Murphy steps into spotlight

Who is Kevin Murphy?

If he snuck up on you this season, don't worry, you're not alone.

Murphy's 21 rushing touchdowns leads all EMass schools. His efforts on the ground have led Blue Hills to a pristine 6-0 record and an average of 36 points per game - best in Division 3A. The senior has scored at least three touchdowns in each game and has scored more points this season (142) than 18 of the other 24 teams in the division.

Murphy didn't factor into the offense during Blue Hills's playoff run last season, but when first-year coach Ed Catabia had a void at fullback, he looked to his defensive back to shoulder the load.

"We just went up to Murphy and asked him if he would like to try it," Catabia said. "He said, 'Coach, I'll play wherever you want me to play.' "

And he needed him to fill a large void.

Last season, senior fullback Jerry Nelson finished with 19 touchdowns in 11 games, third best in Division 3A, a mark the 5-foot-10-inch, 170-pound Murphy has eclipsed in only six games.

After losing Riley Melo to injury in September, Murphy became the only returning varsity player from last year's team. He was voted one of four captains by his teammates and Murphy embraced his new role as a team leader.

"People sort of gravitate to him," said Catabia. "Over the past year, he's developed into a person that is a leader and not a follower. He's got the total package. He's got a great personality. He's very good in school. The teachers love him. Yet, like a normal high school kid, he loves a good time as well."

Part of that good time included dumping ice water on Catabia after his first career win, a 42-20 romp over West Bridgewater.

Though, when push comes to shove, the same ice water that drenched his coach runs through his veins. "We could practice all night and you'd never hear a [complaint] out of him," Catabia said. "He never gets frazzled."

Which is convenient, considering the mounting attention he's receiving from colleges and universities around New England, including the University of Connecticut.

It's clear his name is circulating. Kevin Murphy is an unknown no more.

Brian Nuzzo's 99-yard interception return for a touchdown for Everett against Xaverian Saturday was impressive but puts him only in second place in the family record book. His father, Frank Nuzzo Sr., had a 100-yard interception return for Everett in 1972, and his brother, Frank Jr., had a 97-yarder in 2002.

Weymouth 31, Newton North 21 - In a Bay State Carey matchup at Boston College, Royce Terrell led the Wildcats with 171 yards rushing and two touchdowns.