Harding's Knighton Shines Brightly

Michael Pirnique Harding quarterback David Knighton in action last season at First Security Stadium.

David Knighton will enter his senior season at Harding University already the owner of 27 Bisons offensive records. Here are just a few in the all-time career category: pass attempts (868), completions (534), passing yardage (6,121), passing touchdowns (56), completion percentage (61.5), efficiency or rating (134.4).

Knighton, the 6-foot-1, 225-pounder, has been responsible for 64 touchdowns in the past three seasons. Obviously, his arm accounts for a significant total.

The fifth-year senior from Seminole, Okla., did not play in Harding's spring game, as the quarterback duties were shared by sophomore Zach Tribble and freshman Nick Jones. While neither may be in the athletic category of Knighton, both look like they'll be able to keep up Harding's passing attack when Knighton moves on. Tribble completed 20 of 37 passes in the spring game for 246 yards. Jones completed an impressive 13 of 16 passes for 140 yards.

Knighton was a 2007 first-team Associated Press Little All-American as well as All-Gulf South Offensive Player of the Year and a 2007 Harlon Hill finalist. Last season, he topped 300 yards in passing in seven games, including a school-record 529 yards against Arkansas Tech.