DYLAN SWARTZ, Central Catholic quarterback: Football Player of The Week

SMALL SCHOOLS

It's not often Central Catholic turns to its quarterback to lead the team to victory, but the call went out Friday night and Swartz responded in true form.

"Hilmar had more guys in the box trying to stop the run than we could block," Central coach Roger Canepa said. "The good thing about our offense is that we can run or throw. Dylan came through."

The 6-foot-3-inch, 190-pound junior -- who got his first varsity start in last year's Division III state bowl game -- completed 16 of 23 passes for 258 yards and two TDs in a 23-7 win over Hilmar. The 'Jackets had four shutouts in their first six games.

"Dylan is doing a great job of reading coverage and he continues to mature," Canepa said. "He's got a strong arm and he's going to throw some picks. I told him I understand that, but that he has to be able to overcome mistakes, showing the confidence his teammates need to believe in him."

-- RICHARD T. ESTRADA