Dixie wins in exhibiton

ST. GEORGE — Preseason All-America J.T. Diederichs didn't disappoint in the first game of his sophomore season as the Dixie State tailback rushed for 169 yards to help the Rebels to a 47-9 victory over the semi-pro Ogden Rhino-Raiders.

"I was a little disappointed. I felt the fans wanted more," Diederichs said. "But it was a pretty good opener."

The Rebels racked up 305 yards rushing including a 63-yarder by Diederichs, a 78-yarder by his backup, Glen Milner, and a 71 yard TD by quarterback Brandon Satcher.

"We need to be able to pass the ball better," Dixie State head coach Greg Croshaw said. "We were a little too one-dimensional. But a lot of guys, especially the sophomores, stepped up."

Pine View High grad Derek McAllister started the game at quarterback, but was just 4-of-12 for 32 yards. Corey Slater relieved McAllister, but had just one completion.

Dixie State led 20-0 at halftime, but got a boost on an 88-yard kickoff return to start the second half by Quinton Lopez.

Dixie State picked off Ogden quarterback Dave Stireman five times, including one by Wayne Alofipo that the freshman linebacker returned 18 yards for a TD.

The Rebels play Air Force Prep next weekend.

— Andy Griffin