Class of 2023: LBs to Watch in Central Texas
Linebackers face the tough position of keeping track of quarterbacks and running backs while also sometimes dropping back in coverage. Given how tough the position is, it is important to keep an eye out for young talent already showcasing their…
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Continue ReadingLinebackers face the tough position of keeping track of quarterbacks and running backs while also sometimes dropping back in coverage. Given how tough the position is, it is important to keep an eye out for young talent already showcasing their abilities and these incoming juniors do just that.
1. Zavian Tibbs – Shoemaker High School (Killeen, TX)
Although Tibbs lacked in producing tackling stats, with only 28 total tackles on the season in eight games, he produced the most sacks on the team with five, and he also had 13 quarterback hurries. He had two sacks against Tivy and recorded a sack against San Angelo Central, Bryan and DeSoto. He also forced one fumble against Bryan. Considering Tibbs will be moving up to a junior next season, and will more than likely receive more reps, his stat numbers should only improve but he has already proven to be a lethal force for quarterbacks to handle in the backfield.
2. Brody Bujnoch – Hutto High School (Hutto, TX)
Opposite to Tibbs, Bujnoch was a dominate tackler last season, racking up 60 total tackles and 13 tackles for a loss. However, he had four interceptions, which for a sophomore linebacker, is insane numbers. He also blocked two punts on top of that. Although the numbers speak for themselves, it is the opponents Bujnoch got these stats from that is worth noting. Against Cedar Ridge, he had one interception and one blocked punt. Against Vista Ridge, Stony Point and McNeil he also got an interception, and against Round Rock, he got his other blocked punt. Bujnoch has already emerged as a playmaker and should be scary for Hutto’s opponents next season.
3. Jace Mann – Rouse High School (Leander, TX)
Turnovers was also the name of the game for Mann as he had two interceptions and three fumble recoveries last season. Altogether, Rouse had a defense that constantly got turnovers which is already a promising sign for Mann. In tackling, Mann also showed his potential with 74 total tackles including 41 of those being solo. Mann is a part of a defense known for its turnover game and he is already showcasing his ability to do just that. Rouse, and Mann, are a scary bunch for opposing offenses.
4. Hayden Manahan – Llano High School (Llano, TX)
Manahan is what is known as a tackling machine, as he led the impressive Llano team with 125 total tackles last season which averages out to 9.6 tackles per game. While his other numbers are unimpressive for now, Manahan has already shown his ability and athleticism based on these stats alone. He out-tackled every senior and junior on the team, almost in the solo tackle stat category as well. From the numbers alone, Manahan is a monster in the making.
5. Gary Seidenberger – Fredericksburg High School (Fredericksburg, TX)
Much like Manahan, Seidenberger led the team with 103 total tackles and averaged 10.3 tackles per game. He also racked up three sacks on the season, also leading the team. Although Fredericksburg is a team currently struggling, Seidenberger has shown his promise and potential and could help lead a change for the team both on defense and with team leadership as he gets older.