De La Salle's New QB Brayden Knight Set to Lead Spartans' Charge!
Brayden Knight takes the helm as De La Salle's quarterback in their season opener against Lakeland, a formidable rival.
De La Salle's New QB Brayden Knight Set to Lead Spartans' Charge!
As the high school football season kicks off, De La Salle-Concord is buzzing with excitement, especially with Brayden Knight stepping into the role of starting quarterback. The 6-foot-3, 185-pound senior takes over from Toa Faavae, who has moved on to the University of New Mexico. Known for his steady play and strong arm, Knight is tasked with leading a team ranked No. 8 by High School On SI against the formidable Lakeland, whose rich history includes nine state championships.
De La Salle’s head coach, Justin Alumbaugh, has high expectations for Knight, praising not just his athleticism but also his decision-making and leadership qualities. „SI.com reports that Knight has been voted team captain, a role he embraces by focusing on distributing the ball effectively and boosting his teammates’ morale.
A Legacy of Excellence
The football program at De La Salle is nothing short of legendary, boasting an enviable history that includes a 151-game winning streak from 1992 to 2004—still the longest in sports history. From 1991 to 2021, the Spartans didn’t lose to a single team in Northern California, and their sustained success culminated in 14 consecutive state championship games from 2006 to 2021, winning seven of those contests. This makes the upcoming season all the more crucial as they look to build on their recent North Coast Section Championship victory.
Brayden Knight isn’t just stepping into a quarterback role; he’s stepping into a heritage that emphasizes hard work, teamwork, and technique. These pillars have brought the Spartans consistent success, including their most recent NCS championship against San Ramon Valley on November 17, 2023. The commitment to excellence is tangible, and Knight is eager to play a part in continuing that legacy.
The Road Ahead
As the Spartans prepare for their season opener against Lakeland, the outlook is bright. The team is noted for its remarkable speed, anchored by standout players like Jaden Jefferson, who holds the California 100-meter record. The offensive line also brings a new dimension to the game, featuring three players over 300 pounds—an unusual but exciting first for the Spartans. Andy, let’s not forget that Knight’s mother runs a food preparation business that proves valuable in keeping the team well-fed and energized.
Brayden Knight is not only focused on the mechanics of the game but also on how he can motivate his teammates. He relishes the control and pressure that comes with playing quarterback, a position he has embraced since his youth football days. “The pressure is part of what I love about it,” Knight stated, showcasing his understanding of the responsibilities he carries.
With the first game of the season just around the corner, everyone at De La Salle is eager to see how Knight leads the Spartans on the field. If history is any guide, they have the talent, spirit, and coaching to make this a season to remember.