This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2014, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
EDITOR'S NOTE • This is one in a series of previews of Utah's high school football programs. They will run throughout the summer leading up to the 2014 regular season, which begins Aug. 21.
Rich Rebels
Coach Ashley Brown knows the key to a good season starts in the weight room.
After the Rich Rebels fell short last year in the 1A state championship to Duchesne, 14-13, Brown likes that the seniors are taking the lead in getting ready for another championship run.
Offensive linemen Riley Smith and Porter Argyle will be anchoring the line for the Rebels. With the quarterback position up for grabs, Brown likes what Riley Smith and Porter Argyle can provide in terms of protection.
"They can do it both. Riley and Porter do a good job of run- and pass-blocking," Brown said. "They can open up the game by giving the quarterback more time to make the play."
Running backs Joseph Leifson and Cash Sabey will be splitting time in the backfield. Brown describes Sabey as a true power runner with Leifson able to make moves on the perimeter.
"Cash is much more a north-south runner while Joseph is able to elude guys," Brown said. "Joseph is a really shifty runner."
Keeping his players healthy is the number one priority this season. Brown said he likes the focus of the returning players and knows they'll be ready for a rematch when they host Duchesne on Oct. 10.
"Duchesne is the one game the boys will have circled on the calendar," Brown said. "They'll be working hard to beat that undefeated team. I know our kids are excited to play them."
Last year • 9-3 (lost in 1A championship game)
Key returners • Linemen Riley Smith and Porter Argyle are expected to be the anchors for the Rebels. Able to block both the run and pass, Smith and Argyle will be the foundation of Rich's offense.
Players to watch • Running backs Cash Sabey and Joseph Leifson are the opposites sides of a coin. Sabey is a powerful north-south runner while Leifson can make plays in the open field.
Biggest hole • Rich's passing game needs to step up. Coach Ashley Brown expects more protection on the line to get the ball out faster and with better accuracy.
Need to know • The Rebels are road warriors. With only three home games, Brown expects his team to travel well and perform. Keeping them healthy and focused will be a priority this year.