BY CARRON PHILLIPS
The Salt Lake Tribune
First published Aug 04 2011 12:08AM
Updated Aug 4, 2011 12:08AM
Sandy • Alta head coach Bob Stephens admits to being nervous.
After 14 years at Alta, he is finally the man in charge. His anxiety has nothing to do with how he thinks his team will perform. Stephens is more concerned about dealing with the media.
"It’s been a while since I’ve done this, and my wife keeps telling me not to say anything stupid," he said.
Tyson Blackner and Bryan Engstron are doing all they can to make sure their head coach’s apprehensions are never focused on the offense. After seeing some time last year, Blackner will take on the responsibility of being Alta’s new starting quarterback. Engstron, whom Stephens labels as a psycho in the weight room, looks to have a standout year. The explosive tailback is looking forward to what the new season could have in store.
"I think Coach Stephens came at the right time," said Engstron. "Coach Hamilton did more for this program than anybody else could have, but I think Coach Stephens is ready to take over and we’re ready to propel ourselves to a level that we’ve never been to before."
While Stephens inherits a team that is loaded at the skill positions on both sides of the ball, the Hawks’ season could be determined by how well their offensive and defensive lines progress throughout the year.
Last year » 4-7. Lost to Northridge in the first round of the 5A playoffs.
Key returners » Safety Austin Lee and LB Rhett Sandlin. Lee has already committed to Utah; Sandlin will be at BYU next year. Look for these two to be a big part of the Hawks’ defense.
Player to watch » QB Tyson Blackner. After starting a few games as a junior, Blackner will be Alta’s new triggerman. He led the Hawks to the championship game of the Ute Shoot.
Biggest hole » The Hawks’ offense will be explosive, as they are extremely talented at the skill positions, but their offensive could be shaky. Blackner will have to deal with a lot of first-time starters in front of him this season.
Need to know » After a 4-7 season, Alta is still considered a favorite for a deep playoff run because of its skill positions and offensive capabilities. But if the O-line can’t buy Blackner some time, things could get interesting.
http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/tribpreps/52311496-190/alta-blackner-coach-stephens.html.csp
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