High school football: Jordan Beetdiggers 2009 preview

SANDY — Operating a spread offensive attack takes timing, precision and a lot of hard work in preparation. With all those things needing to come together, the Jordan Beetdiggers are confident they have put in the hours necessary for success.

"I think we threw together and ran routes an hour or two almost everyday, seven days a week," said wide receiver Cory Hunt of he and fellow receiver Braden Hammond with quarterback Alex Hart. "We worked hard to try to get better. I feel like I am a better player because of all the work we put in."

Hunt, Hammond and Hart — somehow don't they need to add one more H-named player to the group to become the 4H Club? — know how important it is that they are all on the same page on every play. Otherwise, they can leave Hart out to dry.

"There are reads we need to make on every play in our offense," said Hammond. "If we aren't seeing the same thing and turn a different direction, the defense gets a nice easy interception and everybody blames Alex, even if it might have been one of our faults."

Hart was a first-team All-State quarterback last season, throwing for 3,200 yards and 26 touchdowns while rushing for another 800 yards and 10 TDs. He expects those type of numbers to continue, but he also said there is another reason why the team has a good chance for success.

"We've got good camaraderie," Hart said. "We are really starting to come together as a team. We no longer worry about any individual numbers. We just want to go out on the field together and get the job done."

While the 'Diggers have many returning players, a new coach is in charge. Erik Kjar, who had been the offensive coordinator, took over as the head guy. He has kept the offense the same considering the team was the third highest-scoring team in 5A at over 32 points per-game, but he is revamping the defense with a more classic 3-4 look.

"It is surprising how many teams are running that defense now," he said. "But with the way offenses are going, it makes a lot of sense."

Defense will be a key for the team this season. Last year, the team struggled on that side of the ball, giving up at least three touchdowns in 10 of its 12 games.

"We are just going to have to work hard and be together as a team and things will take care of itself," said defensive back Austin Day.