When he talks - especially about football and the growing importance of his role at tailback for the Rogers Eagles - he does so in short sentences and hushed tones. But around here, he's known as more than the quiet, focused guy.

Larkin's the playmaker - give him the ball and he'll put on quite a show.

"He's a dangerous one," Rogers coach Jeff Walker said. "If we block for him, he's one of those kids that could rush for a lot of yards in this offense. He's the real deal at tailback."

Larkin's proven himself to be just that, leading the area in rushing with 1,111 yards and scoring 11 touchdowns. On average, he's good for 10 yards every time he touches the ball.

Asked to explain his penchant for producing a first down every time he's handed the ball Larkin simply replies: "It's speed, ability and athleticism."

The Eagles need that kind of production - and more - now more than ever. Larkin's the lone ball carrier in the backfield with much experience after fullback Chance Marek went down with a season-ending knee injury two weeks ago. And with Rogers' season likely on the line Friday night against longtime rival Academy, the eyes of both sides will be on No. 35.

"He feels a little more pressure now that Chance isn't there," Walker said. "He feels like he's got to be that leader."

The way Larkin sees it, all that added pressure doesn't fall exclusively on his shoulders. He's just the guy that'll have the football tucked under his arm the most.

"It's everybody," Larkin said. "We've got to do something."

Ever since he ripped off a 35-yard touchdown on his first carry of the season, Larkin's been the one the Eagles have looked to for that something. More often than not it's been a long run, usually started because once Larkin gets into the open field, he's oh, so tough to bring down.

"He can do it all," Walker said. "He can spin, he can run you over . . . he does a little bit of everything for us."

rschneider@temple-telegram.com