Rushville's Vance is a true student of the game

If there a game on, Jake Vance is watching.

If there is an opportunity to break down film or study an opponent, Jake Vance is there with a pen and notebook.

After being introduced to the game as a child and playing quarterback, running back, safety, cornerback and wide receiver before setting in for receiver at Rushville High School, Vance takes great pride in learning and studying.

"I've always been a student of the game for as long as I can remember. I'm blessed to share the game I love with my brother, who is my quarterback, and my dad, who used to be my coach," Vance said.

A season ago, Vance rushed for 669 yards and four touchdowns on 78 carries. He also hauled in 41 catches for 643 yards and eight touchdowns for the Lions.

While, those are good numbers, Vance tells Sideline Prep Sports Report he is not satisfied.

"I have a lot to improve on. I will never be satisfied with my talents, and I am always training to be better. I honestly just feel like I am a hard worker. I pour everything I have into football. I'm determined to get better and will feel personal success when I sign with a college to play for the next four years," Vance said.

Rushville finished with one win last season, and that has provided plenty of ammunition for Vance, along with the fact this is his last season with Rushville.

"This season is extremely special for me. I get to play my last high school football games with my brother. He is my quarterback and my best friend. It will be emotional. My team and I would like to finish over .500 this year and, again, win the War on 44 trophy," Vance said, alluding to the trophy Rushville and Connersville play for.

Proof that he is a student is evident by the fact that Vance is being recruited by Yale, Harvard, Brown, Columbia, Drake, Davidson, Dayton, Hillsdale, the University of Indianapolis, Bates, Oberlin, Kenyon and Olivet Nazarene. He has also talked with Northwestern about being a preferred walk-on.