Jake Spitzlberger threw for 2,856 yards and rushed for 738 yards last year as Bear Creek’s starting quarterback.
Not bad for a junior who on the surface didn’t appear to fit the role of the strong-arm quarterbacks that Bear Creek coach Tom Thenell has groomed over the years. Under 6 feet tall and just 170 pounds, Spitzlberger had the confidence of Thenell that putting him behind center wasn’t a mistake.
“He has been capable of big things for years. I think it was just a case where Jake was mature enough to handle the position for us,” Thenell said. “This is a tough spot being the quarterback here. It makes you a high-profile athlete.”
Following in the footsteps of Ricky Rahne, Justin Holland and Garrett Gunberg hasn’t been a problem for Spitzlberger.
The Bears shared the Class 5A Jeffco League title with Columbine and Arvada West last year. Spitzlberger led Bear Creek to a berth in the 5A state quarterfinals with a 9-3 record. His running ability is something Thenell said he had to get used to since Bear Creek’s quarterbacks have normally been pocket passers.
“I see a serious comfort level with him,” Thenell said. “He knows what he is doing.”
Spitzlberger’s first varsity start at quarterback turned out to be one to remember with the Bears pulling out an overtime victory against Mullen. Aromous Robinson caught a two-point conversion in the corner of the end zone from Spitzlberger for the win.
“I am kind of surprised with what I did last year,” Spitzlberger said. “That win against Mullen was a big confidence boost for me.”