As a freshman a season ago, Central-Phenix City's Traveon Samuel was trying to learn the system and adjust to playing football against players who were older and more experienced.

A year later, the Red Devils' offense is going through him.

He began the year playing primarily wide receiver but has emerged as a versatile threat that can line up at tailback, receiver and even play quarterback in wildcat packages.

As a result, he racked up 192 yards and four touchdowns rushing and another 102 yards receiving in a 33-31 victory Friday over East Coweta.

For his efforts, he is the Ledger-Enquirer's Football Player of the Week.

Already being recruited by several premier colleges, Samuel still is focused on helping his team reach its ultimate goal this season. He spoke Monday with the Ledger-Enquirer to discuss his blossoming role in the offense as well as the future for his team.

Question: Are you just a naturally versatile player, or is this something you work on in practice and in games to be able to succeed from so many places on the field?

Answer: When I play, my mind is blank. It's basically just going out and doing my thing. When I play, I just let my talent do the work. … I have to practice hard, work out hard in the weight room. (I have to) do my schoolwork, first of all, and then I can get on the practice field and go hard.

Question: How does it feel to know that you've become such a big part of your team's offense?

Answer: It's a good thing, really, because my freshman year, I didn't really contribute that much. … But this year, I have developed a whole lot.

This is a portion of the interview. For a video of the full interview, go online to www.ledger-enquirer.com.

David Mitchell, 706-571-8571