Not intimidated by big challenges

Brett Knief had the unenviable task of taking over as quarterback of the Don Bosco juggernaut this season.

For openers, the junior from Ramsey had to deal with all the pressure that goes along with being the focal point of a team that is always under the microscope. And, to make it just a little harder, he was doing that while replacing a popular All-State quarterback in Matt Simms.

A challenge? You bet. And Knief lived up to it and more, earning The Record's Offensive Football Player of the Year honor because he actually helped the top-ranked Ironmen -- 12-0 and another Non-Public Group 4 title -- have a more dangerous all-around attack.

"He was the linchpin of our offense," said Don Bosco offensive coordinator Nunzio Campanile. "He was able to go out there and we didn't miss a beat."

And while Knief was blessed with a stellar collection of running backs, he also showed great creativity and an ability to pick apart a defense. He threw for 1,573 yards and 13 touchdowns while running for 605 yards and another nine touchdowns.

Mike Teel and Matt Simms were outstanding quarterbacks during Bosco's run to national prominence, but Knief is the best all-around quarterback the Ironmen have had since Steve Levy in 2001.

"He has the ability to be a threat on every play," Campanile said.