High school football: Logan Grizzlies 2009 preview

LOGAN — With just three returning starters and a senior class that hasn't experienced much success through the years, expectations aren't very high for the Logan Grizzlies this season.

Well, for people outside the program anyway. The Grizzlies are approaching the 2009 season like any other, and hope to be a factor in the region and state title races as they usually are.

"Not many people expect much from us, but we're making high expectations for ourselves," said Logan quarterback Tyler Stevens.

Some positive thinking should help the Grizzlies as they return to 4A this season, and rejoin Cache Valley rivals Mountain Crest and Sky View in Region 5. The timing may not be the greatest for Logan to move up a classification, as the program would surely love to be loaded like it was in 2005 or 2007 when it won 3A championships.

But it is what it is, and the Grizzlies are ready to compete with larger schools in 4A.

"Time will tell," said Logan coach Mike Favero. "Same dimensions, same football, same goalposts, same rules."

Stevens hopes to enjoy the same success previous quarterbacks have had under Favero.

The Grizzlies have a rich quarterbacking tradition and now it's Stevens' turn to try and lead a prolific offense. Stevens sat behind Jeff Manning the last two seasons, and Favero has confidence in him.

"He's a real football savvy guy," Favero said. "He's got a real high football IQ. He's a great leader, a real competitive kid. He really knows our stuff well. He knows the game and he's a tough, tough kid."

Stevens isn't in awe of the chance to play quarterback at Logan. He said he's ready for the opportunity.

"Coach will put me in the right positions to make plays," Stevens said.

Stevens is one of Logan's leaders, along with returning starters such as running back Dalton Birky, center Taylor Lawlin and safety Jackson Everton. Birky took advantage of his opportunities last season, averaging more than 7 yards per carry.

"He's a tough little runner," Favero said.

Two other players expected to contribute for the Grizzlies are receiver Billy Phillips and defensive lineman Boo Phillips, a transfer from Sky View.

Outside of those players, the Grizzlies are unproven and inexperienced.