ST. GEORGE — Nate Carter came into the 2006 season-opener as a known quantity in the southern end of the state, but his reputation and his ability will be spreading rapidly.
The Dixie High School tailback scored four touchdowns, one on an explosive 64-yard run, and added two sacks and two tackles for losses defensively as the Flyers handled visiting Springviille 35-8 on Friday night.
Carter, a 5-foot-9, 195-pound junior, ran for 194 yards on 23 carries, and quarterback Tyler Hukill threw just enough to keep the Red Devils guessing.
Defensively, the Flyers were impressive, sacking Springville quarterback Nate Fullmer four times and hurrying the senior signal-caller.
Despite the Flyers' efforts, Springville was in the game throughout the first half, as Sean Merkley busted through Dixie's kick coverage for a 92-yard kickoff return and trailed 16-8 at the half.
That optimism changed quickly.
On the second play of the third quarter, Carter found a seam off-tackle, cut right and ran away from the Springville defense for his 64-yarder. He culminated a short drive just three minutes later with a 1-yard plunge to give Dixie a 29-8 lead midway through the third quarter.
Dixie showed its mettle defensively, twice stopping Springville inside the Flyers' 5-yard line. The Flyers then went 99 yards on 20 plays with Carter scoring with a 1-yard plunge.
Steve Nelson showed some offensive flashes for Springville, gaining 51 yards on 14 tough carries.