL, Highland, 6-4, 300, Sr.

Bronson Kaufusi, DE, Timpview, 6-6, 220, Jr.

Remington Peck, DL, Bingham, 6-5, 210, Sr.

Muli Kinikini, DL, Highland, 5-11, 215, Sr.

LT Filiaga, LB, Bingham, 6-1, 230, Sr.

Peni Maka'afi, LB, Northridge, 5-11, 220, Sr.

Jordan Ballam, LB, Logan, 5-9, 165, Sr.

Craig Bills, DB, Timpview, 6-2, 205, Sr.

Keenyn Walker, DB, Judge, 6-0, 175, Sr.

Justin Ence, DB, Pine View, 6-0, 190, Sr.

LeSean Wilcox, DB, Pleasant Grove, 5-10, 180, Sr.

Tony Epperson, SPEC., Park City, 6-4, 210, Sr.

Deseret News Region 6 Predictions

Here is what the Deseret News thinks is going to happen in Region 6, based on preseason coaches voting:

1. Cottonwood

2. Highland: The Rams look as tough as ever after an uncharacteristic first-round
loss to Bonneville in 2007. Defense, long a team calling card, should
be strong again. Three-year starter Latu Heimuli is a force on the
line. He led the team in tackles and tackles for loss a year ago and
has been highly sought after by several Division I schools — led by
Colorado, Arizona and Nebraska. Sam Nielson will be counted on to
provide stability as the team's center and its middle linebacker.
Bridger Walzer is a ferocious hitter at outside linebacker, and Travis
Walzer should do good things in the secondary. On offense, Highland is
counting on the one-two punch of Nick Orchard and Muli Kinikini to move
them down field. Orchard has high expectations stepping into the
quarterback position and Kinikini is an explosive runner who can add
teeth to the Rams' option attack. 2007 RECORD: 8-3. PLAYOFFS: Lost in the first round.

3. East

4. Cyprus

5. West (Tie)

5. Olympus (Tie)

7. Granger

8. Murray

Salt Lake Tribune - HHS Rams 2008 Preview

Two-a-days: Highland Rams

Team: Highland
Date: July 15
Site: Highland football field

IN THE TRENCHES
Coach Brody Benson is in his third year at the helm of one of Region 6's powerhouse football programs. In Benson's freshman and sophomore campaigns, the Rams won the Region 6 title.

Well, technically.

Highland shared the region crown in both of the last two seasons. This year, Benson and the Rams hope to win it outright. Winning region would go a long way toward rinsing out the sour taste in the Rams' mouths. Last year's postseason did not go according to plan. After entering the state tournament as the top seed (8-3 at the time), Highland committed a mistake that is all too prevalent among No. 1 seeds.

The Rams overlooked their first-round opponent.

''We played very, very poorly and Bonneville played very well and they stuck it to us pretty good,'' Benson.

The Rams saw their dream of playing on the turf at Rice-Eccles Stadium vanish for a whole year. But they didn't sulk for long.

"We got beat the 26th of October,'' Benson said. ''The kids were back the next Monday lifting. They didn't like losing that early.''

In Benson's first season, the Rams made it all the way to the state championship game, where they ran smack-dab into Timpview. Highland lost that game.

Benson won't need to look far for inspiring pre-game pep talks. The last two years have given the team plenty of reasons to want to redeem themselves.

ON OFFENSE
As a cornerback, Nick Orchard has been causing headaches for quarterbacks and receivers for the past couple of years. Now, as a senior, he's switching roles. Slated as the Rams' starting QB for 2008, Orchard will command Highland's option offense.

Orchard didn't see much action under center last year, playing mostly garbage minutes, but Benson thinks the senior is up to the challenge.

''He worked his butt of in the off-season,'' Benson said, adding that Orchard added 10 pounds to his physique. ''He's a physical kid and doesn't shy away from contact.''

Benson noted that Orchard, who used to be quiet and reserved, has developed into a leader. Junior backup QB Mason Keller will put pressure on Orchard to stay on top of his game throughout the season.

Tevita Kinikini, fullback and defensive end, returns after garnering the Region 6 Offensive Player of the Year honor last year. He'll be integral in an attack built around the quarterback and fullback.

Though the Rams play the option, it doesn't hurt to have a strong receiving corps to keep the opponent honest. One of Highland's best receivers is Nate Fakahafua, who is 6-foot-6/185 pounds.

''He's the type of kid you can throw the ball up to. He'll go up and fight for it,'' Mason said.

The Rams also have Zach Baucom and Jordan Crayton, who are both reliable receivers.

ON DEFENSE
Benson believes Highland's offense will be better than it was last year but he's most excited about the team's defense.

''I think our defense is going to open some eyes,'' Benson said. ''A lot of kids love to fly around.''

The best player on the team is defensive lineman Latu Heimuli, who Benson calls ''bar-none, hands-down, the best defensive lineman in the state.'' More on him in a minute.

Sam Nielsen will lead the defense from the middle linebacker spot. Peter Ferrin, who led Highland in sacks last year as a sophomore, is also back. Defensive guard Ono Tafisi, at 6-foot-3, 320 pounds, will also cause problems at the line of scrimmage.

Two-way starting twins Travis and Bridger Walzer should have an impact.

THE VETERAN
Benson has all the praise in the world for the aforementioned ''bar-none, hands-down'' best D-lineman in the state, Heimuli. The senior (6-foot-4, 300 pounds) is a workhorse. A big man who plays both sides of the ball, Heimuli has received offers from an array of Pac-10 schools, as well as Florida, Nebraska, Colorado and local universities.

Benson believes Heimuli will be playing on Sundays someday because of his determination.

''A lot of big kids rely on size and athleticism, and they coast,'' Benson said.

