Ottawa-Kent Conferences: Top Defensive Lineman, Part I

This is my seventh edition in which I breakdown the best players at each position group in the Ottawa-Kent Conferences. So far I’ve scouted the best <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/07/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-quarterbacks/">quarterbacks</a>, <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/07/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-running-backs/">running backs</a>, <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/07/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-wide-receivers-part-i/">wide receivers</a>, <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/08/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-athletes/">athletes</a>, <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/08/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-linebackers/">linebackers</a>, and <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2020/08/ottawa-kent-conferences-top-defensive-backs/">defensive backs</a>. Today, I’m breaking down the best defensive lineman in the OK. <h5>[player_tooltip player_id="29548" first="Ru’Quan" last="Buckley"], Godwin Heights 2021"</h5> <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/10126976/5dba4c69b3d2af0dd0ad76e0" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Ru'Quan is picking up interest amongst high major power 5 programs and for good reason. He's a physical specimen that has an extremely quick burst off the snap. Can overpower those lined up against him and has quick feet to beat you around the edge. Expect Ru'Quan to lead the way for Godwin Heights when football is resumed. <h5>[player_tooltip player_id="29668" first="Landon" last="VanBeek"], Grand Haven 2021"</h5> <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/9818759/5dc765ed9a92860c9c334049" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Landon has a solid frame which he uses effectively to cause havoc in the backfield. Landon has a diverse collection of moves to get past offensive lineman, with his swim-move being his most polished action. Rarely does Landon get pushed off the line of scrimmage. He also has a knack for knowing where the play might unfold, which has been a huge asset for Grand Haven in stopping the run. <h5>Alex Karas, Rockford 2021"</h5> <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/11362820/5dc47eaa7bd2d30efc7c05a4" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Alex may not be the most physically imposing lineman on this list, but his lack of size shouldn't be a reason to take him lightly. Alex has exceptional quickness that is often too much for opposing offensive lineman to match up with. His ability to use his low center of gravity and get past opposing tackles and guards is as polished as any defensive lineman I've scouted in the area. He also has the speed to run-down ball carriers. <h5>[player_tooltip player_id="30014" first="Michael" last="Momber"], Hudsonville 2021"</h5> <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/11745670/5dd359d09a92b30bd03a3a6c" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Standing at 6'3" 300 lbs, Michael is a physical presence who does the majority of his damage at the noseguard and tackle positions. His size and strength requires an additional blocker just to keep the play from blowing up. Michael also has the footwork to shed additional blockers, often at times with ease. Michael's disruptive nature in the backfield is a key component in Hudsonville's defense and should be noted at the top of every opposing team's scouting reports. <h5>[player_tooltip player_id="30288" first="Brady" last="Redmer"], Catholic Central 2022"</h5> <iframe src="//www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/10812955/5df6d6217bdcb30cd8056708" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> Brady is another lineman on this list who is on the smaller side, comparatively speaking for a defensive lineman. Just like Alex Karas, Brady uses his quick first step to get to the ball carrier in a hurry. What stands out to me the most about Brady's style of play is the tenacity with which he plays. He never gives up on a play and can be seen chasing down the ball-carrier, even when he's on the opposite side of the field.