Stuart Presents 2-Way Threat

As a defensive end and receiver, Michael Stuart was one of the most productive two-way players in Southern California.

He recorded 11 1/2 sacks, including three in the Southern Section Division IV championship game victory over Ventura St. Bonaventure, and caught 71 passes for 1,250 yards and 18 touchdowns this season.

In leading Westlake (14-0) to its first unbeaten season, The Times’ lineman of the year rarely came off the field and yet maintained a high intensity. “He had a motor that never stopped,” defensive coordinator Mike Leibin said. “He was a phenomenal force on both sides of the ball.”

Stuart’s size repeatedly caused problems for opponents. On offense, quarterback Rudy Carpenter would throw a pass high enough that no one could reach it except Stuart. On defense, Stuart would raise his arms and bat down or deflect passes.

“His main job was to get to the quarterback, but he still had enough speed to get to running backs,” Leibin said.

Stuart made clutch receptions and momentum-changing sacks in big games all season. He had 11 receptions for 183 yards and two touchdowns in a 25-24 nonleague victory over Division II champion Newhall Hart.

Stuart plans to sign with USC on Feb. 4 and could end up being a tight end for the Trojans.

-- Eric Sondheimer