Statesboro Football’s Top Returners For The 2021 Season
Last season, the Statesboro Blue Devils did not have their best season. To start the season, they lost 3 non-regional games in a row. They would go on to lose 4 more games during the 2020 season, including their loss…
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Continue ReadingLast season, the Statesboro Blue Devils did not have their best season. To start the season, they lost 3 non-regional games in a row. They would go on to lose 4 more games during the 2020 season, including their loss to Evans in the first round of the playoffs. This put them at a 4-7 overall record, with a 3-3 record in their region. Needless to say, Statesboro performed under par compared to what they could have wanted or expected. As the 2021 season approaches, the Blue Devils will likely look to eliminate any memories that anyone may have of their shortcomings in 2020. To do so, this will require the best effort from some of their best returning players, below, we have listed a few of them to check out before the season starts.
Timothy Taylor- WR
As a big bodied, and long receiver, Taylor does a good job of going up and getting the football and boxing out defenders in contested situations. When doing so, he comes down with the ball with his strong hands. Taylor also does a decent job of running routes, and using his size and frame to his advantage, helping him to gain separation. This typically makes it much easier for the QB to get the ball out to him, and for him to gain positive yards on the ground after the catch. Even though he has strengths in each of these areas, we are an even bigger fan of the fact that he is a team player, and that he is not afraid to be a key blocker for his team. This will be the kind of self sacrifice and approach that will be necessary going into the 2021 season, as it will help change the culture in the Blue Devil’s locker room.
Jalin Mikell- RB
With Mikell, and Jordan Lovett in the backfield, the Blue Devils have a strong running attack, which can be seen to be one of the major factors of their success. Specifically, Mikell runs with great burst and high knee drive. He does a good job of switching gears as he maneuvers through the hole, and he also runs with a good lean and lower body strength. Mikell is great at catching the ball out of the back field as well, and allowing his speed and power to do the rest of the work for him. He has decent vision too, which can be seen coming out of the backfield, as he is able to read the defense well and make adjustments as needed. Because he is such a force with the rock in his hands, expect him to be one of the leading factors to any success that Statesboro has in 2021.
Jamie Speight- DE/ LB
One of the undeniable traits that Speight displays is his unique burst, and speed off of the edge. Not only is this a key factor in his ability to get to the ball carrier, but it also helps him to work his way around the offensive line, and to get to the passer. Speight is an effective player in pursuit, as well as in the pass rush due to his elusiveness off of the edge, and his footwork, and use of hands. At times, he can be seen to almost be a bully to offensive players, as his strength completely outmatches them as he uses good leverage. As he continues to grow into his body, and learns more pass rush moves, we would like to see him work on his bend and change of direction. Improvements in these areas will help take his game to the next level.
Jordan Lovett- RB
In his second year, Lovett has already made a name for himself as one of the key backs in the Blue Devil’s offense. To start, what makes him lethal is his ability to catch the ball and get up the field. This creates match up problems for the defense, while also opening up a whole new dynamic to the offense. Lovett also has great burst, speed, and agility, which helps him to be able to turn the corner well, and to make defenders miss. Paired with this, his twitch, and quick feet is what puts defenders in a mix, and he also allows his lower body strength and balance to do the rest of the work for him. With this being said, we are very excited to see how he continues to progress as a player in the coming years, because we think he has all of the tools to become a star for this Statesboro team.