New Silverado linebacker key to strong defense

By Jared Harmon

Thursday, Sept. 18, 2008 | midnight

When Marcus Mata'u moved from Hawaii to Southern Nevada for his sophomore year of high school, he expected to see significant playing time on the Silverado football team's defense.

But because of transfer rules he was forced to play a year of junior varsity ball. Now, as a junior, the linebacker is a key component in what could be the best defense in the state.

In three games the Skyhawks have allowed only 19 points and Mata'u's thunderous tackles have been a big reason why teams have not been able to move the ball up the middle to avoid Division-I prospects Keenan Graham and TJ Alofipo.

"Marcus is fast enough to play defensive back but he hits hard," Silverado coach Andy Ostolaza said. "The kids always like to see who hits harder — Marcus or Alofipo. He's all about the collision. He likes to hit people. Sometimes I have to get on him to wrap-up."

The 5-foot, 11-inch, 203-pounder is trying to make the most of his playing time.

"It was awkward having to sit out for a year," Mata'u said. "I felt like I could have played last year. It was kind of crazy but I'm ready now. I'm pick up on stuff and doing what coach says."

Ostolaza said there was never much question about how well Mata'u would fit into the program, but there was a question of where. His size, strength and speed made him a fit at virtually every position as he's already seen time at linebacker, fullback, long-snapper and wide receiver.

"Our defense is tight. I'd say the best in the state," Mata'u said. "I'm playing with Division-I players who all know how to play the game. I just fit in where they need me and try to stay aggressive."

Mata'u, who has two sacks and 13 tackles and Alofipo — who verbally committed to Hawaii this summer — said he expects the junior to continue contributing and improving as the season progresses.

"Marcus is fitting in perfect," Alofipo said. "He's got quick feet. He hits hard and he knows how to find the ball. He's already one of the better linebackers in the state and he's only a junior."

While Mata'u was not a part of the Skyhawks team that lost to Las Vegas High in the Sunrise Regional semifinals last year, he still shares his teammates' desire to break past that second round this season.

"I think we are a state championship team," Mata'u said. "We can go real far if we play to our potential. We have to keep practicing hard and never take plays off."

Jared Harmon can be reached at 990-8922 or [email protected].