Quarterback Alex Padilla put up impressive numbers for the Cherry Creek football team last season, but not good enough in a few areas, which he is hoping to upgrade this season.

The senior has committed to play football next season for the University of Iowa and passed for 2,678 yards and 40 touchdowns for the Bruins last season with a .667 completion percentage.

He has been described as a pocket quarterback with excellent arm talent and an accurate delivery, but he hopes to add more to his resume this year for the Bruins, who have been ranked as the state's No. 1 5A team all season by the CHSAANow.com poll.

“I turned the ball a little too much last year,” said Padilla who moved into a starting role as a sophomore. “I had nine interceptions. I want to improve my completion percentage and be a better teammate and better leader. That's the biggest thing this year.

“It is a little of both physical and mental. Just becoming a little more comfortable with the offense, make reads faster and the leadership part is just being more vocal and being a better teammate. It comes with the territory of being a quarterback. It becomes easier over the years since I've been playing for a while. This year I feel I've done a better job than in years past.”

Key stats:

Padilla has thrown for 956 yards and 13 touchdowns in five games, with a completion percentage of 69.4.

COACH'S TAKE:

“He's poised and has been through some tough battles. You can throw a lot at him, he can check plays and for me he's been a lot of fun to coach. He's the leader of this team.”

Dave Logan, Cherry Creek head football coach

What's your favorite pre-game meal?

In the mornings my dad always makes me a chorizo and egg burrito on every game day. That's pretty good.

Who is your favorite athlete?

My favorite athlete right now is Marcus Mariota. I just love him because he is a humble, down-to-earth guy, works hard and doesn't talk or anything, just stays silent and works on his craft.

What music do you listen to before a game and why?

A little bit of everything, but right before a game I like to listen to rap because it gets you pumped up a little bit.

What or who motivates you most to excel in sports?

I would have to say my father (Mike) and my coaches. They are guys I look up to and they motivate me in every aspect of the game, not just physical, but being a better teammate.

What would be a perfect performance in your sport?

Anything that would help us get a win, whether it be handing the ball off or throwing 30-plus passes a game. Whatever helps us get a win.

If you could, what would you change about high school football?

I really don't like how they have made it a little less physical. I think it could remain the way it used to be but I understand it is all for safety.

What is your favorite class in school and why?

I like history. It's fun to learn about the past so we don't make any mistakes that have already been made.

What do you like to do away from sports and school?

I like to hang out with my friends and fish a lot.

What are your plans after high school?

I will be attending the University of Iowa and majoring in political science.