By Greg James |  [email protected] 

In May, when West Jordan High School’s head football coach Ron Halbert took over the Jaguars, he wanted the team to be successful. This season has far exceeded his original plans.

“When we started, we only had 41 kids interested in playing,” Halbert said. “Kids were thinking about leaving to other schools. I had no idea we could get to this point. Many of the seniors trusted us and stayed.”

Halbert put together a coaching staff of more than just great football minds. He wanted leaders off the field too.

“We wanted to be here for the kids and be able to help them if they want to play at the next level and make sure that they have a great experience and fun time playing high school football,” Halbert said.

Halbert is impressed with the seniors and the impact that underclassmen have made on the team.

“We have had some sophomores and freshman that have made the difference and playing a lot of time,” he said. “I know our kids are good. We wanted them to believe in themselves.” 

The Jaguars played their first six games without a defeat. Despite losses to Mountain Ridge in overtime and Bingham away from home, they finished the regular season with a 7-2 record. 

“It has been a great season; we have been ranked as high as No. 9,” Halbert said. “The loss to Mountain Ridge included a few mistakes on our part and a big 55-yard field goal by them. We cannot be disappointed.” 

Senior quarterback Boston Farmer has become a leader by example.

“[Farmer] does not lead by talking,” Halbert said. “He does what is needed on and off the field. The kids follow him. He is a great kid, a 4.0 student a scholar-athlete. I think if he got the opportunity to play after high school he would. He is a three-sport athlete and well rounded. His accuracy is amazing.” Halbert said.

Farmer has completed 54 percent of his passes for 1383 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also ran for five more. 

Carter Baldwin has been a favorite target for Farmer. He has caught 29 passses and six touchdowns. Octavian Heflin became a threat on the ground. His explosiveness opened opportunities in the passing game for Farmer and Baldwin. Heflin carried the ball for 1083 yards for the team this season.

Halbert thought the offensive line would be important for the team to be successful this year.

“Going in we thought our line play would be important,” Halbert said. “They have done a remarkable job. I think we have won the games in the trenches. Our defense and offensive line has been dominating.”

On defense, the Jaguars only have two seniors.

“For us to have no experience on defense coming in, it is incredible,” Halbert said.

They have allowed only 18.3 points per game, the fourth fewest in the state’s 6A classification.

“For us to be winning and dominating on defense with these young kids is fun,” Halbert said. “We have a great group coming back next year. The future looks bright.” 

West Jordan hosted Clearfield in the first round of the state football playoffs on Oct. 22 and came away with a 27-0 victory. In the second round, they lost to region rival Bingham 37-7.