Last year Jason McBrayer was the backup quarterback for Canyon del Oro. A very good team. An undefeated 4A-I state title team. That was fine. Going along for a championship ride.

But he ached for the chance to play more and contribute the best way he knew how -- by playing. He has received that opportunity this year and hasn't disappointed.

 McBrayer and his Dorado teammates have one final challenge taking on Saguaro for the 4A-I title Saturday afternoon at 3 at Sun Devil Stadium.

"Jason has come a long way and took away any question we had at quarterback this year," Canyon del Oro coach Dustin Peace said. "The maturity and leadership he's displayed, he and some of our other players waiting to get their chance. That's what makes coaching so rewarding. To see the steps they take.

"Last year I don't think he had the confidence and discipline. He has developed it this year."

McBrayer, a 5-foot-10, 175-pound senior, doesn't have the astounding numbers of his counterpart, Saguaro signal caller Teddy Ruben, but those figures are still way above average. McBrayer is second on the team in rushing with 874 yards/14 touchdowns and when called upon to throw has been productive as well. He's completed 60 percent of his passes for 1,159 yards and 16 touchdowns. The Dorados throw about eight times a game.

"I've felt great this year and love playing with these guys," McBrayer said. "It was hard not getting to play much last year, but I think I was able to learn some things. I was excited to get the chance this year."

With offensive stalwart Ka'Deem Carey battling injuries much of the year, there have been several games CDO has required offense from others. McBrayer provided it.

Against  Queen Creek, a 4A-I semifinalist, McBrayer rushed for 167 yards. When the Dorados faced Nogales he ran for 113 yards and passed for 203. He totaled 238 yards rushing and passing against Flowing Wells. He scored or passed for at least two touchdowns in each game, contests CDO did not have Carey available.

When CDO battled Saguaro back on Oct. 1 with Carey, it was a big night for Carey with 274 yards rushing. McBrayer chipped in with 114 yards, running for two scores and passing for another.

"Our opponents have to defend 25 (Carey) and 2 (McBrayer)," Peace said. "When they're both in there, it's very tough."

McBrayer is thankful CDO has one more game to play. Last week's narrow 28-24 triumph over Cienega nearly finished his career. He didn't want it to end on a sour note.

"Last week I threw three interceptions," McBrayer said (his only three interceptions this season). "That left a bad taste in my mouth so I need to turn it around this week. I'm glad to have the opportunity. We're glad to have the opportunity."