St. Rita senior running back Doniven Campbell wants to help the team however he can.
If that means filling in at cornerback in a crazy Week 6 comeback against Montini, he’s on board.
If it’s spelling star running back Brandon Johnson Jr., give him the ball.
Or if he does get a chance to start, Campbell is going to run with it.
Literally.
Campbell ran 25 times for 209 yards and four touchdowns on Oct. 2 as St. Rita defeated Leo 42-20 at St. Xavier in a Catholic League crossover.
“It’s not tough,” Campbell said of being a backup. “I’m more of a team player. I knew my chance would come like it did now.
“Brandon is my boy. I’ve known him since we got to high school. I always wanted him to get the ball. I knew my opportunity would come some way down the line.”
Senior quarterback John Fennell threw for 114 yards and two touchdowns for St. Rita (4-3), connecting with senior Vinny Stubitsch (14-yard TD) and junior T.J. Burgos (36-yard TD) for a score each.
Senior Jimmy Sheehan had an interception on defense.
Johnson, a Lindenwood recruit, is a three-year starter at running back. He missed the Leo game with a hand injury.
In stepped Campbell, nicknamed “Soup” by his teammates. He scored on runs of 2, 3, 73 and 2 yards.
Campbell was quick to credit his blockers up front, seniors Bobby Rusch and Greg Zaber and juniors Izaius Dukes, Nick Connolly and Nick Olson.
“I was very excited. I was ready for it tonight,” Campbell said. “It’s all about the offensive line. Once they block for me, I get it going. A couple hits and I go from there.”
Coach Martin Hopkins said Campbell has been an integral part of the team’s success.
“Soup filled in at corner late against Montini and did a really good job,” Hopkins said. “He’s a jack of all trades. If we need a guy, we count on Doniven. He works his butt off and is behind some good guys, but he can produce as well. I’m glad he got the opportunity.”
Campbell, a 5-9, 170-pounder, first played football in eighth grade when he was a defensive end.
“I was a dog. I’m a dog now,” Campbell said with a laugh. “I’ve played defensive end, switched to defensive back and then back and running back.”
St. Rita has games remaining against Benet at home in Week 8 and on the road at Nazareth in Week 9.
“We started off with a tough schedule. We fought as hard as we can each game,” Campbell said. “We put our best foot forward. Now, getting this win, we want to keep it rolling going into the playoffs.”