Blake Studivan Big Valley Chr. running back: Football Player of The Week

After topping 1,000 yards last fall, Blake Sturdivan dedicated his offseason to getting bigger and faster, with an eye toward raising his rushing numbers and winning a league title during his senior year.

He followed through on his goals, coach Larry Shimel said, adding 15 pounds of muscle and getting faster. Those improvements helped Sturdivan run for 1,598 yards and 20 TDs this season, as the Lions won the Harvest Christian League crown.

"Blake has dedicated himself to the weight room even more than previous years," said Shimel, whose Lions host Bradshaw Christian on Saturday in a playoff opener. "Blake gives all of his success to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and his offensive line -- Anthony Tuss, Allen Mattox, Zack Kane, Alex Dickerson, Josh Martin, and Stratton Agrella.

"He could play at a higher level because he has the speed, strength and durability to play."

-- RICHARD T. ESTRADA