After amazing sophomore season, Center Grove's Jackson ready for next step

When your older brother plays basketball at the University of Indiana and you’re the quarterback of a Class 6A powerhouse as a sophomore, it would be easy to develop a little bit of an ego. However, such is not the case for Center Grove junior quarterback Tayven Jackson. If anything, he is one of the humblest players in the state, despite being one of the best pro-style quarterbacks in the Hoosier State. After starting 1-4 last year, Jackson, who became the first sophomore to start for Eric Moore at quarterback since Jordan Luallan in 2006, led the Trojans to an 8-6 finish, capped off with a 20-17 loss to Carmel in the Class 6A state championship game. For the season, Jackson ended with 1,215 yards, 9 touchdowns and 10 interceptions through the air and was 92-of-175. He came into the 2019 season having attempted only three varsity passes. “I’ve always played quarterback my whole life. I always stood out when I was younger because I could throw the ball farther than everybody,” Jackson told Sideline Prep Sports Report. Jackson also excels on the hardwood for Center Grove, and his brother is Indiana University standout Trayce Jackson-Davis. However, on the gridiron, he has attracted the attention of many, as he is listed as one of the top underclassmen in the state. “I’m very humble about being called the best in the state for quarterbacks. I just have to work harder,” said Jackson. And, that he will, as he looks to erase any taste of the setback in the state title game this season. “I work hard, and hard work pays off. But, I couldn’t be doing this without my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. My goals are to win a state championship. I have some individual goals, but they don’t matter if we don’t win the state championship. I just want to lead our guys to a blue ring,” Jackson said. With an offer from Indiana University to his credit, Jackson has also drawn attention from Purdue, Cincinnati, Michigan State, Iowa, Kentucky, Nebraska, Wisconsin and Central Michigan just to name a few. He tells Sideline Prep Sports Report he doesn’t have a favorite at this time. “I like all the coaches I’ve spoken with. I’ve always just wanted to play for a great school and a great coaching staff,” Jackson said.