LAYTON — Quarterback Alex Hart and the Jordan Beetdiggers put up some monster numbers in their 52-26 win over Layton on Friday night.
But the most important stat they accounted for was probably zero. After turning the ball over four times in their season-opener, the Beetdiggers handled the ball with care, committing no turnovers in their blowout victory over the Lancers.
"Zero is a much better number than four," said first-year Jordan coach Eric Kjar.
There were plenty of other numbers that pleased Kjar.
Hart put together a spectacular performance, completing 25-of-34 passes for 479 yards and six touchdowns. The only Jordan touchdown that Hart did not account for was an interception that defensive back Austin Day returned 24 yards for a score.
Hart was looking for a little redemption after committing a key turnover in Jordan's loss to Northridge last week and he certainly got it.
"This was way fun," Hart said. "This was more than just a win. This was a huge confidence booster for us."
Hart completed passes to six different receivers, including one that went to a lineman on a batted ball. He had a hot hand throughout the game, as on Jordan's first play from scrimmage he tossed a 65-yard touchdown pass to receiver Cory Hunt.
Jordan built a 21-0 lead early in the second quarter and was in control for most of the game. Layton had some momentum in the third quarter after getting within 31-18 on a 7-yard touchdown run by Adam Bunting. Jordan, however, answered with a six-play drive that culminated with Hart throwing a 39-yard touchdown pass to Steve Morgan.
"I was pretty (mad) after last week," said Kjar, who earned his first win as a head coach. "This is a big weight off our shoulders. The kids have been working their butts off in practice. They deserved it."
Braden Hammond caught 10 passes for 174 yards. Morgan had five receptions for 144 yards and Hunt caught five passes for 113 yards. The three receivers each hauled in two touchdown receptions.
"This is probably the best receiving corps we've had since I've been here and that's saying something because we've had some really good receivers," said Kjar, who's worked as Jordan's offensive coordinator the last four seasons. "When a team tries to man us, we'll try and take advantage."
The Beetdiggers' defense, although it gave up three of Layton's four scores, made some key plays by forcing two turnovers.
"We had a good game all around," Hart said. "Can't ask for anything better."
Layton was led by Bunting, who had 15 rushes for 158 yards. He also returned a kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter.
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