Tevita Kinikini - Highland High Rams #3

HIATUS

2010-02-18T11:32:00.000-07:00

THIS BLOG IS ON HIATUS UNTIL MULI RETURNS FROM A 2 YEAR LDS MISSION.

Deseret News Blurb On Mools

2009-08-11T21:52:00.003-06:00

The other day Mools told me that he was goona miss HS ball, and wondered about the differences between HS and College ball, I told him it would be much of the same, and that it would all come down to his preparation, both on and off the field.
The following is the Des News preview of the Rams, which includes a little blurb on Mools:

High school football: Highland Rams 2009 preview

By John Coon

Deseret News

Published: Monday, Aug. 10, 2009 10:46 p.m. MDT

An unusual thing happened to Highland en route to reaching the 4A quarterfinals last season. For the first time in several years, the Rams did not claim a region title. It left an empty feeling to an otherwise solid year for the team.

It also left those players coming back this fall feeling hungry to not let things play out the same way twice.

"We're looking at a region title and we're getting back up to the turf," senior quarterback Mason Keller said. "We worked all winter for this. Everybody has put on pounds. Everybody has picked up speed. So the expectations are high, definitely."

The good news for Highland is it has enough of the right tools to transform those lofty goals into reality.

Things look particularly promising in the backfield where the Rams possess enough depth, athleticism and experience to make their triple option offense run as smoothly as a finely tuned engine.

Lead fullback Muli Kinikini is gone, but Highland has other experienced runners back. Chris Lloyd started last season at halfback and Alex Olsen also saw time at that position. The Rams also have seen Sione Fainu climb the depth chart to become the no. 1 fullback going into the season.

Fainu, who mostly played at linebacker as a junior, was third-string until injuries to players ahead of him gave him a shot to show what he could do. In a short time, Fainu wowed coaches with his speed and work ethic. Now he is firmly entrenched as a starter.

"It's created some depth, but what it has also done is it's shown those guys that at any point you can step up and be the guy," Highland coach Brody Benson said.

Another key player on offense will be Keller. Expectations are high for senior quarterback who served as an understudy to Nick Orchard a year ago. Orchard led the '08 team by accumulating more than 2,000 yards on the ground and through the air. Keller knows he has big cleats to fill. But he also understands the offense well enough to pick up right where Orchard left off.

"I've been here for so long it's starting to come to me pretty easy now," Keller said. "I've picked it up pretty quick. I know what I'm doing out here, so I feel pretty confident."

Highland lost some talented linemen — most notably Latu Heimuli and Sam Nielson — on both sides of the ball. It is not a huge concern though, because Benson is convinced this group has greater depth than any team he has coached. Pete Ferrin and Ono Tafisi are both returning starters up front. George Heimuli, Julio Hernandez, Jonny Drage and Fihi Kafusi offer additional depth in the trenches. Benson has enough players to draw from up there that he can afford to rotate linemen in and out more often in games this season.

Ferrin and Kafusi will help power a defense returning several contributors from an '08 unit that surrendered just 12.4 points per game and allowed only 10 points per game in the 4A playoffs. Both Olsen and Fainu contributed significantly at linebacker a year ago. Lloyd started at cornerback and is joined by Keller, Andre Coleman, and Nate Fakahafua — also a key wide receiver in '08 — in the secondary. Returning loads of experience has the Rams believing they can match or exceed last season's defensive output.

"Our defense should be our strong point this year," Olsen said. "We return a lot of starters and we always like to focus on defense. That's what we're proud of here."

If everything on paper translates well on the field, Highland could be back where it is accustomed to being — atop its region and in contention for a state title. And that's the path the Rams plan to follow — starting in the season opener with Mountain Crest.

"Our no. 1 goal right now is to go out and win that first game and get off on the right foot," Benson said.

Highland Rams at a glance:

Coach: Brody Benson is entering his 4th season with the Rams and has compiled a 27-10 record overall.

Key Players: Highland is loaded in the backfield. Chris Lloyd is a returning starter and Sione Fainu worked his way up from third-string to starter at fullback. Mason Keller takes over at quarterback. Pete Ferrin and Ono Tafisi are returning starters on the offensive line. Most see time on defense too where Alex Olsen and Fihi Kafusi will be key contributors.

Strengths: In a word: depth. The Rams' option offense will be in great shape with the amount of running backs at Benson's disposal. Defensively, Highland returns several starters on the line, linebackers and the secondary. Given the strength of the unit a year ago, it is a safe bet the Rams could be tough for offenses to deal with once again.

Weaknesses: Highland must find a way to produce points more consistently. Once teams figured out their option offense in the playoffs, the Rams could not put up enough points. They tallied 19 total points against Bountiful and Pine View. That has to improve if they hope to go further this season.

Predicted Region 6 Finish: Second.

Postseason Possibilities: Highland is hungry to reclaim the region title after missing out on it last year. The Rams have the talent to do it and the determination to make it happen. Don't be surprised if Highland reaches the 4A semifinals when all is said and done.

2009 Schedule:

Aug. 21 – MOUNTAIN CREST, 7 p.m.

Aug. 28 – HUNTER, 7 p.m.

Sept. 4 – at Skyline, 7 p.m.

Sept. 11 – at Highland, Idaho, 7 p.m.

Sept. 18 – TOOELE, 7 p.m.

Sept. 25 – at Stansbury, 7 p.m.

Sept. 30 – OLYMPUS, 7 p.m.

Oct. 9 – at Bountiful, 7 p.m.

Oct. 16 – WOODS CROSS, 7 p.m.

Oct. 22 – at East, 7 p.m.

Post High School Write-Up

2009-07-27T17:16:00.001-06:00

Here is a pre-season write-up on the Highland High Rams 2009 Team, which contains a little blurb about Muli:

Prep football: Highland is seeking a disciplined approach

Coaches are working to get new and old starters on both sides of the ball to gel.

By Ronnie Turner

The Salt Lake Tribune

Updated: 07/22/2009 11:13:17 AM MDT

The Highland football coaching staff searched for disciplined players during a practice at Sugar House Park last week, but few were found.

Offensive linemen weren't efficient in drills. Some players pull up early while running wind sprints. Several others false started during drills, resulting in up-downs for others in that unit.

Head coach Brody Benson issued a stern pep talk in the huddle at the end of practice, but he also left the players with one key instruction for future drills.

"Go out and compete in everything that you do," Benson said.

Compete is something that the Rams have done all to well during the last few seasons. Highland has won at least eight games and made the playoffs in each of the previous five seasons, last reaching the Class 4A state championship game in 2006.

Last year's squad finished 8-4, claiming a first-round victory over Bountiful before falling to Pine View in the state quarterfinals. That team was stacked with big-name players, including fullback/defensive end Muli Kinikini, defensive lineman Latu Heimuli and center Sam Nelson. Unfortunately for the Rams, all three players and other key starters graduated.

The Rams return roughly four starters on each side of the ball, with several others who received playing time last season. However, Highland has more depth this season, especially in the trenches, where several players compete on both sides.

"We're going to have enough offensive linemen to where we're going to be able to spell some kids," Benson said. "Maybe we can have more guys playing these positions, guys who I can trust and rotate in there. I know that I'll have that on the defensive side."

However, the Rams' signature flexbone triple-option offense will revolve around the decision-making of senior quarterback Mason Keller, who was a backup last season. He'll have plenty of protection with seniors Peter Ferrin and Julio Hernandez manning the tackle positions.

Benson said that Keller is prepared for the job and should benefit with an experienced offensive line and solid skill position players.

"He's studied our offense and spent time this summer watching film with our offensive coordinator," Benson said. "He's doing a real good job reading the option. I think we'll be just fine with him."

The defense, which operates out of a 4-3 formation, will be manned by Ferrin, who also plays defensive end. The 6-foot-3, 195-pound Ferrin led the team in sacks as a sophomore two years ago, and he's expected to again be one of the top playmakers.

Ferrin will be joined on defense by other two-way players, including halfbacks Alex Olsen and Chris Lloyd, senior fullback Sione Fainu, junior right guard Ono Tafisi and senior guard George Heimuli.

"We're an attack defense; we like to be aggressive and get after people," Benson said. "We're going to blitz a lot. We hang our butts out there, but we have a secondary that [allows] us to do that."

Still, the Rams will field several new starters this season. The players realize that it'll probably take some time for the team to gel.

"We lost a lot of seniors on both sides of the ball, so it's a new start with a bunch of new players," junior wideout Nate Fakahafua said.

Salt Lake Tribune - Muli signs with Snow!

2009-02-20T01:28:00.002-07:00

Here is the story, by Jay Drew:

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Football: Snow signs 21, including 18 Utahns

BYU didn't land a highly sought after football player from Hawaii's Punahou School, but Snow College in Ephraim did.

The Badgers, who played in the junior college national championship game last fall at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, have signed 21 players, coach Steve Coburn said Tuesday.

Among the 21 is Trevor Iosefa, a defensive lineman from Punahou who was teammates with Manti Te'o, the five-star linebacker who was heavily recruited by BYU but signed with Notre Dame.

Eighteen of Snow's signees are from Utah, while one is from Florida and the other is from Pennsylvania.

The Badgers recruited just one quarterback, Alta's Ammon Olsen, but he signed with Southern Utah.

Coburn said the program doesn't have a big need for a QB because former Timpview star Quin Mecham is expected to return for his sophomore season. Behind him, there is a logjam of QBs, some of whom have recently returned from church missions, vying to be the backup.

Of course, Snow's primary QB last fall, former Hillcrest star Jon Eastman, has signed with Colorado State. We will have more on where other former Snow standouts are heading in a later post.

Coburn said that in past years the Badgers have gone after more players who had Division I offers but failed to qualify academically. This year, he recruited more guys who were qualifiers, but didn't have many D-I offers.

Of course, there are exceptions. With no other football-playing junior colleges in the state, Snow coaches increasingly find themselves recruiting against Southern Utah, Weber State and Dixie State.

Some of the signees that Coburn is especially excited about are Layton running back LaVaughn Jackson, Manti linebacker Griffen Aste and Manti receiver Nick Brown.

Highland linebacker Muli Kinikini is one of the players that drew some D-I interest and offers, but signed with Snow just in case he doesn't qualify.

