This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

One of the many wonderful things about sports is the opportunity to experience the joys of fandom, to be involved in something much bigger than yourself, cheering for your team to emerge victorious. So when Lone Peak junior running back Jackson McChesney's first collegiate offer came from BYU — his favorite program — he didn't need to think about the decision long.

He was already a Cougar in his mind, so he pledged to officially become one in the future.

"Well I've always been the biggest fan of BYU, and I felt now is the time to commit because I feel like we've got an opportunity to have a special season," McChesney said.

McChesney is rated as a three-star prospect by 247Sports. He rushed for 250 yards and three touchdowns on 35 carries and caught 26 balls for 284 yards and four touchdowns as a sophomore last season.

"I can pretty much play any position my coach wants me to play," McChesney said when asked to describe the style of his game. "I'm just happy to be here."

McChesney helped guide Lone Peak to an impressive 31-0 win against Bountiful on opening night. The No. 10-ranked Knights will play at third-ranked Timpview on Friday at 7 p.m.

"They're a really good team," McChesney said of Timpview. "We have to play our best to beat them, but I feel like we can."

— Trevor Phibbs

Twitter: @trevorphibbs