Eleven to watch in 2011: Tanner Klinefelter
In our continued attempts to stave off the summer lull -- and to keep this blog something resembling fresh -- we bring you a new series: The 11 YAIAA football players you need to watch in 2011. Each day for the next week and a half, we'll feature another of the league's most promising talents. Tanner Klinefelter, QB, Red Lion In his first full season as a starter, Klinefelter flashed all the leadership and quarterbacking skills one could ask for. He completed 61.9 percent of his passes, easily the best in the YAIAA. He also threw for 1,938 yards, 22 touchdowns and only five picks. Klinefelter has good arm strength, to go along with decent size (6-foot-2) and plenty of poise. He has a knack for making the right decision. Klinefelter held up well throughout Red Lion's district playoff run last season. While the Lions leaned heavily on their running game during that span, Klinefelter still contributed a solid 97 quarterback rating in four playoff games. His numbers in the District 3-AAAA title game loss to Cumberland Valley were particularly impressive: 16-for-21 for 183 yards. Klinefelter has received some Division I feelers, according to Red Lion coach Pat Conrad, and he figures to receive Division I-FCS and Division II attention, as well. After what he showed last fall, I wouldn't be surprised to see Klinefelter have a big year. 2010 statsPassing 146-236 (.619), 1,983 yards, 22 TDS, 5 INTs, 111 QB rating Rushing 140 carries, 297 yards, 2.12 avg., 5 TDs