LJ FB: Rice

By Ed Piper

Finn Rice hasn't gotten a lot of recognition for his key role on La Jolla's defense this year.

But his teammates and coaches know the dedication and hard work he brings to the team every day.

Of his role as one of the Vikings' captains, the 5'9" free safety responds modestly, when asked, saying it is "helping the younger guys play more aggressive(ly) and perfect their craft."

Last season, many of the starters on the defensive side were young and inexperienced, including Rice in his junior year. Head Coach Tyler Roach, only in his second year running the program, was still doing basic construction to form a culture and an approach.

This was after La Jolla had had three different coaches within a span of 13 months, when Matt Morrison came in for a year, then took the head position at Francis Parker, his alma mater, through no devious plan of his own.

Rice, not a star, is a cog. Someone Defensive Coordinator Charles Bussey and teammates can depend on.

"I haven't been utilized on offense this season," the senior says without rancor, "so my focus is on defense."

There, he is positioned behind the linebacker core that gets a lot of attention. At free safety, he is the Vikings' last defense, literally, when an opponent throws behind the coverage, or breaks through the earlier lines of defense.

It's kind of like a battle in the Civil War: front lines (the linemen), secondary (defensive backs), with commanding officers behind (the coaches calling plays from the sidelines).

Asked to identify a teammate who has grown a lot, Finn says, "Calvin Hyytinen. He played his first year of football last year and made his way to start on varsity this year as a cornerback.

"He has been a game-changing player on defense and a leader as well."

Making the most of his compact, wiry 140-pound frame, Rice works within the team scheme. He has added 30 pounds since his freshman year.

"I think my overall athleticism and speed have improved the most over the years," he responds, again when asked in what facet he has developed.