Riverton takes another step

RIVERTON — Get ready for Episode 3.

During coach Mike Miller's first two seasons at Riverton, the Silverwolves have taken several steps in the right direction, including a 7-4 record in 2005. Now we're about to find out whether the squad can take another huge step forward and contend for a league championship.

That's the hope for Miller, who took over at Riverton after a very successful tenure with Olympus High.

"I think we could contend (for the region championship), I really do," said Miller. "It's a small region, so there's not a lot of room for error."

Riverton will kick off its season tonight when it hosts Taylorsville at 7.

Miller wants to see his program improve each season.

"The program needs to get better every year," he said.

So far, so good. Riverton went 2-9 in 2004 before recording a winning season last year. The Silverwolves started out 4-0 before finishing 7-4 and earning a trip to the postseason.

Question is, will Riverton be better again this season? Entering the preseason, it appears the Silverwolves will be.

"I think it's a little better this year," said Miller.

Asked whether the Silverwolves will continue to run the Wing-T offense, Miller joked: "We're still trying to run it."

The Wing-T offense is based on effort and execution, and Riverton's squad has grown accustomed to it.

"They know it pretty good now," said Miller. "There's still things to clean up, but they know it pretty well."

Senior Joey Schrader looks to lead both sides of the ball. Schrader, a quarterback and free safety, was named to the Region 3 MVP list for his performance on defense a year ago.

This season, he'll start at quarterback, in addition to his role on defense.

"Joey's a quiet leader," said Miller. "He does a good job of leading by example. He's one of those kids who you can't overcoach."

What does Schrader think about taking the reigns of the offense?

"I like defense better, but quarterback's fun," he said.

Schrader saw action in about three games last year, and he'll look to build on that experience during the preseason, beginning tonight.

Riverton Silverwolves 2006 football preview