Bergen County Top Public School RB’s: Class of ’22

Especially in NJ high school football, the RB position comes at a premium for most teams. Let's take a look at the top ball carriers that will be toting the rock this season. &nbsp; <strong>Shawn Mastropierro, New Milford, 5’9 155 lbs</strong> The most complete &amp; traditional RB on this list. Once Mastropierro gets the balls in his hands, he will not go down easy despite his small stature. Great vision while running through a defense's front seven. Fights for extra yards on contact and keeps the legs churning at all times. Also has great hands for a RB. &nbsp; <strong>Justin Martone, Ramsey, 5’9 170 lbs</strong> Making an appearance on the Top Bergen County WR's Class '22 list, Martone has the ability to do it all. Ramsey High School did a fantastic job utilizing this young athletes skill set in the running game, as well as the passing game. Even when it looks like there is no where to go with the ball, Martone excels at creating open space in the field with his speed and agility. Most of his carry's as a RB came from a spread-option formation, helping him get passed first level defenders with ease. &nbsp; <strong>Dean Park, Fort Lee, 5’7 150 lbs</strong> Once Park hits the hole, the only thing a defender will see is the back of his jersey on his way to the endzone. Park accumulated an astounding 10.4 YPC on 40 carries through six games last year, only falling short to Martones 11.0 YPC. Park has break-away top-end speed is rarely seen at the high school level. Coach Gary Gaines (from the movie Friday Night Lights) would have a heart attack watching Park run east-west instead of north-south, but that's what makes Park's running style unique and successful for him. &nbsp; <strong>Nick Branca, Northern Highlands, 5’10 190 lbs</strong> Branca has the size to play football at the next level. This RB had the toughest competition to face in the 2020 season and was still able to manage an impressive 5.0 YPC on 135 carries. Has overall above average skills to do everything you need him to do as a RB. A little mix of power, speed, vision and hands give Northern Highlands an advantage in game planning against opponents and utilize Branca in the best situations possible. &nbsp; <strong>Joeseph Lavignani, Lyndhurst, 5’9 190 lbs</strong> CHOO-CHOO! HERE COMES THE FREIGHT TRAIN! Lavignani is the only true power back on this list. It would be wise to get out of his way when trying to tackle him. Never falls victim to weak arm tackles. Surprisingly good speed + agility for an athlete of his stature. If Lavignani get's more carries for Lyndhurst this year, his team will make a push in the playoffs come December. &nbsp;