Dandy Dozen: Michael Pettus (with VIDEO)

By JARED MACARIN

jaredm@nwfdailynews.com

NAVARRE - Things have slowed down considerably for Michael Pettus.

Not in the dynamic style that Navarre running back plays, just how he sees the game. And after a sophomore season that saw him break out to be among the top backs in the area, he is confident he can build on those numbers this fall.

"I'm excited and looking forward to Friday nights," said Pettus, who is a 2008 Daily News Dandy Dozen selection. "Everything for me is better. I can make reads better and this year I am more explosive, faster and stronger."

As a sophomore, Pettus - who stands just 5-foot-7 and weighs 165 pounds - had 626 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns. He was also a threat in the passing game, hauling in 28 passes for 264 yards.

According to new head coach Chad Lashley, Pettus seems even better entering his second season on the varsity squad. And he has no worries about Pettus' small stature.

"He has a greater understanding of what we are doing scheme-wise," Lashley said. "Last year we knew he could be a dynamic player for us, but we were a little worried about him being physical as a small guy. But he plays a lot bigger and physical than he is.

"Pound for pound he is the strongest person on our team."

And Pettus will be looking to use that strength, along with increased speed and confidence, to find the end zone even more this time around. Navarre has added a wrinkle to its offense this season, a move that involves Pettus playing quarterback.

"There was a little shock (when I was told)," Pettus said. "I was unsure of what would happen, but I'm a lot more confident now."

Lashley said the possibility of having Pettus taking the snaps adds "a different dynamic to our offense."

But no matter where he is lined up, both coach and player are expecting a big fall.

"I'm a lot more confident in myself than last year," Pettus said. "I'm ready to take a leadership role. I can't wait for the season."