Spectators received their first look at the 2016 Emery Spartans football team Friday evening in the annual Black and Gold scrimmage contest at the high school in Castle Dale.

Working in preparation for the season opener against Summit Academy on Friday, Aug. 19, the Varsity and underclassmen teams alternated quarters. In the end the Black team finished on top by a final score of 21-7.

“I thought both sides of the ball played really well, the only concern is that we had a lot of turnovers,” said first year head coach Jon Faimalo. “We’re just not that good of a team to have that many turnovers. Other than that, I thought our kids played hard on both sides of the ball.”

The scrimmage was held in front of a large crowd at the football field and delivered several exciting moments. One of the more intriguing story-lines is the development of third year starting quarterback Zac Jorgensen, who helped lead the Black team to a victory.

“We’ve got to get him throw with a little bit of confidence. There were a few balls that he just kind of lobbed up,” Faimalo said of his quarterback. “Physicality wise he is getting better. He is stepping up in the pocket, and his pocket presence is a lot better than it has been in the past.”

Defensively Emery showcased their new 4-2-5 scheme, which is very similar to a 4-4, but adds flexibility. Traditionally scrimmage games provide high scoring affairs, but both defenses looked good and kept the opposing offenses off balance.

“We get a little bit of different look in how we align,” said Faimalo. “Not necessarily a different look, its more personnel and alignment. One thing we have to get better at on defense is covering, and we’ll find out how much better we’ve got on Friday against Summit Academy.”

It was apparent that Emery will boast a large group in the trenches on both sides of the ball as three year starters Koby Butler, Logan Labrum and Ty Mecham return. Chase Jewkes will also return to the offensive line after a successful junior campaign in 2015.

Friday Emery travel to Summit Academy for the fourth meeting all-time with the 2A school. In the previous three meetings the home team has won each time, giving Emery a 2-1 edge. Last year the Spartans won a 57-44 shootout, scoring 36 points in the first half.

You will be able to listen to Friday’s game on KOAL 103.9 FM and 750 AM, while also viewing a video feed of the contest at KOALITV.com.