Once again this season, Pensacola had some game-changing players who made an impact during the pandemic and beyond. Among those stepping up this season included: Tarquise Duncan (Pensacola High), Gavin “Scooter” Grice (Pensacola Pine Forest), Elijah Larkins (Pensacola West Florida), Hershell Jefferson (Pensacola Escambia – PICTURED), Eldrick Robinson II (Pensacola Washington).
Each year we say it over and over again about Florida’s Panhandle, and now, it looks like things may be changing.
Long hidden from the exposure that the rest of the state receives from college recruiters, here is an area that always found a way to produce talent, but it never seemed to attract college coaches to flock to this potential gold mine.
<img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-70735" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2020/11/UndertheRadar-Logo-4-300x188.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="188" />With more athletes from the area turning heads at camps and combines, and producing head-turning results during the season, more college coaches than ever have started to pay attention to Pensacola and much of the Panhandle – despite the lack of schools and being in the Central Time Zone.
With Escambia reaching the 6A finals a year ago – and several other schools making headlines, the spotlight is beginning to shine on many of the areas west of Tallahassee.
As we do throughout the year, we pay attention to every corner of the state – and once again today look in on five prospects.
<strong>2021 – Tarquise Duncan, DE/TE, Pensacola High. </strong>The first thing you think about when watching this young man play is raw, but strong and athletic – and that adds up to something very impressive. He plays inside very well – using his leverage, strength and technique to his advantage. Quality line prospect.
<strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/10002091/Tarquise-Duncan">https://www.hudl.com/profile/10002091/Tarquise-Duncan</a>
<strong>2022 – Gavin “Scooter” Grice, RB, Pensacola Pine Forest. </strong>While he isn’t a break away runner, what he will be is someone who gets you those yards, is strong and can catch. He is a talented football player who will be key in this team making major strides You need football player like this to be successful. Hard workers who wants to make a contribution.
<strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/12655150/Scooter-grice">https://www.hudl.com/profile/12655150/Scooter-grice</a><strong> </strong>
<strong>2022 - Elijah Larkins, LB, Pensacola West Florida. </strong>Here is a standout that should easily be among the best linebackers in the Panhandle in 2021. A quick, strong, athletic and smart football player who will get after you – in a hurry. Keep in mind, while he is a solid football player, he needs to work on certain things in his game that will put him into a high-level group. Has passion for the game.
<strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11162934/Elijah-L-Larkins">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11162934/Elijah-L-Larkins</a>
<strong>2022 – Hershell Jefferson, DB, Pensacola Escambia. </strong>If you followed Mike Bennett’s coaching career, there is always one or more players like this on his teams. Someone who can make a major difference – with a big play. His ability to return punts and kicks also make him someone that you just have to get on your team. Has played a key role for the Gators’ success so far this season.
<strong>TAPE: </strong><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11944240/Adan-Parker">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11944240/Adan-Parker</a>
<strong>2021 – Eldrick Robinson II, LB, Pensacola Washington. </strong>A true emotional leader on a unit that had its share of playmakers. Solid tackler and is very quick to the ball – giving the offense very little room to make plays. He will hit you – and is not afraid of getting his body in the action. Another of those football players you like on your side.
<strong>TAPE:</strong> <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11030097/Eldrick-Robinson-II">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11030097/Eldrick-Robinson-II</a>
<strong><em>You Can Contact Larry Blustein with prospect or team information at: <a href="mailto:Foridakids1@aol.com">Foridakids1@aol.com</a>. We are also on Social Media on @PrepRedzonefl.</em></strong>
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