Here's the list of Snow signees:

NAME POSITION HIGH SCHOOL HOMETOWN
Austin Jones DB Orem HS (Orem, Utah)
Kimball Jensen DB Layton HS (Layton, Utah)
Junior Cole DB Northridge HS (West Point, Utah)
Trey Phillips DB Alta HS (Draper, Utah)
Brayden Compton DB Sky View HS (North Logan, Utah)
Shawn Smith DB Hialeah HS (Hialeah, Florida)
Trevor Iosefa DL Punahou HS (Ewa Beach, Hawaii)
Griffen Aste LB Manti HS (Manti, Utah)
Muli Kinikini LB Highland HS (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Robert Atiga LB Hunter HS (West Valley City, Utah)
Riley Spackman LB Sky View HS (Hyde Park, Utah)
Josh Thompson K Logan HS (Logan, Utah)
Stephen Gwynn WR Logan HS (Providence, Utah)
Nick Brown WR Manti HS (Ephraim, Utah)
Ronrei Lloyd WR Woodland Hills HS (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)
Jake Vallieres OL Kearns HS (Kearns, Utah)
Dallin Powell OL Layton HS (Layton, Utah)
LaVaughn Jackson RB Layton HS (Layton, Utah)
Tenny Palepoi DL Skyline HS (Salt Lake City, Utah)
Al Lapuaho DL Granger HS (West Valley City, Utah)
Sam Katoa DL American Fork HS (American Fork, Utah)

Muli Signs With Snow Junior College

2009-02-20T01:21:00.003-07:00

Well, it's been a hectic few months. We've been trying our hardest to get Muli to pass the ACT Exam, and have been running into a wall. He's slated for the April exam date, and hopefully with some tutoring and ACT prep courses, we can knock this thing out, and move on.
Muli's academics has been an area of concern for some programs who've come calling, and they've made the decision to move in other directions, and those that have chosen to give Muli time, have offered him preferred walk-on status.
Muli has signed with the Snow College Badgers program out of Ephraim, Utah. They have a rich tradition, and have turned out some very talented players that have gone on to stardom on the D-1 level, and the NFL. But, he has a preferred walk-on offer from the University of Utah, which hinges on his ACT score. Either route would be beneficial in its own way, and detrimental as well, but the important thing is a college education, and a free one at that!
Good luck on the ACT, and if we can't attain the required score, good luck as a Snow Badger, either way, we're with you all the way #3!

SugarHouse Journal - Sarah Thomas - II

2008-12-22T00:01:00.003-07:00

Another old article recently found online, and now archived here:

Highland football gearing up for state

by Sarah Thomas

The high school football season has come and is almost gone already. After publication of this issue of the Sugar House Journal, the Highland Rams have only one game remaining in the regular season, a showdown with the Murray Spartans on Thursday, Oct. 23, and are ready to dive into state tournament play.

Head coach Brody Benson said his players are working hard and are finding their groove at the right point in the season.

“The season is going pretty well,” he said. “We are coming together; we’re focusing on minimizing penalties and crucial mistakes.” Those mistakes left a gaping wound in the Rams’ season opener against Mountain Crest, when they totaled 312 yards of offense but couldn’t manage to earn the win after giving up the ball six times.

“You can’t win like that,” Benson added, noting that his team has done a much better job at holding on to their offensive possessions since their ugly debut. “We are peaking at the right time.”

The Rams are meeting every team’s goal of playing their best right as the playoffs start and they are doing so behind a string of players. Nick Orchard, the Rams’ quarterback as well as a prevailing force on defense, has become a great leader for his team.

“[Orchard] is a great kid, he has done very well, especially with his running game,” Benson said. As of press time, Orchard had run for five touchdowns this season and averaged 79 rushing yards per game in addition to four passing touchdowns and 68 yards a game in the air. Muli Kinikini and Latu Heimulli are also making noise on both sides of the ball. Kinikini had recorded six rushing touchdowns in conjunction with 68 rushing yards per game, and has averaged almost a sack a game on defense. Hemulli has also contributed a handful of sacks and “has done a great job on both sides of the ball,” Benson said. “[Heimulli] is a great kid and also one of our highest-recruited players.”

The biggest surprise for the Highland squad is the production they are getting from Jordan Crayton. The senior is a relative newcomer since he hadn’t played since junior high before putting the pads back on this season.

“[Crayton] has done a great job. He was a lot further along at the start of the season than I expected he would be,” Benson said. “He loves to hit, which is usually the hardest thing to get kids to do.” Crayton has been playing multiple positions for the Rams, including cornerback and wide receiver. Most of his time and production come for his play on special teams, where he is used for kick and punt returns.

Benson’s team suffered a loss to the top ranked team in 4A a few weeks ago, a 32-21 loss to the Cottonwood Colts. Since then, the Rams have faced off against Cyprus and West high schools, both of which are fighting with Highland for a better seeding in the state tournament. The Rams will finish up the regular season with the Spartans, a team that has struggled this season, and then look forward to making some unexpected noise in the 4A state tournament, which starts Saturday, Nov. 1.

“We have to focus on each game and then go into state with the same outlook,” he said.

SugarHouse Journal - Sarah Thomas - I

2008-12-21T23:57:00.003-07:00

An older article from 3 months ago, recently discovered and now posted here:
Highland senior running back Tevita Kinikini has helped lead the Rams to a 2-1 start, pending the Sept. 12 matchup with East.

High school football season is well under way throughout Utah and Sugar House residents have reason to celebrate. Although the Highland football team dropped their first game, a 26-21 battle with Mountain Crest, the Rams have bounced back and proved that they will be a top contender this season.

Head coach Brody Benson’s team has since defeated two 5A powers: the American Fork Cavemen, 33-15, and the Skyline Eagles, in a come-from-behind 13-9 victory, in addition to playing their region opener at East, which was after press time. Senior quarterback Nick Orchard has been the difference maker for the Rams; however, it isn’t just his passing that’s been so valuable for the Highland squad.

In Highland’s first win, over the Cavemen, Orchard rushed for 251 yards, including 70 and 40-yard touchdown runs. A week later, against the Eagles and with his team down 9-0, Orchard constructed two big drives, of 85 and 99 yards, in the last four minutes of the game, both of which ended in touchdowns. After connecting with Nate Fakahafua for a 29-yard touchdown pass, the Rams needed the ball back and needed to score again. That opportunity presented itself when Benson called for an onside kick, the Eagles recovered and the Highland defense forced them to turn the ball back over.

On the second of the two come-back scoring opportunities, “in the last two minutes of the game, [Orchard] had three runs for 79 yards and then ended it with a 5-yard pass to [Fakahafua],” Benson said. The Eagles had 45 seconds to respond, and when the Skyline quarterback threw the ball downfield, Orchard came up with the interception to end the game.

Up next for the Rams is the rest of their region schedule, including games against Granger at home on Sept. 19, at Olympus on Sept. 26, and the highly-anticipated match up with the Cottonwood Colts at home on Oct. 3.

Tevita Muli Kinikini - 2008 Football HiLites - Pt. II

2008-12-17T09:51:00.011-07:00

Some highlights from this year's season.

Tevita Muli Kinikini - 2008 Football HiLites - Pt. I

2008-12-17T09:48:00.003-07:00

Some highlights from this year's season.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. East '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:19:00.001-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. West '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:18:00.001-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Pine View '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:16:00.001-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Skyline '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:14:00.002-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Olympus '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:11:00.001-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. American Fork '08 - Highlights

2008-12-12T00:06:00.002-07:00

Stats will be posted.

2008 Deseret News All-State Teams

2008-12-12T00:04:00.001-07:00

Class 4A
MVP - Xavier Sua'Filo (Timpview)
First Team
QB - Steve Romero (Cottonwood), Casey Rumsey (Timpview).
RB - Isi Sofele (Cottonwood), Adam Timo (Snow Canyon).
WR - Alo Moli (Cottonwood), Travis Vanleeuwen (Timpview).
TE - Jordan Egbert (Orem).
OL - Darren Denucci (Bountiful), John Martinez (Cottonwood), Kevin Moss (Pine View), Colton Reeder
(Mountain Crest), Percey Taumoelau (Cottonwood).
DL - Eric Berntson (Sky View), Latu Heimuli (HIghland), Bronson Kaufusi (Timpview).
LB - Adam Bangerter (Pine View), Ethen Lofthouse (Mountain Crest), Travis Parrish (Bountiful), Lason
Whittingham (Timpview).
DB - Chris Badger (Timpview), Justin Ence (Pine View), Ethan Rasmussen (Mountain Crest).
PK - Joe Lake (Bountiful).
Specialist - J.D. Falslev (Mountain View).
Second Team
QB - Alex Kuresa (Mountain Crest).
RB - Anthony Heimuli (Mountain View), Manu Samani (Granger), Levi Te'o (Timpview).
WR - Spencer Hille (Olympus), Cameron Lamb (Roy).
TE - Austen Richards (Bonneville).
OL - Alihi Fa'alafua (Orem), Bryson Hobson (Tooele), Logan Lloyd (Dixie), Stevie Stikolonatu (East).
DL - Cullen Clark (Bountiful), Muli Kinikini (Highland), Avalisi Lapuaho (Granger), Likio Pope (Provo), Logan
Taele (Dixie).
LB - Jason Bilanzich (Cottonwood), Sam Nielson (Highland), Taylor Orr (Pine View), Hayden Snow (Mountain
Crest).
DB - Brayden Compton (Sky VIew), Mike Fabrizio (Bountiful), Asi Hosea (Cottonwood), Justin Stofferahn
(Bonneville).
Honorable Mention
Chris Bogoriz (Bonneville), Tyler Boulter (Orem), K.J. Boyer (Pine View), Jordan Clemente (Tooele), CJ Corry
(Woods Cross), Jordan Crayton (Highland), Taani Fisilau (Cottonwood), Jake Folkerson (Bountiful), Dee
Hamala (Murray), Kevin Haynes (Cyprus), Alex Knowles (Mountain Crest), Ofa Latu (Timpview), Justin Lytle
(Pine View), Blake McKenzie (Timpview), Anthony Miles (Provo), Jacob Morrison (East), Nick Orchard
(Highland), Colton Ramon (Springville), Dalton Snook (Cottonwood), Riley Spackman (Sky View), Matt Stewart
(Mountain Crest), Nate Stroshine (Mountain View), Trevor Whittingham (Timpview), Tanner Wood (Pine View).

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Bountiful '08 - Highlights

2008-11-18T21:16:00.004-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Cottonwood '08 - Highlights

2008-11-18T21:13:00.002-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Cyprus '08 - Highlights

2008-11-18T21:11:00.002-07:00

Stats will be posted.

Tevita Muli Kinikini vs. Mountain Crest '08 - Highlights

2008-11-18T21:05:00.002-07:00

Stats will be posted.

2008 Football Playoffs - Quarterfinals - The Spectrum

2008-11-09T22:19:00.002-07:00

Survive And Advance

Stephenson FG Helps Panthers Hold Off Rams

BY DAVID CORDERO • dcordero@thespectrum.com • November 8, 2008

ST. GEORGE - Some football coaches have trained themselves to only focus on the game in front of them.

Pine View's Ray Hosner doesn't pretend to be that kind of coach. A lot of emotions were going through his mind after Michael Stephenson nailed a 36-yard field goal to give the Panthers the lead over Highland with less than two minutes to go.

The most prominent of them was gratitude.

"I told his mom, thanks for having all those boys," said Hosner, who coached another good kicker in Riley Stephenson for four seasons. "They've been a great asset to Pine View football. I was getting a little teary-eyed because of what a great family they are."

