HARWELLPHOTO.COM
The SportsInk.com Athlete of the Week for Nov. 21-27 is Buchtel senior quarterback Steve Parker. In helping to lead the Griffins to the Div. III state title game, Parker has accumulated nearly 2,000 yards in total offense.
The SportsInk.com Athlete of the Week for Nov. 21-27 is Buchtel senior quarterback Steve Parker.
In helping to lead the Griffins to a 52-8 Division III state semifinal win over Marlington, Parker tallied 312 yards of total offense and had a hand in four touchdowns (three passing, one rushing).
Despite breaking his left (non-throwing) hand in Week 9, Parker has continued his brilliant play, being sidelined for one game when Tyler Jones filled in admirably.
His favorite target is his step brother Corey Smith, who caught two touchdown passes against the Dukes. Parker is a four-year contributor for the Griffs and has accounted for 31 touchdowns in 2010.
He has played with a cast on his left wrist and hand.
“He has not let that injury slow him down. He has been great,” Buchtel football coach Ricky Powers said.
Parker has passed for more than 1,200 yards this fall and rushed for over 700 yards in leading the Griffins to the Division III state championship game this Saturday (Dec. 4) against Columbus Bishop Watterson at Massillon's Paul Brown Tiger Stadium.
“Our team is led by our 22 seniors and we know the job is not done,” Parker said.
Against Cardinal Mooney in the regional championship all Parker did was run for an 84-yard touchdown for Buchtel’s first touchdown and then throw a go-ahead score in the second half to Smith.
“That was a great game but we thought we would win,” he said.
Against previously undefeated Marlington, Parker tallied 205 yards passing and 107 rushing. Buchtel led 52-0 at one point in crushing the state's No. 1-ranked Division III team.
Steve Parker
Senior
Buchtel High School
Football
TV: “Bet”
Movie: “Love and Basketball”
Pizza: Pepperoni
Home Cooking: Macaroni and Cheese
Class: Math
Bucket: Make sure I am successful