OREM — Bountiful running back Tui Auva'a steps onto the field at 180 pounds and stands at least 6 feet tall.
But the Braves' primary offensive weapon carries his size rather well.
Well enough to net close to 300 all-purpose yards with four touchdowns in Bountiful's 38-19 victory at Timpanogos Friday night.
"He doesn't need much room," said Bountiful coach Larry Wall. "It's our job to try and get him involved as much as possible."
Auva'a touched the ball a total of 14 times on offense but made the most of each. He finished with 13 carries, 106 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
A third touchdown came when he came out of the backfield to score on a 63-yard catch-and-run touchdown pass.
And on special teams, the senior netted well over 100 return yards, including a back-breaking 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown that blew the game open in the fourth quarter.
"I'd use him on defense if I could," said Wall. "But, he needs a break here and there."
The contest didn't start out well for Bountiful as Timpanogos jumped out to an early 13-0 lead in the game's first 10 minutes.
Bountiful rebounded in the second quarter when Auva'a followed up a field goal with a 27-yard touchdown run just before the half.
The Braves quickly blew the game open in the second half with two long touchdown passes in the third quarter to take a 24-13 lead.
The Timberwolves took a brief shot at a comeback with a 12-yard touchdown catch by Brett Zobell on the first play of the fourth quarter.
It was the second TD throw by Timpanogos QB Jared Harper, who added a third score on a 1-yard drive.
But the air was let out on the ensuing kickoff when Auva'a returned the ball nearly untouched for the score.
It was a rude welcome for first year Timpanogos head coach Frank Bramall in his team's first game at the Class 4A level, having dropped down from 5A.
But for Wall, it's an excellent start for a team that promises to be much improved over last year's 2-7 squad.
"I don't think we got anybody really seriously hurt," said Wall. "We got a good look at some guys, and I'm pleased to come out of here with a win."
Bountiful quarterback Steve Matheson threw for two TDs.
The Braves will travel to Viewmont next week, while Timpanogos attempts to rebound against against cross-county foe Provo.