For Jefferson High School, it has been a team effort this season as they sit in a tie for first place of the Tri-County South. However, there has been one player in particular for the Rockets that has been pushing them towards their goal of a section championship.

Houston Guesman, the starting quarterback of the Rockets, has been able to get it done both in the air and on the ground for the Rockets. For Guesman, this has been something he has loved to do  since he was five years old.

“I played C-Team Flag Football, and the coach that got me into football at a young age still helps us today, so thank you coach Barnhart,” Guesman said. 

Guesman got his chance at the quarterback position last season after Cole Jones graduated. However, he had his ups and downs, as something that many don’t know is Guesman went through the season playing with a broken hand, although Guesman did not let this stop him.

“Just staying focused and being mentally and physically tough, I just always think there is going to be something trying to hold you back in life so you always just have to do your best,” Guesman said.

Guesman was still able to finish his junior season with 908 passing yards and 11 passing touchdowns. He would also tack on six touchdowns on the ground. 

His numbers have only gone up with the extra year of experience. Through nine games this season, Guesman has tallied up a total of 21 passing touchdowns while also averaging just over 154 passing yards per game.

“Before the snap, he does a good job of identifying what the defense is gonna give us,” said Caleb Gallagher, Jefferson’s assistant offensive coordinator. “And with his athleticism, he’s able to extend the play and look down field if the defense plays good coverage.”

Although his stats show his skills through the air, his stats show he has been getting done on the run game as well. Guesman leads the team in rushing yards with 1,031, averaging 9.5 yards per carry and 13 rushing touchdowns. 

“He didn’t really lower his shoulder last year, but he got bigger and stronger along with still being elusive. So he can run you over or make some moves on the defender.”

The Rockets are coming off a 54-20 win over Avella as they now look to face arguably their toughest opponent yet in the California Trojans. When it comes time for someone to step up, one have to look too far for Jefferson.

“He’s the quarterback of the offense and the quarterback of the defense,” said Shane Ziats, Jefferson head coach. “He’s the first one to the field every game and practice, and is always getting his teammates focused and pumped up.”

“Knowing that this could be it, this could be the last time I touch the field,” Guesman said regarding what keeps him motivated at this point in the season. “I have love for this game and ever since a young kid, I’ve always said I want this to be my career, so it’s life for me. This is what I always wanted to do.”