Less is more for Raft River senior Bridger Barrett.

Last year as a junior, Barrett was asked to carry a huge offensive and defensive load. At times playing both quarterback and linebacker was overwhelming.

This season, Barrett is still the focal point to the Trojans' offense, but now in the single wing he has less to think about and can let his natural athletic ability shine.

"That's what kind of got me last year, I'd start thinking too much and I would stop having fun," Barrett said. "We're all having more fun this year. We have a lot of energy and excitement and team unity."

Most of Barrett's 913 yards and 21 touchdowns have come by taking direct snaps out of the single wing. He has more weapons surrounding him this year, which allows him to take a lesser role offensively and he can focus on what he does well: running the football. He's averaging 9.5 yards per carry.

"The linemen have come a long ways from last year. They're doing an awesome job. There are holes everywhere," Barrett said.

Barrett's versatility allows him to line up all over the field. He's also caught six passes for 93 yards and a touchdown, and has completed 4 of 7 passes for 145 yards and another score.

Defensively, Barrett has recorded 49 tackles - seven for a loss - two fumble recoveries and one interception.

"He's been a tremendous leader for us this year," said Raft River coach Randy Spaeth. "Sometimes kids can get a tendency to just focus on themselves, but he really gets excited when his teammates do great things. He's always there patting them on the back and is always the first to give credit to everybody else for what he's accomplished."

Barrett has led Raft River to a 6-1 overall record (5-1 Snake River Conference) and hopes the Trojans can return to the Class 1A state playoffs after their one-year hiatus.

"It's redemption, pretty much," Barrett said. "We let a couple games slip away last year and we knew we couldn't do the same thing this year. We're right where we need to be to go to the playoffs. If we play disciplined and have a lot of energy then I think we can do a lot of great things, if we believe in ourselves and come together."

Ryan Howe may be reached at 208-677-8786 or rhowe@magicvalley.com.