NCISAA Defenders we’re watching this Fall

With the NCHSAA moving fall sports to the spring, we’re left wanting for football this fall. However, most private schools are playing somewhat normal schedules this fall. This gives us the opportunity to focus on some NCISAA players, especially those currently flying under the radar. <strong>Jaheim Murphy, 6’0 275, DL, Harrells Christian</strong> Murphy led all NCISAA sophomores a year ago with 7.5 sacks. He played both ways but excelled on defense as a big defensive end and run stopper. We’re excited to see how he’s grown as a pass rusher. He has the potential to become a dominant player on Harrells’ defensive line as a junior. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28681" first="Tommy" last="Miller"], 5’11 180, DB, Metrolina Christian</strong> Miller is one of the more underrated safeties in the state. Also a tremendous student in the classroom, Miller is one of the best in the state at reading route combinations and recognizing where the ball is going. Miller has the speed to close down on ball carriers and loves to deliver big hits. He’s an excellent player and one fans will want to see in person. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id="28484" first="Langston" last="Long"], 6’3 210, DB, Christ School</strong> Long is one of the top "big" safeties in the state and often plays the linebacker position. We wrote about him in a <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/08/reason-for-the-rankings-51-55/">Reason for the Rankings</a> this week as we reached his spot at 52nd in the state. A Virginia commit, Long brings a ton of positional versatility to the defense and has a knack for making big plays, whether in the form of key interceptions and pass breakups or as an in-box defender against the run. <strong>Jack Varnum, 6’1 185, Edge, North Raleigh Christian Academy </strong> Vernum led the NCISAA in sacks last year with 10 sacks in nine games. He plays a hybrid defensive end-linebacker role for NRCA and lives in the backfield. He’s got a quick first step and knows how to use his quickness to get around offensive tackles. Odds are, if you see him play, you’ll see 2-3 big plays a game.