(Dedrick Young breaks free duing the fourth quarter. Photo by Jim Willittes/maxpreps.com)

Bringing senior running back Dedrick Young down is just as difficult as getting a read on him.

But the reason why he doesn’t show much emotion and tends to give short answers when Young’s interviewed is simple. He’s as humble as they come.

What does speak volumes is Young’s determination. Good thing he brought plenty of that Saturday in the Division II state championship game 26-14 victory for Centennial at Sun Devil Stadium.

Young played every down on defense and scored the touchdown that helped Centennial regain the momentum it lost just as quickly as it reclaimed in the fourth quarter. Two impressive touchdowns by Liberty junior Alex Jackson within a 2-minute span left Centennial clinging to a 20-14 lead with 8:15 remaining in the game.

At that point, wide-eyed, shocked expressions dominated the faces of Centennial’s players, coach Richard Taylor. But never fear when Young is near.

On the ensuing drive for Centennial after Jackson scored his second touchdown, Young busted free for the longest run of his season, a 75-yard score that helped wrap up Centennial’s fourth state football crown.

“The line blocked great for me. Then the wide receivers helped me, and I just shot through the hole,” Young said. “It shifted the momentum of the game.”

Young delivered the biggest blow to Liberty’s hopes of winning its first title, but Centennial’s defense, specifically its defensive line, thwarted Liberty’s offense from really getting on track.

Defensive end Chris Jules finished with four sacks, and Centennial’s secondary had two interceptions, one of which led to a second quarter touchdown. Centennial’s offensive line also had a big hand in helping Young rush for 192 yards on 25 carries and two touchdowns.

Left guard Marshal Nathe pulled and took out two defenders to open the lane Young used to score the fourth quarter touchdown that gave Centennial the cushion it needed to secure the win.

“I found two victims, and I just took them out,” Nathe said.

Knowing that Young’s power run game and linebacker duties would take its toll this year, Taylor kept his senior leader from carrying the ball as much as last year.

Being the consummate team player, Young also did what was best for his team, Taylor said. That selfless approach is what truly makes him a special player and person.

“It’s an honor to block for him (Young),” Nathe said. “I’ve never blocked for someone who works so hard.

“You’re nothing but encouraged to just go block your heart for that guy. I’d do anything for him. He’s the most humble guy you’ll ever meet. He’s one of the best in the country, and you would never have guessed it. He’s a friend. He’s a brother. He’s family.”

(Centennial won the Division II 2014 state title. Photo by Jim Willittes/maxpreps.com)