Not Heimuli.

He's started at offensive guard and defensive tackle since 10th grade.

One of seven returning starters on both sides of the ball, ''he's my most experienced,'' Benson said.

THE NEW GUY
Jordan Crayton isn't really a ''new guy,'' per se. He's actually a senior. But Benson believes Crayton is the most exciting newcomer on the team even if he hasn't played football since seventh grade.

So, where has Crayton been all this time?

On the basketball court.

Though he's not especially tall like fellow receiver Fakaful (6-foot-6), Crayton (6-foot-2) has ''clean, crisp hands.''

''He's going to see a lot of time,'' Benson said.

Another key newcomer is Fakahafua, who played minutes as a freshman but will have a much larger impact as a sophomore. Benson reminisced, with a smile, that Fakahafua caught the game-winning touchdown in the final seconds over West last season.

WHAT TO EXPECT
With seven returning starters back from a team that went 8-3 and shared the Region 6 title, the Rams are set for another title chase. But, Benson noted, Region 6 teams must have a very special year if they want even a share of the championship. To win region outright, Benson believes the Rams will have to run the table.

Benson's sees Highland's major competitors as East, Cottonwood, West and Cyprus.

It's not exactly smooth sailing for Highland, though.

There's a pretty big question mark looming around this team. It's the sometimes forgotten position in football: the kicker.

The only two kickers (so far) on the team are a sophomore and freshman -- neither of which has ever kicked in a game.

Neither has secured the starting job.

How concerned is Benson?

''Right now, real concerned,'' said Benson, who is crossing his fingers that the kicking mystery will be solved when the season kicks off in August.

-- Natalie Dicou

Deseret News - HHS Rams 2008 Preview

After stringing together back-to-back 4A title game appearances, Highland never expected to fall victim to a first-round playoff upset.

But, like many of their counterparts in Region 6, the Rams could not advance past their opening game and fell 21-6 to Bonneville. It did not take Highland long before it began looking to this season as a time of redemption.

"That next Monday, we started counting down the days to our first game," senior Latu Heimuli said. "We were all just getting ready. We didn't want to wait."

When Highland does take the field in its opener against Mountain Crest, the Rams will present a team that is focused on being a factor in the 4A championship picture again. What's scary for the teams they will face — especially in Region 6 — is that this is a group that has more than enough talent to make it happen.

Highland returns several starters on its offensive and defensive lines. Leading the way is Heimuli — a highly recruited Division I prospect — and Sam Nielson. Heimuli is a beast on defense in particular, with 50 tackles, including 10 for loss, in 2007. That degree of experience up front should help new quarterback Nick Orchard adjust to running the Ram scheme real quickly.

Orchard is a little raw on offense, but started at cornerback all of last season. Highland coach Brody Benson thinks that game time experience on defense will help him anticipate and react to defenses with little difficulty.

The Rams' top rusher, Muli Kinikini, should provide plenty of help for Orchard. Kinikini rushed for a team-high 872 yards and eight touchdowns on 115 carries a year ago. Travis Walzer and Bridger Walzer should provide some solid additional depth in the backfield.

"I see our offense right now as being better than last year — right when we start the season — because of that experience factor," Benson said.

Experience should serve Highland well in navigating a tough early schedule. Besides their traditional endowment game matchup with the Mustangs, the Rams also face American Fork and Skyline before opening region play at East.

Such a slate doesn't allow for much breathing room, but Benson feels confident his kids can compete with anybody — provided they don't succumb to injuries first.

"I think that it basically boils down to staying healthy," Benson said. "You look out here and we don't have a whole lot of numbers — as far as players on the team. But I'll put my starting eleven up against anybody else's in the region."

Whatever comes about this season for the Rams, they want to make sure it will not be feeling the sting of another postseason disappointment.

"We don't want the same thing to happen as last year — going out in the first round," Orchard said. "That's a lot of motivation right there — to get further into the playoffs and hope we get to Rice-Eccles (Stadium)."

HIGHLAND RAMS 2008 SEASON PREVIEW

COACH: Brody Benson may not have the numbers or depth, but he makes the most with what he has. Benson has 19-6 record over the past two seasons, which included a 4A title game appearance in his debut year.

KEY PLAYERS: Highland should be plenty tough up front with Latu Heimuli (OL/DL) and Sam Nielson (C/MLB) leading the way. Muli Kinikni (FB/DE) is explosive enough to give defenses fits. Travis Walzer (RB/SS) and Bridger Walzer (FB/OLB) will serve as backfield and defensive anchors. Nick Orchard (QB/DB) could be poised for a breakout season behind center.

QUESTION MARK: With several returning starters who went both ways last year, there aren't too many unknowns for Highland. The biggest concern might be surviving a tough first four games. Can the Rams stay healthy and confident enough to stave off a slow start?

LAST YEAR: 8-3, lost in 4A First Round

PREDICTED REGION 6 FINISH: Second.

POSTSEASON POSSIBILITIES: Last year's first-round loss was a fluke in many ways and Highland will prove as much if it stays healthy going into the playoffs. With their experience on the line and in the backfield, Highland could make a title game push for the third time in four seasons.

2008 SCHEDULE

Aug 23 — at Mountain Crest (at Utah State University), 12 p.m.

Aug 29 — at American Fork, 7 p.m.

Sept 5 — SKYLINE, 7 p.m.

Sept 12 — at East, 6:30 p.m.

Sept 19 — GRANGER, 7 p.m.

Sept 26 — at Olympus, 7 p.m.

Oct 3 — COTTONWOOD, 7 p.m.

Oct 10 — at Cyprus, 7 p.m.

Oct 15 — WEST, 7 p.m.

Oct 23 — MURRAY, 7 p.m.