Pine View's defense held Highland after Stephenson's kick and the Panthers escaped with a 10-7 win over the visiting Rams on Friday to advance to the 4A semifinals at Rice-Eccles Stadium in Salt Lake City. Pine View will face Cottonwood, which trounced Bonneville 44-7, in the 10:30 a.m. game Friday.

Stephenson's clutch kick was a big reason why.

"It was just like a PAT," Stephenson said. "I really didn't feel any pressure. I just blocked the crowd out."

Hosner was a bit more sentimental.

"When he was trotting out there, I thought 'what a special moment,'" the coach said. "He's going to kick the winning field goal, his brother (Riley) just got home off his mission, could you ask for a better situation than that?"

Hosner might also wonder if he could possibly ask for anything more out of quarterback, safety and holder Justin Ence. The unselfish senior had a part in almost in every play, rushing for 77 yards on 20 taxing carries, taking part in 17 tackles and perhaps his most important ball-handling of the day: pulling in a high snap for Stephenson's field goal.

The Panthers rode Ence all night, but even more so on Pine View's final possession of consequence. Taking over at their own 29, the Panthers got a 15-yard run by Ence, followed by a 3-yarder and a 14-yard scamper.

Although Ence probably could have done without the punishing out-of-bounds tackle delivered by Jordan Crayton on the end of the 14-yarder, he gladly accepted the added 15 yards.

"Our coaches told us it would be tough," Ence said. "They told us that if we execute our plays, they're going to make at least one mistake and that would be the game-changer."

Ence had one more rush of five yards to set up the field goal. He had a 3-yard touchdown in the second quarter that put the Panthers on top 7-0.

"It was frustrating we couldn't get in the end zone more," said Ence, who didn't complete any of his seven pass attempts, although two were dropped. "We would drive it and then we'd get a penalty. It's just little mistakes we need to improve on, but that was a heck of a team that we just played. They work hard and they have some big guys."

Rams running back Muli Kinikini had 23 rushes for 119 yards and scored a touchdown as Highland outgained Pine View 270-141. However, the Rams fumbled twice and they were recovered by Adam Bangerter.

2008 Football Playoffs - Quarterfinals - Matchup

2008-11-09T22:17:00.001-07:00

Story of the game - Michael Stephenson kicked a 36-yard field goal
with 1:27 to go and the Panthers' defense limited the Rams to a
single score and claimed a tough 4-A playoff win on their home field.

Highland's best moment - Trailing 7-0 at halftime, QB Nick Orchard
led Highland on a 90-yard, 20-play drive that took up most of the third
quarter. Muli Kinikini scored the tying touchdown.

Pine View's best moment - The Panthers' defense barely stopped
Highland on a fake punt in the fourth quarter. They moved the ball
downfield, which set up Stephenson's FG. To add to the excitement,
the ball barely cleared the crossbar.

What was learned from the game - The Rams season is gone, but
not forgotten. Highland improved throughout the season, and made it
further in the playoff than last year. The defense kept them in every
game.

Next - Highland is done. Pine View advances to play Cottonwood in a
4-A semifinal at Rice-Eccles Stadium.

2008 Football Playoffs - Quarterfinals - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-11-09T21:52:00.004-07:00

4A Quarterfinals: Pine View 10, Highland 7

Prep Football: Panthers Sneak By The Rams

By Joshua Sine
Special to The Tribune

Article Last Updated: 11/08/2008 08:29:38 AM MST

ST. GEORGE - It was the passing of the torch on a picturesque Friday night, as perennial football power Highland was defeated by southern utah powerhouse Pine View Panthers 10-7.
In a game that contrasted the Rams' old-style veer option with the Panthers' new-era zone read option, both teams kept the ball on the ground, amassing a combined 448 rushing yards and a total of 21 combined forward pass attempts.
"I told the guys it was going to be a bar room brawl," said Pine View coach Ray Hosner. "You just got to come out swinging and not be intimidated, and that's what we did."
Let the record show that the Panthers threw the first punch. Early in the second quarter, Pine View quarterback Justin Ence jabbed first. Shedding off two Ram defenders, Ence burst into the end zone, finishing of an 80-yard drive that was aided by two personal-foul penalties on the Rams, giving the Panthers a 7-0 lead.
The Rams were plagued by penalties and turnovers throughout the first half, as two drives in the red zone stalled on fumbles recovered by the Panthers. Highland's only points of the game came off of a 22-play, 90-yard drive that drained 9 minutes off the clock.
After Highland's score, the Panthers took their next possession all the way to the 19, where kicker Michael Stephenson gave the knockout, putting Pine View up for good at 10-7 from 36 yards out.
"This win goes to our defense - they battled and got it done," said Ence, who started both ways, recording 17 tackles along with 102 yards rushing. "It is a great feeling, but we know we will need to play better next week."
Pine View will play Cottonwood at Rice-Eccles Stadium next Friday in a rematch from earlier this season where the Colts took apart the Panthers.

Pine View 10, Highland 7
Friday, November 07, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Highland	8-4, 5-2	0	0	0	7	7
Pine View	9-1, 5-0	0	7	0	3	10

Scoring Summary:
PV — Ence 2 run (Stevenson kick)
H — Kinikini 1 run (Hicken kick)
PV — Stevenson 36 FG

2008 Football Playoffs - Quarterfinals - Deseret News

2008-11-09T21:43:00.003-07:00

4A High School Football Playoffs: Stephenson's Field Goal Lifts Pine View Over Highland

By Andy Griffin
For the Deseret News

Published: Saturday, Nov. 8, 2008 8:49 a.m. MST

ST. GEORGE — Michael Stephenson made the go-ahead field goal with 1:27 left and Stephen Anderson tipped away a desperation fourth-down pass as Pine View edged Highland 10-7 Friday night in Panther Stadium.

Highland won all the statistical categories in the game except three. The Panthers had fewer turnovers (2-0), fewer penalties (five for 52 yards vs. the Rams' 11 for 115 yards) and, ultimately, more points.

"They're a tough team that plays hard on every down," Pine View assistant coach Telly Esplin said. "But I've never seen a kid as tough as Justin Ence. He played every down and made so many plays."

Ence, Pine View's quarterback and free safety, struggled in the passing game, failing to complete a pass on seven attempts. But he rushed for 79 hard-fought yards and his 25th rushing score of the season. And on defense, he was a real difference-maker.

Still, Highland seemed to have the Panthers where it wanted them. Though Pine View led 7-0 at the half on Ence's two-yard scamper, the Rams owned the ball in the third quarter.

Highland forced a PV punt to open the quarter, then proceeded to go on a 10-minute, 20-play drive. It started at the Rams' own 10-yard line and, along the way, quarterback Nick Orchard and company converted on a third-and-12, a third-and-five (after a holding penalty on first down) and a fourth-and-goal at the one-yard line.

Muli Kinikini was the workhorse on the drive, carrying the ball nine times for 33 yards, including the final drive that made it 7-6 with 10:05 to play. Freshman Hayes Hicken converted the extra point to tie the game.

The Panthers were forced to punt moments later and Highland took over with 8:02 left in the game and the score all tied up at 7-7.

"We were very nervous," Esplin said. "We just told our defense that it was on them to get us the ball back and they did."

Highland moved the ball a bit, but got a delay of game on second-and-nine at the Pine View 40-yard line. Then, on third-and-14, Orchard was nearly sacked and called for intentional grounding. That left the Rams with fourth-and-19 and a fake punt run by Bridger Walzer came up three yards short.

Pine View then marched 57 yards in less than two minutes to set up Stephenson's game-winning 36-yard field goal.

"I was just thinking I needed to get it really high because they had a pretty good rush on," Stephenson said. "It was almost too high. It didn't make it by much."

Highland had 200 yards more total offense than the Panthers (341-141), but the Rams squandered multiple scoring opportunities in the first half with penalties and a pair of fumbles. Highland also kept the ball nearly nine minutes longer in the game than Pine View.

But the Rams, who finish the season 8-4, racked up a lot of penalties, including three late-hit penalties after Pine View players were out of bounds.

Pine View, 10-1, got its lone touchdown drive in the second quarter. Ence carried five times for 38 yards during the 51-yard drive.

GAME DATE: Friday, November 07, 2008

Pine View 10, Highland 7
Pine View's Justin Ence worked hard for 102 yards and one touchdown in this smashmouth football game. Pine View advanced to the 4A semifinals and will play unbeaten Cottonwood.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Highland (5-2, 8-4)	0	0	0	7	-	7
Pine View (5-0, 10-1)	0	7	0	3	-	10

SCORING PLAYS
PINE VIEW - Ence 2 run (Stephenson kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 1 run (Hicken kick)
PINE VIEW - Stephenson 36 FG

2008 Playoffs - Week 2 - HHS vs. Pine View - Deseret News

2008-11-05T19:50:00.002-07:00

High School Football 4A preview: Highland at Pine View

By Michael Black
Deseret News

Highland (8-3) at Pine View (9-1)
4A state tournament quarterfinal
Friday, 5 p.m.
Parry's Power Guide: Pine View by 3.5 points
All-time series: 0-0
Coach vs. Coach: First meeting between Highland's Brody Benson and Pine View's Ray Hosner
Last meeting: First meeting

Warmer weather and sunshine. Perhaps a round or two on one of the many outstanding golf courses or some relaxation either by the pool or at a spa, that's what many think of when mentioning a trip to Southern Utah and St. George. But as Highland gets ready to make the trip to face Pine View in the 4A quarterfinals Friday at 5 p.m., those things are far from the minds of the players and coaches.

"It will be a good trip, a fun trip, but the guys understand this isn't a vacation," said Rams coach Brody Benson. "The kids have been really focused in practice, and I think they understand the importance of being prepared and taking care of business."

After back-to-back trips to the 4A championship game in 2005 and '06, the Rams had a disappointing exit to the playoffs in a first-round loss in 2007. Although painful, Benson feels the loss could turn into positive as a good learning experience.

"We kind of exercised some demons with beating Bountiful," he said, "and now we kind of got back a little bit of swagger. The guys know what it is like to win a game like that and we are getting ready for the next step. We want to get back to the turf, that was the goal from the start."

Benson feels for Highland to reach its goal, it will have to limit turnovers and win the battle in the trenches.

"We need to take care of the football, and I think it will boil down to the play on the offensive and defensive lines," added Benson. "We know we have a good defensive line, and we will need them to do their jobs, especially on their quarterback."

That quarterback is Pine View's Justin Ence. The all-everything leader of the offense has had a tremendous year for the Panthers. He has thrown for over 1,000 yards, but his real threat is on the ground. Ence is the second-leading rusher in the state with 1,498 yards on the ground in 10 games.

"For us to win, we need to stop Ence," Benson said. "He is a playmaker and they put a lot of faith in him. If we can stop him, we have a good chance."

Highland does have the players to try to contain Ence, and it all starts up front with Latu Heimuli. The four-star recruit is a beast up front at 6-foot-3 and 296 pounds, but it is more than just his size that the Rams rely on.

"Latu is a smart football player. He makes my life easier," said Benson. "He's been starting since he was a sophomore. Besides being just a really talented player, he is almost like having another coach out there on the field."

