Running Wild — Thomas J. Dygard

Tough guy Pete Holman has been in and out of trouble for most of his high school career. Then he discovers football, and an exciting new world opens for him. But just when he thinks he's finally turning his life around, his old gang shows up--and jeopardizes everything. "Dygard scores again with a fast-paced story that skillfully blends exciting sports action with a realistic portrayal of the dynamics of high-school friendships."--Booklist.