Defensive Game Changers
There have been a handful of prospects that are making a huge impact on defense for their schools across the state in numerous conferences. Some players are well known around the state, while others are giving themselves a big introduction…
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Continue ReadingThere have been a handful of prospects that are making a huge impact on defense for their schools across the state in numerous conferences. Some players are well known around the state, while others are giving themselves a big introduction from their play. Here’s a look at five players who are playing lights out on the defensive side of the ball:
Jayden Wayne Jayden Wayne 6'5" | 240 lbs | DL Lincoln | 2023 FL , DL, Lincoln ’23
There’s a reason why Wayne is the top prospect in the 2023 class, as he has racked up 8 sacks, 9 hurries, 28 tackles, and 9 TFL’s in just a 5 game span. His 34 offers speak for itself, as Wayne is the most dangerous player in the state of Washington. Tremendous length and frame a 6’6″ 245lbs with excellent quickness at the LOS to win immediately off the ball, and is strong at the POC. Excellent technique combined with athleticism and strength as he does a great job disengaging from blocks with ease to blow up plays. A very gifted athlete with a high ceiling as he just continues to play lights out.
Jason Grant, DB, Toppenish ’22
Grant has been an impressive player on both sides of the ball for Toppenish. However, his ability to make an impact on defense is what caught my attention. Through six games, he has racked up 6 INT’s, 27 tackles, forced a fumble, and also contributes as a PR. Colleges will like his frame and build at 6’1″ 205lbs combined with his functional strength. He is a ball hawk in the back half as he frequently reads the QB’s eyes and tendencies well. He plays safety in a 2-high shell where he seems to have a good understanding of responsibilities. Grant is a solid tackler overall as he flashes some strength at the POA and drives through opponents to bring them down.
Jesse Benge, DL, Naches Valley ’23
Benge continues to establish himself as a difference maker along the DL. Through five games, he has 7 sacks, 5 TFL’s, and 28 total tackles. He is proving to be a consistent mismatch with his 6’4″ 230lb build as he possesses excellent length while flashing violent hands to beat opponents. He’s shown the ability to overpower double teams to blow up the run, as well as the ability to maul opponents in 1v1 battles. He uses his length to his advantage when he’s at DE to deflect passes at the LOS as well. So far an impressive big man with good potential moving forward.
Ben Hunter, DB, Emerald Ridge ’22
Hunter has been a ball hawk through six games by picking off 5 passes, which includes a 3 INT game against Curtis where he took one to the house as well. He has also contributed with 22 tackles (18 solo) and a fumble recovery scoop and score. He’s shown the ability to line up on as island and play CB or line up at FS and patrol the back half. Hunter shows good route recognition with solid anticipation and a nice break on the ball. Solid range with legit ball hawk ability, as Hunter continues to produce at a high level for that Emerald Ridge defense.
Zane Hickman. LB, River View ’22
Hickman has lit up the stat sheet by racking up 76 total tackles (45 solo), 3 sacks, 4 TFL’s, 1 INT, 5 PBU’s, and a fumble recovery. Clearly a major asset to that River View Squad, Hickman displays solid play rec and takes good pursuit tracks toward the ball. He shows strength at the POC with good physicality all around, making him a reliable tackler in the run game. He does a solid job with blitz timing, as he frequently is too quick off the snap and shoots through gaps almost untouched.