This game could come down to which star shines brighter. Obviously, there are more players out on the field, but if Heimuli or Ence establish themselves, it would be a good bet that team will move on.

Highland statistical breakdown
Scoring offense: 27.6 ppg
Scoring defense: 12.6 ppg
Passing leader: Nick Orchard (61-138, 44.2%, 875 yards, 9 TDs)
Rushing leader: Nick Orchard (146 carries, 1,089 yards, 9 TDs); Muli Kinikini (120 carries, 700 yards, 8 TDs)
Receiving leader: Jordan Crayton (16 catches, 205 yards, 1 TD)
Tackles leader: Sam Nielson (81 tackles)
Sacks leader: Muli Kinikini (9 sacks), Latu Heimuli (8 sacks)
Interceptions leader: Zach Baucom (1 interception)

Pine View statistical breakdown
Scoring offense: 36.2 ppg
Scoring defense: 17.9 ppg
Passing leader: Justin Ence (71-139, 51.1%, 1,091 yards, 8 TDs)
Rushing leader: Justin Ence (192 carries, 1,498 yards, 24 TDs)
Receiving leader: Taylor Orr (25 catches, 330 yards, 1 TD)
Tackles leader: Adam Bangerter (142 tackles)
Sacks leader: Adam Bangerter (12 sacks)
Interceptions leader: Not provided

Highland game-by-game results
08/23 ... Mountain Crest 26, Highland 21
08/29 ... Highland 33, American Fork 15
09/05 ... Highland 13, Skyline 9
09/12 ... East 14, Highland 7
09/19 ... Highland 34, Granger 8
09/26 ... Highland 50, Olympus 13
10/03 ... Cottonwood 32, Highland 21
10/10 ... Highland 35, Cyprus 0
10/15 ... Highland 35, West 12
10/23 ... Highland 42, Murray 0
10/31 ... Highland 12, Bountiful 10

Pine View game-by-game results

08/22 ... Pine View 28, Mountain View 6
08/30 ... Pine View 24, Dominguez, Calif. 21
09/05 ... Cottonwood 52, Pine View 23
09/12 ... Pine View 41, Las Vegas, Nev. 13
09/19 ... Pine View 56, Canyon View 6
09/26 ... Pine View 34, Hurricane 28 (2OT)
10/03 ... Pine View 50, Cedar 16
10/10 ... Pine View 28, Dixie 20
10/17 ... Pine View 30, Snow Canyon 3
10/31 ... Pine View 48, Provo 14

2008 Playoffs - Week 2 Preview - HHS vs. Pine View - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-11-05T19:49:00.001-07:00

4A preview: Highland at Pine View

The Salt Lake Tribune

Article Launched: 11/04/2008 03:47:15 PM MST

Posted: 3:46 PM- Highland at Pine View, Friday 5 p.m.
The Rams have quite the task ahead of them when they travel down to St. George to take on Pine View in the second round of the Class 4A state tournament.
The Panthers' biggest threat on offense is quarterback Justin Ence. He's a mobile quarterback who has thrown for eight touchdowns and has 24 rushing touchdowns.
There's also Villiami Hafoka, who can also be a threat on the run.
But Highland has a few weapons of its own. The Rams are more balanced offensively. Fourteen different players have scored this season and the Rams have another capable quarterback in Nick Orchard, who has thrown nine touchdowns passes and has nine rushing touchdowns.
"They have a great quarterback and they run the spread formation. It's stuff we've seen before this season," Highland coach Brody Benson said. "It will come down to the guys up front, if the offensive and defensive line can control the momentum of the game."

2008 State Football Playoffs Update

2008-11-02T14:34:00.006-07:00

Highland High School Rams Move On!

Like I said, the Rams move on, to play the Pine View Panthers, in St. George.

Here is an update on the 4A picture:

CLASS 4A

First round
Friday's games

Upper bracket
Bonneville 28, Mountain View 21
Cottonwood 31, Orem 24
Pine View 48, Provo 14
Highland 12, Bountiful 10

Lower bracket
Dixie 40, Springville 36
Mountain Crest 49, Cyprus 7
Timpview 49, West 7
Sky View 48, East 16

Here are this week's matchups:

Next week's quarterfinals

Upper bracket
Bonneville (5-5) at Cottonwood (11-0), Fri., 3:30 p.m.
Highland (8-3) at Pine View (9-1), Fri., 3 or 5 p.m.

Lower bracket
Dixie (7-3) at Mtn. Crest (9-1), Fri., 1 p.m.
Sky View (8-3) at Timpview (10-0), TBA

Week 1 - 2008 Playoffs - KSL

2008-11-01T03:11:00.000-06:00

Playoffs - Week 1 - Davis County Clipper

2008-11-01T01:56:00.001-06:00

Highland: 12 Bountiful: 10

In the most exciting and heartbreaking game of the night, Highland came back from a 10-0 deficit to topple the Braves at home, 12-10.

Bountiful opened up its lead when Drew Miner found Cullen Clark on a three yard pass. Joe Lake connected on a 34 yard field goal.

Trailing 10-9 with 2:50 to play after Bountiful fumbled a punt return, Highland recovered the ball on the Braves 15 yard line. On third down and 10 to go a Highland pass into the endzone appeared to be intercepted by Bountiful's Mike Fabrizio. The play was called out of bounds and Highland connected on the game winning field goal with 1:30 to play.

Playoffs - Week 1 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-11-01T01:23:00.002-06:00

Muli, had a great game, both defensively, and on special teams. He re-injured his ankle, on a tackle, but, played through the pain, and played with heart!
I'm not one to complain about officiating, I know they're not pros, and they do the best they can, but the officiating, in this game was horrendous. 14 to 17 penalties, against Highland, versus, only 2, against Bountiful. There were so many obvious Bountiful fouls, but the refs, didn't call them? Had the Rams lost this game, it would have added insult to injury, but, luckily, the refs, weren't able to steal this game!
Now, I realize, that I may sound like a disgruntled fan. Did we deserve some of those penalties, sure! But, it was called so one sided, that it was laughable!
That is all I will say.
Pine View High School, in St. George, will be Highland's next victim!

Highland 12, Bountiful 10
Friday, October 31, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Highland	8-3, 5-2	0	3	6	3	12
Bountiful	8-3, 5-1	0	10	0	0	10

Scoring Summary:
B — Clark 3 pass from Miner (Lake kick)
B — Lake 34 FG
H — Hicken 42 FG
H — Fakahafua 37 pass from Orchard (fail kick)
H — Hicken 32 FG

Playoffs - Week 1 - Deseret News

2008-11-01T01:15:00.006-06:00

High School Football: Ram Defense Prevails Over Bountiful

Low-scoring game decided by late FG

By Ben DeVoe
For the Deseret News

BOUNTIFUL — As Highland High prepared for its first-round state playoff game against Bountiful, it became apparent the Rams were facing a near mirror-image of themselves.

Ferocious defense with a strong interior line and attacking linebackers? Check. Grinding, conservative ground game? Check.

The two teams were evenly matched in most areas of their matchup, with one play quickly swinging the winning pendulum in favor of the Rams as they came away with a 12-10 win.

The Rams looked defeated, trailing 10-9 with just under four minutes remaining in the game. They had sabotaged themselves with 14 penalties for 135 yards, and it appeared they were going to lose their second straight first-round playoff game. They couldn't get anything going against Bountiful's defense and were forced to punt from deep in their own territory.

"We kept telling each other to believe," said Highland quarterback Nick Orchard.

And for good reason. The punt return was muffed and the Rams took possession on the Bountiful 15-yard line. That set up freshman Hayes Hicken's game-winning 32-yard field goal, his second field goal of the game.

Highland can thank its defense for the win. They lived in the Bountiful backfield, holding the Braves to a measly 107 total yards for the game, surrendering only 30 in the second half.

"Our defense stepped up and finished it. I don't know what happened, but our line came out and dominated," said Orchard.

The defensive line, anchored by Latu Heimuli, Ono Tafisi, Muli Kinikini and Toi Taufa, controlled the line of scrimmage and allowed linebackers Bridger Walzer, Sam Nielson and safety Zach Baucom to feed on Bountiful running backs.

Bountiful's defense was every bit as good, stuffing the run for a good part of the game. Highland made some halftime adjustments and started throwing the deep ball with effectiveness. Orchard connected with 6-foot-4 Nate Fakahafua for a 37-yard touchdown that should have tied the game at 10, but Bountiful's Helam Heimuli blocked the point-after try.

The Braves built a 10-0 lead in the first half on a touchdown pass from Drew Miner to Cullen Clark and a 34-yard field goal by Joe Lake. But for the most part of the evening, the offense was unable to muster any consistent drives.

"Our defense has been that way all year. They're just a bunch of tough, nasty kids," said Highland coach Brodie Benson.

GAME DATE: Friday, October 31, 2008

Highland 12, Bountiful 10
In a tough fight to advance in the playoffs, Highland got a little help from freshman Hayes Hicken, who kicked what ended up becoming the game-winning field goal for the Rams. The Highland defense was able to hold Bountiful to only 100 yards of total offense on the night.

Read the full story.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Highland (5-2, 8-3)	0	3	6	3	-	12
Bountiful (5-1, 8-3)	0	10	0	0	-	10

SCORING PLAYS
BOUNTIFUL - Clark 3 pass from Miner (Lake kick)
BOUNTIFUL - Lake 34 FG
HIGHLAND - Hicken 42 FG
HIGHLAND - Fakahafua 37 pass from Orchard (fail kick)
HIGHLAND - Hicken 32 FG

First Round Playoffs - Deseret News Preview

2008-10-29T19:55:00.003-06:00

Muli has been doing some rehab on his sprained ankles, hopefully it will pay dividends, on the field.
On paper, these two teams match up fairly well. However, I give Highland, the advantage, on size. Speed is a tossup, and of course, the home field advantage, going to Bountiful.
If the Rams, can stay disciplined, and avoid penalties, and avoid playing out of position, they will do well. They also, need to tighten up, in their secondary, the DBs need to play smart, and keep everything, in front of them. Turnovers, will play a huge role, in this game, Highland needs to take care, of the ball, and force the Braves, to give it up.
This Highland team is talented, but, they have under-achieved this season, and last. They need to play to their potential, if they do, a championship, is not out of the question!

High school football 4A preview: Highland at Bountiful
By Michael Black
Deseret New

Highland (7-3) at Bountiful (8-2)
4A State Tournament First Round
Friday, 5 p.m.
Parry's Power Guide: Bountiful by 0.5 points
All-time series: Highland leads 23-14
Last meeting: Regular season, Sept. 24, 2004 — Highland 17, Bountiful 10

Glancing over the playoff pairings there were a couple of games that jumped out, and Highland playing Bountiful was one of them.

The two perennial powers in the 4A ranks clashing in the first round is just what any football junky would love to see. Both have impressive records, and both have the talent to compete for a championship — but only one can advance.

