Saunders helps Olathe North sprint to opening win

OLATHE, Kansas - Adonis Saunders does not like to waste time. He does everything fast. So, it should be no surprise that he started his senior season by sprinting to a 77-yard touchdown on his first play from scrimmage.

Click on the video to the left to hear from Saunders

"Everyone hopes for a good senior season. It's your last season playing high school football. So, I'm just coming out and doing what I do."

Saunders did not slow down much after that opening carry. He rushed for 160 yards on six carries in a 29-22 victory over Shawnee Mission West. Even Olathe North head coach Pete Flood walked away impressed.

"Not surprising, but, at the same time, any time a kid has six carries for 160 yards that's rather unique."

Saunders has a unique skill, speed. As a sophomore, he won the state 100 meter and 200 meter dashes. A pulled hamstring kept him from defending his state crowns. However, Flood made sure to give Saunders a chance to exhibit his elite speed in the opening game.

"We did a good job of setting the edge a couple of times. He does have some speed. When he gets to the edge, he can do some good things."

The opening game served as a bit of a coming out party for Saunders. Entering the season, the Eagle drawing the most attention was Victor Simmons. Like Simmons, Saunders is drawing interest from several Big 12 schools including Kansas and Kansas State. He says he has not made up his mind about his playing future. His focus for now is on winning a second straight state football title.