That could be the Knights memo to fellow Region 1 schools describing their first-year starting quarterback, Junior Cole. A relative unknown before the season, Cole already has made an imprint on a team that believes it will be top dog in Region 1.
Through three nonregion games, the senior is completing over 63 percent of his passes for nearly 800 yards and six touchdowns. A double threat, he's also rushed for four scores as well.
"What I like about Junior is his poise," running back Peni Maka'afi said. "He's business as usual on the field. He'll take charge in the huddle and will see and fix things that are going wrong."
Maka'afi also adds that Cole is confident. Not brash or cocky, just assured of himself and in his abilities behind center. That's something Cole could've told you in 2007. A backup to solid quarterback Braden Mitchell, Cole believes he had the talent to be starting last year.
That's when the chip on his shoulder began.
So, the competitive athlete took his frustration out on junior varsity opponents, gaining experience that's benefiting him this year. As if Cole's chip wasn't big enough heading into this season, irritation set in when the proven quarterback needed to fend off unproven quarterbacks during training camp.
If you need an honest answer to anything, then Cole is your go-to person. Brutally honest, Cole says he doesn't understand why there was even a question on who should've been the starter, saying he understands the spread offense better than anyone. And he's a bigger threat to run than his counterpart.
Coles says he more than justified coach Erik Thompson's decision in the Knights' season opening win against Jordan. Having a talented supporting cast has only helped Coles' efforts.
Along with Maka'afi, Blake Smithing, and heavily coveted receiver/safety Chris Washington, the Knights are loaded offensively. The only area of concern is defense. And Cole won't sugarcoat their shortcomings.
"Our defense might be a work in progress," he said. "But the guys over there are real smart. They watch a lot of film. They'll come together."
Cole and Co. will be tested in tonight's Region 1 opener at Weber. The Warriors are allowing just 12 points per contest.
Davis Darts
The Darts welcomed Kamehameha, Hawaii, for a showdown at Weber State University last week. Although it was a nonregion game, the Darts can take away many things after coming up short 13-6 to their friends from the west.
"We didn't score when we needed to," sophomore Gavin Fowler said.
Indeed.
Davis had numerous opportunities in the red zone. One in particular came in the second half. Trailing 7-6, Davis bypassed a reasonable field goal opportunity on fourth down to try to keep their drive going with a first down. It didn't work.
It's a safe bet if it was a meaningful game, the Darts would go for three points at every opportunity.
Another issue was the offensive line. Fowler was running for his life after the first quarter due to Kamehameha's pressure up front. It wasn't all for not, the young quarterback gained valuable experience to prepare him for a difficult region schedule that starts tonight against Clearfield.
BIG NUMBER: 45
The number of rushes Bountiful used to torment rival Viewmont last week. Mitch Johnson and Mike Fabrizio combined for 34 carries and 151 yards.
TOP PERFORMER: Ryan Workman, Viewmont
The Viewmont senior quarterback played with a valiant effort against Bountiful. Through the air, Workman stretched the Braves defense, going 16-for-29, 254 yards and one touchdown. On the ground, just as effective, 21 carries, 94 yards, and one touchdown. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough as the Vikings dropped a close one to their crosstown rival, 17-14.
BIG GAME: Syracuse at Viewmont,
7 p.m.
The 3-0 Titans are one of the surprise teams thus far. Although they've been able to produce points, it's their defense grabbing attention. Led by linebacker K.J. Medina, Syracuse leads 5A in points allowed at 4.0. But they'll have their hands full trying to contain the versatility of Viewmont quarterback Ryan Workman. Look for Viewmont not to be in a giving mood after last week's bitter defeat to Bountiful. Syracuse's best chance will be to take away Workman's biggest target, running back Anthony Tuli, who is dangerous rushing and catching passes.