The Rams finished third in Region 6 after losing to Cottonwood and East. The Braves were second in Region 5, falling only to Mountain Crest. The Mustangs are one opponent the two teams share in common. Highland lost its opener, 26-21 while the Braves fell 21-7.

Highland's vaunted ground game has again led it to impressive numbers. The Rams average over four touchdowns per game at 29.1 points while surrendering only 12.9. Nick Orchard has stepped into the long line of great decision makers at the helm. He is a dual threat as he has nine rushing touchdowns to go along with eight passing scores. Muli Kinikini supplies the power in the rushing attack and has eight touchdowns. Nate Fakafahua is dangerous in the passing game, and Bridger and Travis Walzer are always dangerous.

The Braves get it done with defense. They lead the classification in points allowed, giving up only eight points per game. Jake Folerson and Travis Parrish are two of the standouts that give opposing offenses nightmares. Offensively, quarterback Drew Miner has thrown for six touchdowns and Mitch Johnson has rushed for nine. Mike Fabrizio has three rushing scores and three receiving.

The debate has raged over which of the respective regions is better, and this game may go along way to answering that question.

Highland statistical breakdown

Scoring offense: 29.1 ppg
Scoring defense: 12.9 ppg
Passing leader: Nick Orchard (57-122, 46.7%, 778 yards, 8 TDs)
Rushing leader: Nick Orchard (133 carries, 1,003 yards, 9 TDs)
Receiving leader: Jordan Crayton (15 catches, 155 yards, 1 TD)
Tackles leader: George Heimuli (70 tackles)
Sacks leader: George Heimuli/Muli Kinikini (8 sacks)
Interceptions leader: Zach Baucom (1 interception)

Bountiful statistical breakdown

Scoring offense: 19.8 ppg
Scoring defense: 8.0 ppg
Passing leader: Drew Miner (52-83, 62.7%, 574 yards, 6 TDs)
Rushing leader: Kyle Johnson (163 carries, 633 yards, 9 TDs)
Receiving leader: Joey Nelson (16 catches, 170 yards, 0 TDs)
Tackles leader: Jake Folkerson (67 tackles)
Sacks leader: Travis Parrish (5 sacks)
Interceptions leader: Travis Parrish, Connor Winters (4 interceptions)

Highland game-by-game results

08/23 ... Mountain Crest 26, Highland 21
08/29 ... Highland 33, American Fork 15
09/05 ... Highland 13, Skyline 9
09/12 ... East 14, Highland 7
09/19 ... Highland 34, Granger 8
09/26 ... Highland 50, Olympus 13
10/03 ... Cottonwood 32, Highland 21
10/10 ... Highland 35, Cyprus 0
10/15 ... Highland 35, West 12
10/23 ... Highland 42, Murray 0

Bountiful game-by-game results

08/22 ... Lone Peak 21, Bountiful 0
08/29 ... Bountiful 17, Clearfield 0
09/05 ... Bountiful 17, Viewmont 14
09/12 ... Bountiful 17, Bonneville 0
09/19 ... Bountiful 10, Box Elder 3
09/26 ... Mountain Crest 21, Bountiful 7
10/03 ... Bountiful 33, Woods Cross 0
10/10 ... Bountiful 21, Sky View 14

Muli's Final Game At HHS - Week 10

2008-10-24T04:52:00.006-06:00

Muli sat out this game, because of the sprained ankles he suffered, in the East, and West games. He seems to be feeling better, and should return for the first round of the playoffs. Highland will be playing Bountiful, at Bountiful.
Tonight was the final night of the regular season, and the final home game, hence, the final game Muli will be suiting up for, on HHS home field.

Week 10 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-10-24T03:41:00.001-06:00

Highland 42, Murray 0
Thursday, October 23, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Murray	0-9, 0-6	0	0	0	0	0
Highland	7-3, 5-2	7	21	7	7	42

Game Summary:
Nick Orchard had 14 rushes for 86 yards, passing the 1,000 yard mark for the season and Bridger Walzer had 8 rushes for 90 yards for Highland. Orchard also went 5 for 10 for 86 passing and two touchdowns. Latu Heimuli had 4 tackles, 4 assists, and 1 sacks, Sam Nielson had 8 assists, and Walzer had 5 tackles and 2 sacks to help score a shutout for Highland's defense.

Scoring Summary:
H — Inukihaangana 5 run (Hicken kick)
H — Walzer 5 run (Hicken kick)
H — Tausa 10 run (Hicken kick)
H — Inukihaangana 31 reception from Orchard (Hicken kick)
H — Crayton 4 reception from Orchard (Hicken kick)
H — Lloyd 29 run (Hicken run)

Week 10 - Deseret News

2008-10-24T03:37:00.001-06:00

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Thursday, October 23, 2008

Highland 42, Murray 0
Nick Orchard rushed for 86 yards, putting him over 1,000 yards on the season, and also passed for two touchdowns as Highland pounded Murray for the win. Sione Inukihaangana rushed for a TD and caught one and Bridger Walzer rushed eight times for 90 yards and one touchdown for the Rams. Defensively, Latu Heimuli had four tackles, four assists and one sack, Sam Nielson had eight assists and Walzer added three tackles, two assists and two sacks for Highland.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Murray (0-7, 0-10)	0	0	0	0	-	0
Highland (5-2, 7-3)	7	21	7	7	-	42

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - Inukihaangana 5 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Walzer 5 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Taufa 10 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Inukihaangana 31 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Crayton 4 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Lloyd 29 run (Hicken kick)

4A 2008 Football Playoff Brackets - My Predictions

2008-10-16T01:32:00.002-06:00

Upper Bracket

Mountain View vs. Bonneville

Cottonwood vs. Orem

Pine View vs. Provo

Bountiful vs. Highland

Lower Bracket

Dixie/Snow Canyon vs. Springville

Mountain Crest vs. Cyprus

Timpview vs. West

East vs. Sky View

Week 9 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-10-16T01:02:00.004-06:00

Muli had a couple of long runs, on offense, which were negated by penalties. Other than that, he re-sprained his ankle, early in the game, which he had originally sprained, in the East game, so he saw limited action this game. His presence, wasn't needed as Highland easily dispatched a re-building West squad.

Highland 35, West 12

Rams Pull Away In Second Half

By Martin Renzhofer
The Salt Lake Tribune

Article Last Updated: 10/16/2008 08:18:17 AM MDT

With the Utah state playoffs not too far in the distance, the Highland Rams came into its Wednesday night's game against visiting West looking to take care of business.
In a sloppy, mistake-filled game, Highland made the necessary adjustments and sprinted away from the Panthers in the second half, riding the legs of quarterback Nick Orchard to a 35-12 victory.
The Rams all but clinched third place in Region 6. "If we take care of business next week," said Highland coach Brody Benson, looking to its upcoming game with Murray.
Highland scored 21 points in the second half, including a 69-yard run by the diminutive but gutty Orchard, who shed West tacklers for 179 yards on 16 carries and three scores. He also gained 99 yards through the air, 92 of which came on two 46-yard completions.
"We adjusted," Orchard said of the Rams' second half performance. "We got great blocks on the back side. We played pretty well."
West, which was its own worst enemy at times with 13 penalties, couldn't keep up offensively. Excluding one 58-yard pass completion, the Panthers' offense was all but shut down in the second half. West could not convert that big play into points, stalling deep inside Highland territory.
"We played as well as we could for as long as we could," said West quarterback Daniel Wray, who completed 12-for-22 for 151 yards. "They're a great, great team. I have all the respect for those guys."
West pulled to within 14-12 at the half, thanks to a Ram turnover, returned 43 yards by Vai Mafi to Highland's 16 in the final minutes of the half.
"We hit a little bit of a lull," Benson said. "We got away from what we were trying to do. [Orchard] is a tough kid. He's not very big, but he's tough."

Highland 35, West 12
Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
West	4-4, 3-2	0	12	0	0	12
Highland	6-3, 4-2	7	7	7	14	35

Game Summary:
Highland was led by Nick Orchard, who had 16 carries for 180 yards and three touchdowns. He also was 4-for-10 for 97 yards and a touchdown.
Sione Inukihaangana had seven carries for 47 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Lotu Heimuli had four tackles and seven assists while Sam Nielsen had four tackles and six assists.

Scoring Summary:
H: Orchard 4 run (Hicken kick)
H: Orchard 30 run (Hicken kick)
W: 5 run Tana Afeaki (kick failed)
W: 5 run Daniel Wray (conversion failed)
H: Anderson 45 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
H: Orchard 70 run (Hicken kick)
H: Inukihaangana 23 run (Hicken kick)

Week 9 - Deseret News

2008-10-16T00:54:00.004-06:00

Muli re-injured his ankle, which he hurt against East. He was in and out, this game, and saw limited action. It is just a sprain, and he should be back at 100%, for the playoffs.
This win puts Highland into the playoffs, most likely at the 3 seed, meaning they will have to travel north, to play the 2 seed, from Region 5.

Orchard Bears Plenty Of Fruit For The Rams

By Bruce Smith
For the Deseret News

Highland's Nick Orchard says he has been timed at 4.7 seconds in the 40-meter dash. He seemed much faster than that on Wednesday night.

The senior quarterback ran for 177 yards, including two back-breaking touchdown runs, to lift the Rams past West 35-12 in a Region 6 game.

The win improved Highland to 6-3 overall and 4-2 in region play. With a win next week against Murray, the Rams would likely earn the third seed in the 4-A playoffs after that. West, which fell to 5-4 and 4-2, plays East next week and will probably get the fourth seed.

If West is to stay competitive, it will need to do something about mental breakdowns. Coach Randy Schreiter criticized his club after Wednesday's game, languishing over such things as 13 penalties, including seven offsides calls.

This was apparently not the same team that entered the game with five wins in its last six games, including a 41-19 victory over Murray last week.

"I knew they would be keyed up," said Highland coach Brody Benson. "We switched it (the snap counts) up to try to slow them down. They have such an athletic defense."

But Highland had Orchard.

Orchard ran for two touchdowns in the first half, including a 30-yarder that gave Highland a 14-0 lead. After West rallied, Orchard threw a 46-yard touchdown pass to Josh Anderson and then buried the Panthers when he sprinted 69 yards on an option play.

"He is a tough kid," said Benson. "He has so much heart and desire. He lit a fire under the offensive line tonight."

That showed as the Rams rushed for 280 yards on just 37 carries — that's 7.6 yards per rush. Highland finished with 378 yards of total offense. West had 236.

The Panthers, however, stayed close in the second quarter, scoring on a 5-yard run by Tana Afeaki, and then Vai Mafi recovered a fumble that led to Daniel Wray's 5-yard run that made it 14-12.

After that, the Panthers' offense was ineffective. Afeaki was a workhorse but, after running for 79 yards in the first half, he had just six carries for 17 yards for the remainder of the game.

The Panthers had to rally through the air. Wray completed 12-of-19 passes for 135 yards, but that is deceptive. In the second half, the only play over 11 yards was a 58-yard pass from Wray to T.J. Rector to the Highland 15. But West was stopped on a fourth-down play shortly afterward.

