Snitker helps out Washington in multiple ways

CEDAR RAPIDS – There is an irony in the way Reid Snitker is relayed offensive plays from the Cedar Rapids Washington football coaching staff.

Head coach Paul James is positioned in the press box, so he calls something and delivers it to assistant Frank Scherrman via headset. Scherrman audibles it, if you will, on to Snitker.

Most of the time, the quarterback sprints over to the Warriors sideline to receive the play in a more timely manner. You know, because it's not like he ever does any other running during games.

'He doesn't leave the field very much,” James said.

It's just shy of amazing what Snitker has been able to accomplish for the top-ranked Warriors. He's unlike virtually every other quarterback in Class 4A.

The senior not only leads an offense that averages 42 points per game, he plays every down defensively at free safety. If that's not enough on his plate, he regularly returns punts.

It's old school … or small school.

'I actually knew I was going to have to do this. The coaches told me before the season started,” Snitker said. 'I knew I had to get into way better condition for this year. I don't think it has really affected me too much.”

Snitker was forced into Washington's starting QB role on the eve of fall practice last season when intended starter Rocky Lombardi moved with his family to West Des Moines. Rocky Lombardi has had a fine sophomore season as West Des Moines Valley's varsity starter, with the Tigers still in the 4A playoffs as well.

Despite precious little preparation, Snitker accounted for 2,000 yards and 20 touchdowns passing and rushing and was named a first-team all-Mississippi Valley Conference player and Metro player of the year. With a year of QB experience under his belt, the anticipation was for a huge offensive season for Snitker, but it has been defense where he has made more of a mark.

He was a first-team all-district pick on defense, where he has three interceptions (one returned for TD) and two fumble recoveries. He is fourth on the team in tackles.

Offensively, he still has accounted for 20 touchdowns and has improved his touchdown-to-interception ratio to 12-3. But the rushing and passing numbers overall are down.

Washington (11-0) hosts Iowa City West (7-4) in a 4A playoff quarterfinal Friday night at Kingston Stadium.

'Yeah, that's been a little weird,” Snitker said. 'But I think a lot of it is because our offensive line has picked it up and our run game has been so good, they haven't needed me as much offensively this season. I've had a lot more time to focus on defense.”

Washington has relied heavily on the thunder-lightning tailback combo of Johnny Dobbs and Tavian Patrick to great effect. Fullbacks Connor Vincent and Caleb Smothers also have provided tough yards from the fullback position.

When the Warriors need something threw the air, they have game-breaking types in Isaiah Nimmers and Landen Akers. Snitker has been able to sit back and manage this talent.

Not to mention play a more vital role on defense and special teams. It's exhausting but well worth it.

'I love it,” he said. 'I'd stay on the field the whole time if I could. Even more if I could. I don't feel tired at all. I feel fine the entire game and after games. It has surprised me a little bit, to be honest.”

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