MCKINNEY, Texas — Riley Pettijohn has big goals for his football career. 

It’s why the McKinney senior linebacker said he makes sacrifices for the game.

“I know what the outcome could be later in life and how successful I want to be,” Pettijohn said.

Pettijohn has been one anchor of the Lions defense since first playing on varsity as a sophomore. He said his best attributes are a mix of the physical and mental parts of the game.

“I’m definitely like a coach on the field,” Pettijohn said. “I also have a nose for the football, and I have a high motor. I don’t want anybody to outwork me or out-hustle me.”

A work ethic that he hopes to bring to college at Ohio State University next season once his senior season ends.