Southern Illinois Representing in Naperville!

Ryan Bennett

September 25, 2020 @ 07:29 PM

Southern Illinois has never really had a fair shake when it comes to football-related exposure throughout the state of Illinois. I grew up in Mt. Vernon, so I’m well aware of the talent in this area and how often it goes unnoticed. Parents are waking up at five in the morning to drive their aspiring student-athletes to Naperville, IL, to prove that their kids belong and can compete with the best in the state. I know that these kids will turn some heads and can’t wait to see the turnout.   I’ve kept in close contact with many of these young men attending the upcoming showcases, encouraging them to be confident and not intimated by the atmosphere. The scouts are there for you, so take advantage of the opportunity- get after it and show them what Southern Illinois has to offer! I’m proud that my part of this state will have representation at one of the bigger stages for prep high school football. Below I’ve listed some of the players that I have confirmed will be attending the (SOLD OUT) Prep Redzone Showcase that you’re going to want to keep an eye on.   <ul> <li>[player_tooltip player_id="20225" first="Hunter" last="Simmons"], QB Marion HS, Class of 2021, 6’4 215</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Eli Downen, QB Carterville HS, Class of 2021, 6’5 210</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Keegan Glover, QB Benton HS, Class of 2022, 6’0 165</li> </ul>   These are the three notable QBs that will take part in the showcase tomorrow. There’s a lot of talent in these individuals, and the college scouts will know their names when it’s all said and done.   <ul> <li>Peyton Mazur, OL Christopher Community HS, Class of 2022 6’4 340</li> </ul> I recently wrote about Peyton; this kid is ready to compete on Saturday with the state’s best. Big and powerful, he’ll be exciting to watch!   <ul> <li>Evan Leake, WR/ATH, Mount Vernon HS, Class of 2021 5’11 200</li> </ul>   <ul> <li>Allen Middleton, WR/ATH, Mascoutah HS, Class of 2023 5’10 175</li> </ul>   <ul> <li>Camden Robbins, DB/WR/ATH, Fairfield HS, Class of 2022 6'2 180</li> </ul>   These three rathletes have excellent breakaway speed, a twitchy first step, and great hands. Can’t wait to see them in action - heads will turn.   Spotlight   These players are not from Southern Illinois but have kept in contact and are making great strides in their daily improvement. I’m ready to meet these young men tomorrow for their showcase close-up.   <ul> <li>Ty “The Russian” Hopp, LB, Aurora Central Catholic HS, Class of 2022 6’1 220</li> </ul> <ul> <li>[player_tooltip player_id="20280" first="Lucas" last="Althaus"], TE, Cambridge HS, Class of 2021, 6’6 233</li> </ul>   I have followed both of these boys since I began scouting, and they have been sensational and helpful with any information I’ve asked of them. Furthermore, they play like Power 5 Recruits, so keep your eyes peeled when these two are running drills.