Taylor Patten runs for three touchdowns as Walkersville wins 55-0

Taylor Patten made the most of seven carries Friday, rushing for 160 yards and three touchdowns in Walkersville’s 55-0 home win over Catoctin.

The sophomore’s performance continued a productive return to running back after he spent his freshman season primarily playing receiver, The Frederick News-Post reports.

Walkersville had an established senior back in Colton Amoriell last year, so coach Tyler Thompson and his staff found another way to get Patten on the varsity field. The move gave him experience while keeping another capable athlete in the lineup.

Now back at the position he played growing up, Patten has ranked among Frederick County’s rushing leaders in yards and touchdowns, according to the newspaper.

Against Catoctin, a 69-yard run in the second quarter set up his first touchdown, a 9-yard carry. He also finished a 14-yard touchdown run in that quarter by lowering his shoulder and driving into the end zone.

Thompson credited both Patten’s field vision and the offensive line. He said the back has been effective at choosing running lanes, finishing carries and producing long gains.

Patten described agility as a central part of his game, while noting that he can use contact when necessary.

Even during last season’s stint at receiver, there were signs of his future role. His first varsity touchdown came on a 35-yard run against Catoctin almost a year before Friday’s performance.

The backfield changed after Amoriell graduated and fellow sophomore Kai Sawi transferred to Linganore shortly before the season. That helped create the opportunity for Patten to return to running back.

Patten told the News-Post that his freshman goal had been to make varsity and earn playing time. This season, his expanded role has made him a major contributor to the Lions’ ground game.