This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Richfield Wildcats

The Hurry-up — Richfield finished 2-8 in 2015, and 0-5 in league play. The Wildcats did not make the state playoffs.

Richfield likes the direction it's heading in. The turnover hasn't hit them too hard, and the program is welcoming back a number of contributors from last season. Coach Eric Thorson said he isn't expecting a breakout season by any means, but he's optimistic that in these next few years, the Wildcats will take some notable steps forward — this being another rebuilding year.

"Inside the program, there wasn't frustration, there wasn't turmoil … I would still consider this a rebuilding year again," Thorson said. "Sometimes when you get those holes, they can go more than one year."

Quarterbacks — When you speak to Emmitt Hafen, it isn't apparent he's just a sophomore, according to Thorson. Good enough to see reps at the varsity level as a freshman — which was cut short because of a "freak incident" — Hafen is a prospect the program believes in and will be patient with. It's fitting because Hafen's roster will be looking to grow and mature, too.

Running backs — Evan Jerome was expected to be the quarterback last season, but plans changed. Now, as a senior who stepped up as a key contributor in the new role last season, Jerome has been preparing to embrace his role at running back. Thorson plans on leaning on Jerome in his final season.

Receivers — Even if Jerome continues to get reps as a receiver, too, there will be some holes to fill on the receiving corps. The numbers don't point to significant damage control despite losing five listed seniors, but this group will have to figure out how to replace last year's leading receiver Jensen Magleby.

Offensive linemen — The line appears to be in good hands as senior Wyatt Peterson — who Thorson calls "Old Faithful" — returns for his senior season. But with a young quarterback to protect, there will be a lot of work to do for this group. The priority, though, will be creating holes for Jerome, who should be the workhorse on offense.

Defensive linemen — Similar to the offensive line, Peterson will help anchor this side of the ball and provide stability. After losing a number of seniors who racked up most of the tackling totals last season, Peterson and Co. will have plenty of room to grow into as new leaders.

Linebackers — Finding a way to fill the void left by Austin Biggs is the story in 2016. Carrying the heavy load at this position, players like Jerome — who is also listed as a middle linebacker — will need to step up. Judging by the numbers and potential projections, this will be a group to look out for as it files in a new rotation.

Defensive backs — Interceptions weren't a selling point for this program last season, and among the seven it had, five of them were recorded by outgoing seniors. Takeaways aren't always the telltale sign of a good secondary, but, nonetheless, it's going to be an area that needs to be addressed.

Key Players

Evan Jerome, RB — Will be the foundation for what Richfield does on both sides of the ball, assuming he also continues to see time on defense. Thorson has high expectations for his senior back and judging by what he's done so far, Jerome appears to be en route to a notable farewell season.

Emmitt Hafen, QB — It's not usually a good sign when a sophomore is starting at quarterback, but in the case of Hafen, it may not be the point. Already gaining trust from the coaching staff and the team, Hafen has the rare luxury of having time to figure it out while producing. Like Thorson said, 2016 will be another rebuilding year, and for Hafen, that should be music to his ears.

Wyatt Peterson, G/DE — He isn't called "Old Faithful" for nothing. The obvious rock on both lines, Peterson should provide a level of reliability as this program figures out its approach this season with players looking to take leaps with another year under their belts.

Key Losses

Jensen Magleby, WR — The leading receiver racked up nearly 600 yards receiving and caught six touchdowns in 2015.

Austin Biggs, G/OLB — Led the defense with 77 total tackles — 47 solo — in 2015.

Matt Griffin, WR — While listed as a wide receiver, the senior threw for a team-high 618 passing yards and five touchdowns in 2015.

Name To Know: It sounds like Evan Jerome will be on the field frequently, and with the sheer number of reps he'll get, Jerome should fill up the stat sheets on both sides of the field. As long as he can sustain his health and energy, the senior should play a huge role.

2016 Schedule

Aug. 19 — BEN LOMOND, 7 p.m. (Lost, 50-14, in 2015)

Aug. 24 — at Wayne, 7 p.m.

Aug. 26 — at South Sevier, 7 p.m. (Won, 14-7)

Sept. 2 — SAN JUAN, 7 p.m. (Lost, 51-7)

Sept. 9 — at Union, 7 p.m. (Lost, 41-18)

Sept. 16 — JUAB, 7 p.m. (Lost, 43-6)

Sept. 23 — at Canyon View, 7 p.m. (Lost, 62-27)

Sept. 30 — at North Sanpete, 7 p.m. (Lost, 50-0)

Oct. 7 — MANTI, 7 p.m. (Lost, 35-0)

Oct. 14 — at Delta, 7 p.m. (Lost, 36-8)

Oct. 19 — CARBON, 7 p.m. (Won, 28-14)

Verdict: Thorson has realistic expectations for his program in 2016, and it isn't necessarily going to be about the wins and loss columns; it's going to be about building the foundation to have a successful team in a few years. That doesn't mean Richfield isn't going to improve upon last year — after going winless in league play — especially with good talent like Jerome. But, ultimately, it's going to be another year of building toward the future.

Projected finish in region: Sixth