There aren’t many more compelling motivational factors than playing time and one’s place on the team. But players must perform to maintain their starting positions.

 For now, it appears that Chris Danz has a nose in front in his battle with Dalton Reinhart for playing time as the Cedar Crest football team’s quarterback.

 On Friday at Cedar Crest High School, Danz was the most valuable player on the field, during the 48th annual Cedar Bowl. With his passing proficiency and decision-making, the junior signal-caller led his Falcons to a 28-6 triumph over rival Lebanon.

 Danz was on top of his game throughout, completing 12 of 16 pass attempts for 184 yards and three touchdowns. Danz’s first touchdown strike – a six-yarder to Brayden Koehler – late in the opening period staked the Falcons to a 14-0 lead.

 Then, a couple of snaps later, Danz collaborated with end Chris Rios for a 54-yard catch-and-run that pushed Cedar Crest’s advantage to 21-0. On the opening drive of the second half, Danz found Cole Miller with a 39-yard fade which made the Falcons’ lead nearly insurmountable.

 – Jeff Falk