Class of 2024 Standouts after Week Two

Sophomores have had a big hand in deciding game outcomes early on this season. As recruiting continues to evolve, younger players are getting earlier chances to prove to colleges that they can provide something for their team in the future. Having the 'it factor' can be a game changer as a younger athlete. As we wrapped up the new update for the class of 2024 last month, it was amazing to see that there were almost 25 players that were worthy of a ranking as sophomores. Recruiting has come a long way and it will continue to grow as the game does. <strong><em>The class of 2024 rankings update can be found <a href="https://prepredzone.com/michigan/rankings/2024-rankings/">here</a>.</em></strong> Here are some notes on sophomores that stepped up in week two of the 2021 season. [player_tooltip player_id="187999" first="Jeremiah" last="Beasley"] As a linebacker, Beasley is one of the best in the state, in any class, at causing disruption at the line of the scrimmage. He has a big time ability to cause havoc amongst blocking assignments and make plays in the backfield. In week two's matchup against Dearborn, Beasley showed that ability on film, constantly breaking down and making a play on the football. Beasley's speed rushes from the outside and inside are impressive as he can get through the line virtually untouched on most occasions.  His vision and pursuit make his game go, and he is only hitting the cusp of the player he can be. He currently has seven offers from schools like Michigan, Michigan State, and Kentucky. https://twitter.com/JBeasley_2024/status/1433768695692681218?s=20 [player_tooltip player_id="187996" first="Jaylen" last="Watson"] There might not be a better route runner in the class of 2024 than Watson. He makes quick and decisive cuts that allow him to glide through the secondary while getting big gains for the offense. Watson has reliable hands and has the smarts to read a defense and make adjustments mid-route. His speed and footwork as he makes his cuts are flashy and he can beat a defense from anywhere on the field. In River Rouge's week two matchup vs. De La Salle Collegiate, Watson was Rouge's best playmaker on the field. He was tough to tackle in the open field and made positive plays all night. Watson currently has his first division one offer from Central Michigan with more on the horizon. https://twitter.com/statechampsmich/status/1434546876494217218?s=20 [player_tooltip player_id="187995" first="Xavier" last="Bowman"] A familiar name shows up again on a 2024 stock risers list. Bowman had himself an impressive game this past weekend, with two receptions for two touchdowns and 85 yards. He can make big plays consistently and it has shown in the last two games for Brother Rice. Every team needs a burner on the outside who can get up the field and make plays, and that's how Bowman's role has fit with this team. At the college level, coaches love players that open things up for the offense, especially if they're struggling. The danger of having a speedy receiver on the other side of the ball is that the safeties have to constantly trail and keep an eye on him, resulting in a lot of underneath stuff being wide open. Bowman may not have 12 catches a game, but his efficiency with finding the endzone is superb and ideal if you want to win games. https://twitter.com/24Xxavi/status/1434559627979599874?s=20 &nbsp;