It’s no easy task in identifying where quarterback Michael Whitley of Lakeland University might need the most improvement.

The former Trinity Episcopal star is coming off a stellar sophomore campaign in which he completed 260 of 427 passes for 3,527 yards and recorded 34 touchdown passes to just 10 interceptions in leading his squad to an 8-3 mark and a Division III first-round playoff appearance.

But the junior signal-caller isn’t content.

Instead, he’s focused on building on his standout season.

“This year is my time,” Whitley said. “I’ve learned to be the leader of the team, and I want to take on that pressure.”

Whitley signed with the Howards Grove, Wis.-based school in 2014 after a stellar prep career, which included a MAIS Class A football state championship. The former local star said although there was an adjustment period at first, he’s enjoyed his time spent in Wisconsin.

“It’s a little bit different, the weather is different,” Whitley said. “But it’s not too bad; it’s a small college town.”

Whitley spent most of his first year watching from the sidelines, playing in just seven games. But entering his second year in the Lakeland program, Whitley emerged as the Muskies’ first-team quarterback and hasn’t looked back.

“It was pretty amazing coming from my freshman year to taking over as the guy,” he said. “The coaches all depended on me, and it was an amazing feeling. It was great knowing my teammates believed in me and that they could depend on me.”

While Whitley considers himself to be a pocket passer, he can also provide damage with his legs, evidenced by his 640 rushing yards last season.

“I like to be a pocket quarterback and make my reads, and only run when I need to run,” Whitley said. “I actually want to throw the ball and make my receivers look good.”

Due in large part to his efforts, Whitley was able to steer the Muskies on a seven-game winning streak in 2015.

But Whitley said he wants more this season for his squad.

“We have to stay together as a team,” he said. “As for me, I have to make better reads, and we have to learn to adjust when things aren’t going our way and make more plays.”

Lakeland’s first game this season slated for Sept. 3 against Carroll University.