Emotions are high. The team is very excited and me, I can't wait – Kahi Neves
PROVO — Replacing Britain Covey isn't easy.
The former Timpview standout did everything for the T-birds over his career. State championships and being named the Deseret News' Mr. Football are maybe the most notable things Covey brought to the team, but it was much more than that according to coaches and players.
"Covey was 1A, 1B and 1C among the players we lost off last year's team and had to replace," said Timpview head coach Cary Whittingham. "He was such a luxury to have for us as coaches. He was a leader and just did things you can't really replace with anyone. You just hope to find a guy to play quarterback who is adequate and, fortunately, Kahi Neves is coming along."
Indeed, Neves, who transferred from Brighton in the offseason, had his work cut out for him from the start. But after some initial struggles, Neves seems to be peaking at the right time.
During Timpview's 49-27 semifinal win over Highland, Neves, who is committed to Utah, put up Covey-like numbers. Altogether he threw for 266 yards and four touchdowns, numbers that paired nicely with his 97 yards and a touchdown on just 16 carries.
"He's young as far as being exposed to the quarterback position, especially here. But he's managed to improve and he's peaking at the right time," Whittingham said. "He's been able to string some good games together here late and hopefully he can do it one more time for us."
Next up for Neves and Timpview is the 4A state championship game against East Friday at Rice-Eccles Stadium. It's a game that could provide the T-birds with their fourth straight championship and provide plenty of excitement for the community and players.
"Emotions are high. The team is very excited and me, I can't wait," Neves said. "We've been working so hard all year and I definitely want to come out on top this time."
Neves, unlike anyone else currently playing for Timpview, has experienced coming up just short of a championship. Playing for Brighton last year, Neves' Bengals fell to American Fork in the semifinal round.
"I don't want to experience that again," Neves said. "It's unreal. It's crazy to have the opportunity we have here and to be a part of it again here at Timpview and we want it. We want it bad. Hopefully I can play well and do my part."
In order to help him do his part, Neves has relied a bit on the guy he replaced throughout the season.
"He's one of the best to ever play, and I talk with him from time to time and he always gives great advice," Neves said of Covey. "It's been hard coming in to replace a guy like that, but fortunately I've been able to improve and play with some unreal athletes who help make it easier."
Although Neves has the ability to beat a team with both his arm and legs, much like Covey did, his manner in doing as much differs significantly. While the smaller Covey electrified with quicks, Neves, who's 6-foot-4, is able to be more physical while yielding a stronger arm.
"I try and do whatever it takes for my team to win," Neves said. "I'm the new guy here, so I just want to help keep up the great Timpview tradition. It's such an honor to be a part of this."
Email: bgurney@desnews.com
Twitter: @BrandonCGurney