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Highland 35, West 12
Nick Orchard rushed 16 times for 177 yards and three touchdowns, while passing for 98 yards and one TD to lead Highland over West. The Rams accumulated 378 yards of total offense on the night. Tana Afeaki had 21 rushes for 90 yards and one touchdown for West.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

West (4-2, 5-4)	0	12	0	0	-	12
Highland (4-2, 6-3)	7	7	7	14	-	35

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - Orchard 4 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 30 run (Hicken kick)
WEST - Afeaki 5 run (Fail run)
WEST - Wray 5 run (Fail pass)
HIGHLAND - Anderson 46 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 69 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Inukihaagnana 22 run (Hicken kick)

Week 8 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-10-11T00:35:00.003-06:00

Highland 35, Cyprus 0
Friday, October 10, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Highland	5-3, 3-2	14	7	14	0	35
Cyprus	3-5, 2-3	0	0	0	0	0

Scoring Summary:
H — Kinikini 1 run (Pickens kick)
H — Orchard 33 run (Pickens kick)
H — Orchard 7 pass to Fakahafua (Pickens kick)
H — Kinikini 93 kickoff return (Pickens kick)
H — Walzer 2 run (Pickens kick)

Week 8 - Deseret News

2008-10-11T00:29:00.002-06:00

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Friday, October 10, 2008

Highland 35, Cyprus 0
Latu Heimuli blocked a field goal, made two sacks to lead the Rams while Sam Nielson had three solo tackles and three assisted with two sacks. Nick Orchard rushed 10 times for 70 yards while Bridger Walzer gained 90 yards on four carries. In addition to a 93-yard kick return, Tevita Kinikini made three tackles and two sacks in the shutout.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Highland (3-2, 5-3)	14	7	14	0	-	35
Cyprus (2-3, 3-5)	0	0	0	0	-	0

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 1 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 33 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Fakahafua 7 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 93 kick return (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Walzer 2 run (Hicken kick)

Week 7 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-10-06T14:18:00.001-06:00

Colts slowed

Following a 6-0 start that included outscoring their opponents 256-69, the Colts' looked untouchable.
While Cottonwood is undefeated after Friday night's win over Highland, the Rams introduced some doubt by scoring more on the Colts' and holding them to fewer points than any other team has all season.
Highland's Muli KiniKini took advantage of a botched snap in the first quarter to run in a 42-yard fumble recovery touchdown, the Colts' first points allowed in region and their first deficit of the year.

Week 7 - Deseret News

2008-10-04T03:05:00.004-06:00

Cottonwood Air Attack Too Much For Highland

By James Edward
Deseret News

Cottonwood found a weakness in Highland's pass defense Friday night and attacked it over and over and over again.

Steve Romero connected on touchdown passes of 80, 83 and 74 yards — all in the first half — in setting the tone for Cottonwood's dominating 32-21 victory over Region 6 foe Highland.

"It's a great win and a great win for our kids," said Cottonwood coach Cecil Thomas.

Despite throwing for 350 yards and four touchdowns while rushing for another, it was probably Romero's worst game of the season, according to his coach. In addition to his lengthy TDs, he also threw three interceptions and lost two fumbles that were returned for touchdowns.

Romero's first fumble gifted Highland its only lead of the game midway through the second quarter as Muli Kinikini picked it up and darted 40 yards for a 7-6 lead.

Highland seemed poised to build on the momentum, with Cottonwood facing a third-and-10 on its next series. With better pass coverage, perhaps it would have unfolded that way. Romero connected with Jason Lundquist on an 83-yard strike right up the gut of Highland's defense, putting the Colts back in front 12-7.

Romero's third touchdown of the game was the dagger. After a Highland 12-play, seven-minute drive stalled deep in Cottonwood's territory with under a minute remaining, the Colts capitalized quickly as Romero hooked up with Ali Moli on a 76-yard touchdown pass with 35 seconds remaining in the half.

Moli ran virtually the same route his teammates did on their long touchdowns to give Highland an 18-7 halftime lead.

"There was a lot of stuff we could take advantage of based on what they were giving us," said Thomas.

The win helped Cottonwood improve to 7-0 on the season, and sets the stage for a big region showdown next Friday against East, a game that will realistically determine the Region 6 championship.

Even though Romero added a 36-yard touchdown run and then a 52-yard screen pass touchdown to Isi Sofele in the second half, it was the play of Cottonwood's defense that Thomas was most pleased about. Of Highland's three scores, two were on fumble recoveries and the third was on a Nick Orchard to Zach Baucom touchdown pass in the final two minutes with Cottonwood in a preventive defense.

"Thank goodness the defense came out and played as well as they did. They carried us tonight for sure," said Thomas.

Cottonwood's defense forced three turnovers, but more importantly never allowed Highland's offense to get much of anything going offensively despite a big advantage in time of possession and first downs. The Colts limited Highland to methodical drives that often stalled just outside of field goal range.

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Friday, October 03, 2008

Cottonwood 32, Highland 21
Steve Romero only completed 8 of 18 passes, but he made them count by throwing for 350 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Colts to a convincing win over the Rams.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Cottonwood (4-0, 7-0)	6	12	7	7	-	32
Highland (2-2, 4-3)	0	7	0	14	-	21

SCORING PLAYS
COTTONWOOD - Hudson 80 pass from Romero (Fail kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 40 fumble recovery (Hicken kick)
COTTONWOOD - Lundquist 83 pass from Romero (Fail pass)
COTTONWOOD - Moli 74 pass from Romero (Fail kick)
COTTONWOOD - Romero 36 run (Beveridge kick)
HIGHLAND - Ferrin 15 fumble recovery (Fail kick)
COTTONWOOD - Sofele 52 pass from Romero (Beveridge kick)
HIGHLAND - Baucom 19 pass from Orchard (B. Walzer run)

Week 7 - Pre-Game Deseret News

2008-10-03T23:56:00.002-06:00

High School Football: Friday Night Game Of The Week — Cottonwood at Highland

Cottonwood Colts (6-0) at Highland Rams (4-2)

All-time series: Highland leads, 14-5

About the Colts: Their offense is dynamic, and starts with the play of running back Isi Sofele. He's rushed for 813 yards on 95 carries. Steve Romero has thrown for 1,078 yards in five games. The defense started slowly, but has recorded three straight shutouts. Lineman John Martinez is a blue-chip prospect.

About the Rams: Quarterback Nick Orchard and running back Muli Kinikini are a tough combo to stop in Highland's option-running offense. Orchard has rushed for 607 yards, while Kinikini has gained 492 rushing yards. Latu Heimuli anchors both the offensive and defensive lines. He has recorded five sacks so far this season.

Week 7 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-10-03T23:49:00.002-06:00

Prep Football: Cottonwood Recovers To Beat Highland

By George Artsitas
Special to The TribuneCottonwood's quarterback Steve Romero crouched into a ball and hurled his fists against the turf like he was trying to start an earthquake.
He had just botched a snap that allowed Highland's Muli KiniKini to rumble to a 42-yard fumble recovery touchdown, the Colts' first points allowed in region and their first deficit of the young region season. But he also did something that Cottonwood hasn't been forced to do for the last four weeks: show resilience and respond.
Romero was able to step up in pressure and deliver an 83-yard dart to wideout Jason Lundquist after the fumble and never looked back, as Cottonwood stifled the Rams 32-21.
The game of highs and lows started early for Romero, with him throwing an interception during the first drive of the game to Sione Inukihaangana.
After a quick punt from the Rams, Romero stepped up on the very next offensive snap and fired a 80 yard bomb to Chandler Hudson to put the Colts up 6-0 early.
It wouldn't be his last.
Beside Lundquist and Hudson, Romero was also able to connect with Alo Moli with 45 second left in the first session on a 75 yarder as well as to a common target, tailback Isis Sofele, for 52 yards.
When it was all said and done, Romero finished 8-for-18 for an astounding 350 yards with five total touchdowns, including a 35-yard scamper for a score on the ground.
Regardless of his positive numbers, Cottonwood head coach Cecil Thomas was a lot more focused on his two fumbles and three interceptions and is happy his defense could play well enough to win.
"Honestly, this was probably one of the worst games he's had," said Thomas, "There's a lot of stuff we can work on and thank god our defense carried us."

Cottonwood 32, Highland 21
Friday, October 03, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Cottonwood	7-0, 4-0	6	12	7	7	32
Highland	4-3, 2-2	0	7	0	14	21

Scoring Summary:
C — Hudson 80 pass from Romero (kick blocked)
H — Kinikini 42 fumble return (Hickens kick)
C — Lundquist 83 pass from Romero (conversion failed)
C — 75 pass from Romero
C — Romero 35 run (Beveridge kick)
H — Ferrin 10 fumble return (kick blocked)
C — Fofele 52 pass from Romero (Beveridge kick)
H — Baucom 9 pass from Orchard (Walter run)

4A 2008 Football Playoff Brackets

2008-09-27T01:44:00.002-06:00

4A SCHOOLS 2008 State Football Playoff Pairings

Upper Bracket
*Region 7 #2 vs. Region 5 #4
*Region 6 #1 vs. Region 7 #4
*Region 9 #1 vs. Region 7 #5
*Region 5 #2 vs. Region 6 #3

Lower Bracket
*Region 9 #2 vs. Region 7 #3
*Region 5 #1 vs. Region 6 #5
*Region 7 #1 vs. Region 6 #4
*Region 6 #2 vs. Region 5 #3

Week 6 - Salt Lake Tribune

2008-09-27T00:58:00.006-06:00

Highland 50, Olympus 13
Friday, September 26, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Highland	4-2, 2-1	10	21	13	6	50
Olympus	1-5, 0-3	0	0	0	13	13

Scoring Summary:
H — Hicken 34 kick
H — Inukihaangana 12 run (Hicken kick)
H — Kinikini 4 run (Hicken kick)
H — Orchard 25 run (Hicken kick)
H — Orchard 33 run (Hicken kick)
H — Kinikini 2 run (kick blocked)
H — Keller 12 run (Hicken kick)
O — Harris 1 run (Hendricks kick)
H — Olsen 4 run (kick failed)
O — McGavin 72 run (kick failed)

Week 6 - Deseret News

2008-09-27T00:41:00.002-06:00

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Friday, September 26, 2008

Highland 50, Olympus 13
Muli Kinikini led the way with 10 rushes for 92 yards and two scores. While Nick orchard rushed for 74 yard also scoring two TD's. On the defensive side Latu Heimuli had two sacks, two tackles, and three assists, with Alex Olsen also getting one sack, two tackles, and three assist for the Rams victory.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL) FINAL
Highland (2-1, 4-2) 10 21 13 6 - 50
Olympus (0-3, 1-5) 0 0 0 13 - 13

