Photo by Paul DeCoursey Byron Jarrett scrambles for Iowa Central during Saturday’s scrimmage at Dodger Stadium.

The last time Byron Jarrett saw the field in a game, he was helping quarterback Ellsworth against Iowa Central inside Dodger Stadium.

That was nearly two years ago.

Jarrett returned to Dodger Stadium this past weekend, only he was wearing a Triton uniform as Iowa Central held a fall scrimmage. The NJCAA season shifted to spring, but programs have been allowed to practice and hold a scrimmage in the fall.

“It felt amazing to be back out there,” Jarrett said. “We have put in so much work since July 7, and I’m glad we got to show it off to the public eye.

“Personally I was a little bit anxious, because Dodger Stadium was the last place I suited up. But the jitters were gone really quick.”

Jarrett took snaps with the No. 1 offense throughout the scrimmage. He hit Jayce Levy on a long touchdown strike, and also connected with Savion Johnson for another score.

“I think I’ve found a very good home here with my new coaches and new teammates,” Jarrett said. “It is definitely better being on these guys’ side than playing against them. I have a great bond with everyone here, and it’s definitely going to get way stronger rolling into the spring.”

Jarrett finished his one season at Ellsworth with 588 yards passing and three touchdowns in seven games.

During his in high school career with Des Moines Hoover, Jarrett shined. As a senior, he completed 155 of 274 passes for 2,710 yards and 23 passing TDs. He also ran for 194 yards and scored four times.

As a junior, Jarrett threw for 2,364 yards with 18 touchdowns.

Despite being in his first season at Iowa Central, Jarrett brings experience to the program.

“I know the type of work and effort you have to put in to last in this conference,” he said. “Iowa Central is pushing us to win the national championship this season, and I believe and know we will be there this June.”

Jarrett credits offensive coordinator Mike Minikwu with helping guide him to Fort Dodge.

“We talked a couple of days before the report day in July and hit it off again,” Jarrett said. “He recruited me back in high school to Iowa Western, and I knew I could trust being in his hands along with the rest of the coaching staff here. Coach (Jesse) Montalto and I’s relationship has gotten a lot stronger since being here, and I feel as if every coach here has the trust in me to lead us to a national championship.

“Coaches (Mitch) Buhler and Montalto have made me such a better quarterback. They are getting me ready for that Power 5 level.”

Iowa Central opens the 2021 season at home on Saturday, March 27, vs. Southern-Shreveport.

“I am looking (forward to) this season a lot,” Jarrett said. “Coach Montalto tells us that this team is very special and we work harder than any other team in the nation — I can guarantee that.

“Our coaches have a bar set for us and that is to win the national championship game. Nothing less. We know that is going to happen with the work and time we have put in.”