Written by: Brandon Baney
Ririe’s football program has been on an upward trajectory the past couple of seasons. After finishing with one win in 2021, coach Josh Huntsman led the Bulldogs to two wins, and several near-misses, in his first season.
Although the program has made significant progress, the always difficult Nuclear Conference obscures how much Ririe has really improved. Perennial powers Firth and North Fremont are as strong as ever, and if fans are measuring their team by how they stack up against those foes, they’re missing the forest for the trees.
Instead, focus on Ririe’s 25-21 win over American Falls, a Class 3A program. Or several close losses: 30-20 to Soda Springs, 16-0 to Malad and 14-6 to Wendell. With several players back from last year’s squad, perhaps those close losses will turn into victories this year.
Leading the way is senior fullback/defensive end Aaron Martinez. In Ririe’s tight Double Wing formation, the fullback is one of the most crucial players. “We have lots of team speed on offense,” Huntsman said. Junior Rafe Newton and sophomore Kolter Lewis figure to be busy in the backfield, while junior center Ryker Harris will lead the blockers up front. Senior Bryson Boyd pilots the offense at quarterback.
Martinez also sets the tone for Ririe defensively. “Our kids fly around and love contact,” Huntsman said. “We will focus on swarming to the ball.” Senior Kyle McMurtrey picked up All-Conference honors at linebacker a year ago, but has made the switch to strong safety. Senior Landon Nelson will help fill the void at linebacker, as will promising sophomore Cooper Brown.
Overall, excitement for football in Ririe is peaking. “We have more kids out than we have had in the past,” Huntsman said. “Kids are understanding their roles and that they ‘have value.’