Kevin Clifford/Nevada Appeal
Like many seniors, Taylor Silva wants to go out with a bang. That attitude has led to a better work ethic on and off the field this year.
Silva, who starts at one of the defensive end spots, is a big reason why Carson boasts a 3-2 record entering tonight's Sierra League game (7:30 p.m.) against Wooster at Carson High School.
"I think I'm having a good season," Silva said. "I'm learning a lot more technique-wise this year. I need a little more time to improve.
"My pass rush has improved and knowing what to do when somebody tries to down block on me or reach block on me."
Defensive coordinator Bob Bateman agreed.
"He has quick hands, and he's very good at shredding blocks," Bateman said. "He seldom gets hooked. He's a very good technician."
Silva doesn't get nearly the attention of some of his other teammates, but game in and game out he goes about his business in a quiet, efficient way.
"He's played really well for us," said Blair Roman, Carson coach. "He's kind of an unsung hero for us I think. He's been our most consistent defensive end this year."
Silva finds himself going up against either tight ends or tackles depending on what the opposition is doing and what Bateman has called defensively.
"His first job is the run," Roman said. "What he does well is get off blocks and into his pass rush. He's not leading us in sacks, but he has a lot of pressures and hurries. Against Reed, he had good pressure (two sacks) and he knocked down a pass. Against Manogue, a couple of times he had nice pressure.
"The second thing he has to do is get off he ball. He is strong, stronger than last year. He's worked hard in the weight room. At times last year he would get physically overpowered. This year he's a lot stronger."
Silva said he's benching 30 more pounds this year and his squat weight is up 60 pounds.
"My freshman and sophomore years I did what I was told (in terms of weights)," Silva said. "When I got to varsity, I realized I had to do more. I work out all the time now."
While Silva quietly progresses on the field, he is getting better in the classroom, too.
"My freshman and sophomore year I didn't get very good grades," Silva said. "My motivation wasn't very high. It's all about work and not being too lazy. I decided to step it up so I could support my teammates."
Silva slipped up briefly last year and was held out of the Wooster game. He attended summer school and thus far has been performing well, according to Roman.
"So far it's been very positive," Roman said. "He's really come a long way. I'm pleased with his attitude. I couldn't ask for anything more."
Silva said that the coaching staff has been very supportive, and if players are slipping in a subject and have an opportunity to get help after school, then the player gets the help and comes out late to practice.
Quarterback Blake Plattsmier has helped Silva in math, and the senior defensive end said it's easier to get help from his peers at times.
"Friends can explain things better sometimes," Silva said. "Sometimes it's easier to understand.
"They (my teammates) are there for me. They make sure I keep up with my work. I don't want to disappoint them."