SANDY — The quarterback and receiver positions return standout players for the upcoming Jordan High football season.

Last year defensive coaches devised double coverage schemes for Scotty Ebert and Cody Raymond, but both emerged with an array of incredible catches and all-state honors. Both are back this fall. Ebert has committed to Brigham Young University, and Raymond is itching "to get on with it" and see if it is possible to cover both of them together.

And don't forget Sean Taylor returns, having garnered first-team all-state honors at quarterback. This trio provides the heart of the Beetdigger offense. And heart is what it is all about, according to Raymond.

"My will for the ball is my best strength," he said. "You gotta want it more than the DB." Still only a junior, Raymond added, "I just like it when they give me the ball." He also talked about how the players like to hang out together. "We have a lot of chemistry on this team."

Ebert is blessed with physical strengths. He runs the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds and is a stalwart on the track team. He is more comfortable talking about the strengths of others rather than himself and wanted to put in a plug for head coach Alex Jacobson.

"We have a really good coach," he said. "He knows how to be a head coach and he is a players' coach."

Taylor is the coach on the field. He often improvises and relies on his athletic ability. He emphasized that Jordan will feature a balanced offensive attack. The strong-armed quarterback exudes confidence about his entire receiving corps.

"We go five or six deep," he said and mentioned Kenneth Damron and Darren Carter. "And Houston (Cassita) can come out of the backfield and get the job done."

An exceptional athlete, Taylor maintains a low-key approach. "I need to be calm and don't let the emotions get the best of me."

His coach also has observed improvement in his leadership abilities and his decision-making.

Standing a compact 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 180 pounds, Taylor manages a 345-pound bench press. Despite his bulk and muscle, he believes his strengths lie in his speed and quickness.

"I have quick feet," he said, "and I do better on the run. When I am moving I feel more relaxed."

Knowing that the offensive line will be young and inexperienced, his quick feet and movement skills may come in handy this year.

Ever confident, Taylor replied, "If our offensive line is (perceived as weak), we will be just fine."