Howard, Sterling eager for showdown

Khalil Howard is Sterling's silent storm.

"Actions speak louder than words," said Howard, a senior linebacker and running back for the Silver Knights.

The 5-foot-10, 185-pound Howard will quietly lead Sterling into one of the key games in the recent history of the program: a showdown Friday night against fellow Colonial Liberty and South Jersey Group 2 contender Haddon Heights.

Sterling is 3-3 and looking to qualify for the tournament for the first time since 2005. Haddon Heights is 4-2 and angling for a high seed and home playoff game.

Add in the proximity of the two schools, the rivalry between the athletic programs, and the familiarity of the athletes on both sides, and Howard regards this game as perhaps the biggest of his career.

"This is exactly what I hoped for," Howard said. "To be in the playoff race at this time of the season, that's what we all wanted for this program."

Howard has been a driving force in Sterling's resurgence. He's the team's leading rusher with 534 yards on 84 carries (6.4-yard average). He has scored a team-high seven touchdowns.

But Howard has done his best work on defense. He leads the Silver Knights with 51 tackles, more than twice as many as any of his teammates.

"That kid is a terrific linebacker," West Deptford coach Clyde Folsom said. "He was all over the field against us."

Howard said he prefers defense to offense.

"I like to hit people," Howard said.

Sterling's defense will face a stern challenge against Haddon Heights. The Garnets run a no-huddle, spread offense and are averaging 35.6 points behind versatile quarterback Dante Pinckney.

"We're going to have to stop the run and the pass," Howard said. "We know they are a good team."

Sterling coach Clint Wiley said Howard's work ethic and dedication have set an example for the rest of the team.

"He's an old-school football player," Wiley said. "He comes to practice every day and gives 100 percent effort. He goes out on the field in the games and does whatever he can to help the team win.

"He's all about the team. He's a great role model for Sterling High School and our football program."

About the only thing Howard doesn't do for the Silver Knights is talk a good game. Although he needs to call signals as the middle linebacker on defense, he is a quiet leader.

"I've never been a big talker," Howard said. "I don't like to say that much. I'd rather just show it than talk about it."