John Raffel
Sports Scene
Willie Dillard has demonstrated how talented a quarterback he is for Lansing Sexton the past two seasons.
Now he’s hoping the Big Reds can contend for a state title before the season comes to a close.
The senior quarterback is in his second year as the starting signal-caller for Lansing Sexton. He started out the season 10 of 15 for 161 yards against Jenison. He had close to 400 yards combined his first two games.
In his third game, Grand Ledge frustrated Dillard, who was only 12 of 23 for 118 yards.
“I feel I did pretty good for my first time on the varsity level,” he said of the 2010 season. “I could have done better, but we had a good season.”
When it comes to his duties as a quarterback, Dillard indicated that he’s a better passer, but that he can do some running.
“I try to get the ball out quick,” he said. “Our receivers are pretty good as long as I can get them the pass. I can still deliver a good ball.”
Dillard indicated he has improved as a ball carrier from last year. He had a busy off-season to get ready for this year.
“I’ve been in the weight room and did a lot of work in the off-season,” he said. “I’m more comfortable back there now.”
During track season, Dillard ran sprints while also lifting during the off-season. He’s hoping that combination will help him on his quarterbacking skills for the football season.
Dillard wants to improve on his completion percentage this season. He expects that the Sexton offense this season will be 50-50 running and passing.
“Last year, there was more running than passing,” he said. “I think the coaches feel more comfortable with our passing.”
Favorite receivers for Dillard have included running back Anthony Goodman, fullback Kyren Kemp, and wide receiver Herman Mason. He’s been using all three extensively.
Despite the 1-2 start, Dillard was optimistic about his team’s potential.
“I think we can go far if everyone plays up to their potential,” he said.
Dillard is focused on the 2011 fall season, but he hopes the opportunity pops up for him to play elsewhere after his high school career comes to what he hopes will be a highly- successful ending.