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - Hicken 34 FG
HIGHLAND - Inukihaangana 12 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 4 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 25 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 2 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 2 run (Block kick)
HIGHLAND - Keller 13 run (Hicken kick)
OLYMPUS - Harris 1 run (Hendricks kick)
HIGHLAND - Olsen 4 run (Fail kick)
OLYMPUS - McGavin 72 run (Fail kick)

SL Tribune - Week 5

2008-09-21T22:40:00.002-06:00

Prep Football: Highland Rebounds In Defeat Of Granger

By Jennifer Gustavson
The Salt Lake Tribune

Article Last Updated: 09/21/2008 03:03:25 AM MDT

Rumors of a Highland meltdown? Completely unfounded.
At least according to coach Brody Benson. Sure, the Rams' tough loss to East likely had a few heads rolling, but after attending the Rams' walk-through on Thursday, it seemed all was quiet on the Highland front.
"You know, everyone is an expert," said Benson. "But we've moved on. We have to."
But if there is any trouble in the trenches, the players aren't letting on. After practice Thursday, team captain Sam Nielsen admitted the loss to East was hard to swallow.
"It was a tough loss. We handed it to them in the first quarter," he said. "No disrespect to them, they are a good team and fought for it, but we've got to finish a game through all four quarters."
During last week's practices, the Rams focused on improved defense in the red zone and playing with more urgency.
Highland proved it had digested the loss in its 34-8 rout of Granger on Friday.
Against East, quarterback Nick Orchard and the running back duo of Travis and Bridger Walzer carried the Leopards on their shoulders.
But the Rams pulled together a concerted team effort to beat the Lancers - and they didn't wait to make it happen. Highland uncharacteristically racked up all of its 34 points in the first half and relied on the staunch defense of Latu Heimuli, George Heimuli, and Travis Walzer to hang on for the win.
After suffering an injury in the first quarter against East, "spark player" Muli Kinikini was back to score the Rams' last touchdown of the game in the second quarter.

Salt Lake Tribune - Week 5

2008-09-20T02:44:00.001-06:00

HIGHLAND 34, GRANGER 8
Friday, September 19, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Granger	1-4, 0-2	0	0	0	8	8
Highland	3-2, 1-1	14	20	0	0	34

Game Summary:
Nick Orchard had ten rushes, 61 yards, one touchdown and was two for seven with 81 yards. Travis Walzer had two rushes, one reception and two touchdowns. Latu Heimuli had four tackles, four assists and a sack. Walzer defensively had one interception and four tackles. George Heimuli had three tackles and three assists.

    Scoring Summary:
   H — Travis Walzer 12 run (Hayes Hicken kick)
    H — Nick Orchard 65 pass to Walzer (Hicken kick)
    H — Inuki Haangana 4 run (Hicken kick)
    H — Orchard 34 run (kick failed)
    H — KiniKini 25 run (Hicken kick)
    G — Brent Philips 12 pass Jose Corona (conversion good)

Deseret News - Week 5

2008-09-20T02:41:00.001-06:00

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Friday, September 19, 2008
Highland 34, Granger 8
Nick Orchard had 10 rushes for 61 yards and a TD and was 2-for-7 passing for 81 yards and another touchdown. Travis Walzer scored twice as Highland defeated Granger. Jordan Crayton helped the Rams effort with 121 yards in punt returns, while Latu Heimuli had four tackles, four assists and a sack for Highland defensively.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL) FINAL
Granger (0-2, 1-4) 0 0 0 8 - 8
Highland (1-1, 3-2) 14 20 0 0 - 34

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - T. Walzer 12 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - T. Walzer 65 pass from Orchard (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Inukihaagana 6 run (Hicken kick)
HIGHLAND - Orchard 34 run (Fail kick)
HIGHLAND - Kinikini 25 run (Hicken kick)
GRANGER - Corona 12 pass from Phillips (success pass)

East Uses Big Plays To Take 2nd Straight Game In Rivalry

2008-09-13T04:38:00.001-06:00

East senior Taylor Swenson grew up attending East-Highland football games, and spent countless hours imagining how his senior-year game would go against the Rams.

Imagine how sweet it was for him to make some game-changing plays in one of the state's best rivalry games.

Swenson caught a touchdown pass, recorded an interception, and defensed two passes near the end zone in the final minute of the game to help the Leopards to a hard-fought 14-7 win over the Rams in the Region 6 opener for both teams on Friday night.

"It means everything," Swenson said. "I looked up to this game my whole life. Ever since I was little, I'd think of my senior year playing Highland. It's a big rivalry. It's exciting. It feels good."

It also felt great to the dozens of East fans who stormed the field as soon as quarterback Danny Tuai took the game's final snap in the victory formation. The celebration probably left a sour taste in the mouths of the Rams, but you can't really blame the East fans. Highland has owned East in the rivalry for many years, but the Leopards may be turning the tide, as they recorded their second consecutive win in the series.

It didn't look like that was going to happen early in the game. The Rams' running game looked unstoppable in its first two drives, as they gained 100 yards on their first 15 rushes. The last rushing play in the sequence was a 7-yard touchdown run by Bridger Walzer that put the Rams up 7-0.

East's offense wasn't faring much better. The Leopards' first six plays from scrimmage went for losses, and they accumulated minus-33 yards of offense in the first quarter.

"We looked like dog meat, didn't we," said first-year East coach Larry Eldracher.

That changed shortly after East stopped Highland on a fourth-and-short situation near midfield early in the second quarter. Junior running back Edward Fakahafua added some spark to the team's offense, and the Leopards drove 49 yards for a score. Tuai finished off the drive by completing a 25-yard touchdown strike to Swenson to tie the game.

Tuai put East in control on the first play of the second half. He ran a quarterback counter out of the shotgun formation, and split defenders down the middle of the field. He scored on a 65-yard run, and it was huge because the Leopards had just 21 yards of offense prior to the play.

"One play turned it around," Eldracher said.

Tuai looked to be in danger of being caught by Highland's Nick Orchard, but he found another gear while sprinting down the west sideline.

"I just saw an open hole," Tuai said. "I wasn't expecting to go all the way. The line did a good job, and we executed. I got lucky enough to score."

Highland had the ball in East territory on three separate possessions in the fourth quarter, but couldn't cash in. The first drive stalled when the Rams were flagged for a procedure penalty on a fourth down. East linebacker Jacob Morrison recovered a fumble on the Leopards' 25-yard line with 1:49 left in the game to end Highland's second chance. The Rams' final drive ended when East forced three straight incompletions, with Swenson and Tuai playing solid defense on the plays.

East's win wasn't a thing of beauty, but Eldracher said he'll take a win any way he can get one over Highland.

"Highland is a hard-hitting, rock 'em, sock 'em, well-coached team," Eldracher said. "I think our defense played with a lot of heart.

REGION: Region 06
GAME DATE: Friday, September 12, 2008

East 14, Highland 7
Danny Tuai provided the Leopards' two scores in the region rivalry game, including a 65-yard dash in the third quarter.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL) FINAL
Highland (0-1, 2-2) 7 0 0 0 - 7
East (1-0, 3-1) 0 7 7 0 - 14

SCORING PLAYS
HIGHLAND - B. Walzer 7 run (Gifford kick)
EAST - Swenson 25 pass from Tuai (Cota kick)
EAST - Tuai 65 run (Cota kick)

Friday Night Recap - Journey To The Top Blog

2008-09-13T04:34:00.001-06:00

Highland at East

The Leopards are only getting better, but are far from polished. The Rams are scrappy and effective when it counts, but ineffective and still plagued by penalties.

Still, Highland is a scary team. The Rams get their best work done late in the game--a pattern that played out in the final minute against the Leopards.
The Rams made a strong run at goal late, with three chances to connect in the end zone in the final minute from passes by quarterback Nick Orchard.
It worked for them last week. Against the Leopards, however, it proved to be too little, too late.

There is no doubt the Leopards can score. Danny Tuai proved that by throwing a 24 yard touchdown pass to Taylor Swenson
But its East's defense that will make East a postseason threat. JJ Fonua stepped up on the defensive line, pushing Bridger Walzer back on a fourth down to end the Rams' run to goal at the end of the first half.
Taylor Swenson also came up big for the Leopards, including a huge interception to stop another rolling Highland drive in the fourth quarter.

Coach Eldracher also wanted to publicly apologize for the near missed opportunity to shake hands with Highland after the game. After the win, East fans rushed the field, leading to the initial interference with the postgame tradition. Amidst the chaos, Highland started to walk off the field to the locker room.
"I don't blame them," said Eldracher. "I just want to apologize for our fans."

Leopards Hold Off Rams' Rally To Win

2008-09-13T04:33:00.002-06:00

East 14, Highland 7

By Jennifer Gustavson
The Salt Lake Tribune

What was East High's message to Region 6 after its 14-7 victory over Highland on Friday night?
Face the Leopards at home at your own risk.
However, trailing 7-0 heading into the second quarter, there weren't many smiles on East's sideline.
We rushed for a negative 27 yards in that quarter. That's not good, said an East statistician. Unless you're Highland. Then you love it.
But the Leopards didn't stay down for long. Easts Danny Tuai tied things up with a 24 yard pass to Taylor Swenson and opened up the third quarter with a 65-yard rush of to put the Leopards up by seven. That was all it took, as the Leopards held off Highlands final-minute rally to
hold on to the win over their cross-town rival.
While Eldracher couldn't [have been] more proud of [his] guys after the game, he was less than impressed with the Leopards play in the opening minutes.
We looked like dog meat in the first quarter, he said. I bet you were thinking, what other game could I go catch in the third quarter?
It all came together for East in the third quarter.
On the first play of the second half, Danny Tuai slipped through Highlands line and rushed in the 65-yard, game-winning touchdown.
I just saw the hole and went for it, said Tuai. It wasn't even me, it was the defensive line.

Highland continued its trend of playing great football under pressure. The triple threat of Nick Orchard and Travis and Bridger Walzer almost pulled off another last-minute victory in the closing seconds of the fourth quarter, but couldn't connect in the end zone.
I'm glad we don't have to play them again until the playoffs. They are a hard hitting, rock-n-sock em team, said Eldracher. I'm not sure if we really beat them, but Ill take it any way I can get it.

I knew [Highland] could score in a couple of seconds, said Tuai. I just played for red tonight.

East 14, Highland 7
Friday, September 12, 2008
Team W/L Record Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total
Highland 2-2, 0-1 7 0 0 0 7
East 3-1, 1-0 0 7 7 0 14

Scoring Summary:
H — B. Walzer 7 run (good kick)
E — Swenson 25 pass from Tuai (Kota kick)
E — Tuai 65 run (Kota kick)

Salt Lake Tribune - Week 3

2008-09-06T01:01:00.007-06:00

Prep football: Highland 13, Skyline 9

By George Artsitas
Special to The Tribune

Article Last Updated: 09/06/2008 02:53:24 AM MDT

With two minutes remaining, pinned in at his own 1-yard line and trailing 9-6, due mainly from mental mistakes, Highland quarterback Nick Orchard wasn't disheveled. He just had to take a quick glance back at the one word printed in bold on a banner behind him and remind himself of his team's motto: finish.
Orchard was able to put his best foot forward and define his team's motto, leading the Rams with his feet past Skyline, 13-9.

Orchard went silly in that last drive, running for an unprecedented 88 yards on four carries before connecting with Nata Fakahafua for the game-winning score.
For Orchard, the moment was unbelievable, especially with how the first three quarters went, "I can't believe it," said Orchard, "We couldn't move the ball until the last five minutes so it feels amazing. We weren't supposed to win that game but we all knew we could."

Highland was riddled and out-of-sync for the first three and a half quarters. The Rams botched snap that sailed over punter Muli Kinikini fingertips for a safety late in the second quarter. On top of the safety, Highland racked up 11 penalties for 80 yards including eight offside penalties.

The Highland comeback started in the mid-fourth quarter when, for the first time, Highland was able to find its offensive rhythm. The Rams broke the Eagles shutout with a 29-yard pass to Fakahafua, putting the game at 9-6 and making the crowd a factor for the first time in the game.

Skyline responded quickly to the threat, reaching the 1-yard line after a couple hefty runs from Caleb Latteier and Algernon Brown, but it was to no avail. The Rams clobbered Skyline on the goal line to force a turnover on downs and allow Orchard his time to shine.

* Nick Orchard ran for 88 yards in the Rams' game-winning 99-yard drive, on his way to 114 yards total.

* The Rams were killed by penalties the entire game, racking up 11 flags for 80 yards.

* Muli Kinikini also put in work on the ground, rushing for 112 yards on 14 carries.

HIGHLAND 13, SKYLINE 9
Friday, September 05, 2008

Team	W/L Record	Q1	Q2	Q3	Q4	Total
Skyline	2-1, 0-0	0	9	0	0	9
Highland	2-1, 0-0	0	0	0	13	13

Scoring Summary:
S — Wagstaff 39 pass to Taylor (Laganaeiri kick)
S — Safety
H — Orchard 29 pass to Fakahafua (kick failed)
H — Orchard 5 pass to Fakahafua (Hicken)

Deseret News - Week 3

2008-09-06T00:56:00.005-06:00

By Brad Plothow
For the Deseret News

Published: Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008 1:25 a.m. MDT

For about 44 minutes, Highland didn't appear capable of mounting a comeback. Bumbled plays and a plethora of miscues, sure, but a momentum-shifting comeback? Nah. Add a couple of extremely long drives to the Rams' recipe for a win, and Skyline had to feel pretty good about a 9-point cushion.

Apparently, the Rams needed a challenge to motivate them.

After three quarters of inept play on offense and special teams, Highland blossomed, scoring on back-to-back drives of 85 and 99 yards in the final four minutes. The latter campaign featured 79 rushing yards and 18 passing for quarterback Nick Orchard, who sent the home crowd into a tizzy when Nate Fakahafua hauled in his 5-yard pass in the end zone's left corner to give the Rams a 12-9 edge, their first lead of the game, with just 42 seconds left in the contest.

Orchard then intercepted a desperation heave from Skyline quarterback Kevin Wagstaff to preserve a 13-9 non-conference victory for 4A Highland (2-1) over the 5A Eagles (2-1). Improbable comeback complete.

"I didn't really think about being nervous too much," said Orchard, who darted for runs of 19, 20 and 40 during the game-winning drive in the final two minutes. "Just went out and started playing."

He may have been cool and collected during the miracle march, but his coach admitted to gritting his teeth a little.

"I was nervous, but I mean, we had to do it," Highland coach Brody Benson said. "It was basically do or die."

Orchard's heroics wouldn't have been possible if not for a gutsy stand by the Rams' defense. After scoring its first touchdown with 4:04 left to play, Highland tried for an onside kick, which was recovered by Skyline near midfield. Runs of 27 and 20 yards by Caleb Latteier and Algernon Brown, respectively, placed the Eagles five yards from paydirt with four downs to score. Four stuffed runs later, Highland took over on its own 1-yard line.

With only two minutes to cover the length of the field, Orchard engineered a drive that accounted for one-third of the team's total offensive production on the night. In fact, the Rams' final two drives, both of which culminated in touchdowns, represented almost two-thirds of their offensive output, including all but eight of Orchard's 88 passing yards.

"Looks like he settled down when he should have had a lot of pressure on him," Benson said of his senior signal-caller, who finished with 114 rushing yards on 12 carries and threw two touchdowns to Fakahafua.

Prior to their final two drives, the Rams punted five times, snapped the ball through the back of the end zone on a punt from their 14-yard line and muffed a scoring opportunity when Skyline took the ball from the holder's hands on a field-goal attempt. And even when Highland's option attack worked, the Rams' drives stalled out or where spoiled by penalties.

Wagstaff (8-for-15 for 99 yards) threw a 38-yard touchdown pass to Casey Taylor mere seconds into the second period. The Eagles relied heavily on Brown (85 yards on 17 carries), but they also struggled with consistency on offense, punting the ball on six of their nine possessions.

REGION: Nonregion
GAME DATE: Friday, September 05, 2008

Highland 13, Skyline 9
Nick Orchard ran for 79 yards in the last two minutes as part of a 99-yard drive to lift the Rams, capped off with a 5-yard touchdown pass to Nate Fakahafua.

TEAMS (REGION, OVERALL)

FINAL

Skyline (0-0, 2-1)	0	9	0	0	-	9
Highland (0-0, 2-1)	0	0	0	13	-	13

SCORING PLAYS
SKYLINE - Taylor 38 pass from Wagstaff (Laganiere kick)
SKYLINE - Team 0 safety
HIGHLAND - Fakahafua 29 pass from Orchard (fail kick)
HIGHLAND - Fakahafua 5 pass from Orchard (Gifford kick)

The Herald Journal - Week 1

2008-08-31T15:41:00.002-06:00

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

2008-08-31T15:32:00.001-06:00

• 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

2008-08-29T23:25:00.005-06:00

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

2008-08-29T23:21:00.003-06:00

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

2008-08-24T03:34:00.006-06:00

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

2008-08-24T03:29:00.009-06:00

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

2008-08-21T00:02:00.002-06:00

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

2008-08-20T23:53:00.003-06:00

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

2008-08-19T08:58:00.010-06:00

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

2008-08-17T01:58:00.006-06:00

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

2008-08-13T23:31:00.003-06:00

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

2008-08-08T01:09:00.004-06:00

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

2008-08-08T01:05:00.006-06:00

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.

Highland High Rams 2008 Football Schedule

2008-07-29T16:21:00.005-06:00

HIGHLAND FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
Sat 08/23/08 Highland at Mountain Crest (at Utah State University) 12:00 PM
Fri 08/29/08 Highland at American Fork 07:00 PM
Fri 09/05/08 Skyline at Highland 07:00 PM
Fri 09/12/08 Highland at East 06:30 PM
Fri 09/19/08 Granger at Highland 07:00 PM
Fri 09/26/08 Highland at Olympus 07:00 PM
Fri 10/03/08 Cottonwood at Highland 07:00 PM
Fri 10/10/08 Highland at Cyprus 07:00 PM
Wed 10/15/08 West at Highland 07:00 PM
Thu 10/23/08 Murray at Highland 07:00 PM

This is Highland Football's 2008 schedule. Highland plays two tough opening games, and they're both on the road. Plus, they face, what is projected to be, a very solid Skyline team, at home.
Their Region 6 opener will also be a test, as they face East, at East's field. East has some solid players, and are led by Steve Tuikolovatu, among others. East's question mark is their coaching, with the departure of Whitehead, how will East respond?
Highland should not overlook Granger! Generally, once you start overlooking an opponent, you are in for a very big letdown.
Olympus, is the team that East's ex-coach, Whitehead, told the Salt Lake Tribune, he expects to be the dark horse, in Region 6. I wouldn't be surprised, as Olympus, is a traditional football power, and I don't think that they are too far gone, from returning to their glory days.
Cottonwood is solid! They have a veteran quarterback, and running back. In fact, Sofele (RB), is one of the best in the state, garnering 1st Team All-State honors. Cottonwood's question mark, is its, traditionally solid defense. They do have a solid defensive back, in Hosea, and others, so, defensively, they should be good.
Cyprus lost loads of talent, but they should be competitive.
West is in the same boat, as Cyprus, they had some key departures, but I do expect West will compete in Region.
Murray is another team that should not be overlooked. They're traditionally in the bottom echelon of Region 6 teams, but they are attempting to turn things around, and they do have David Archuleta, as a good luck charm.
That said, Highland does have the talent to run this table, and if they do, that's a HUGE if, they will be sitting "pretty", when the state playoffs roll around.

2006 Highlights - Part I

2008-07-29T01:38:00.006-06:00

I finally got around to it. I have put together Tevita's, first, sophomore season, which was 2006, varsity highlight reel.
Check it out!
There will be another sophomore highlight vid coming soon, so look for Part II.
Tevita played effectively, as a starter, on the defensive line, and gave teams fits, with his blend of speed, and aggressiveness.
Offensively, he proved to be a reliable and effective backup, at running back.

Deseret News Region & Team Previews Schedule

2008-07-28T12:55:00.005-06:00

The Deseret News has released it's schedule for Utah High School football Region and individual team previews. Region 6, Tevita Kinikini and Highland High's Region, preview will be published August 13th.
Tevita Kinikini & the Highland Ram's preview, will come before, on August 8th.
Anyhow, feel free to read the Deseret News Region & Team previews schedule here.

Football is Punish or Be Punished

2008-07-24T01:09:00.002-06:00

This is a clip from Tevita Kinikini's 9th grade season, and although it is old, it is still HIGHLY representative of the way he plays the game of football.
Happy viewing!

Deseret News Pre-Season Predictions

2008-07-24T00:39:00.006-06:00

The Deseret News has come out with its pre-season polls. They have Tevita Kinikini & the Highland High Rams ranked at #5, in the Utah high school football 4A rankings. They've also, in a related article, come out with some pre-season predictions, they are basically the same article, under different titles. Happy reading!

Salt Lake Tribune Blurb

2008-07-18T11:13:00.005-06:00

In their, Journey To The Top Blog, the Salt Lake Tribune, crack high school reporting team, offers a little blurb on Tevita, and his team.
In the article, they still refer to Tevita as a defensive end, a situation that, before the season starts, will be remedied.
Read about it here: Highland High Rams Football.

Welcome!

2008-07-18T01:12:00.000-06:00

This blog is dedicated to all things #3, of the Highland High School Rams, Salt Lake City, Utah. His name is Tevita Kinikini, and he plays running back, and linebacker (hopefully). At the time of this writing, Tevita may be playing defensive end, and, although he has proven effective on the defensive line, he should be playing linebacker or defensive back, which are more natural positions for his size and skillset.
We will cover the progress of his football season this year (2008), which is his senior season, and in the process we will be talking alot about his upcoming games, opponents, opposing players, the Highland Ram football team, and some of Tevita's teammates.
In the meantime, sit back and enjoy some of the highlights from his junior season: