Semi-Final Stars to Watch
If the quarter-final games were any indication, we are in for one heck of a weekend at U.S. Bank Stadium. With fourteen games over a three day period, U.S. Bank Stadium will host the best of the best in Minnesota high-school football. For those making the trip, here are a few stars to keep an eye on throughout the weekend.
1. [player_tooltip player_id="154572" first="Anthony" last="Sykora"], Junior RB, West Central Area Knights (5’10" 180lbs)
One word I would use to describe Mr. Sykora is ELECTRIC. The junior RB is the heart and sole of the Knights offense and for good reason. Sykora possesses elite breakaway speed in the open field and great balance running between the tackles. He has the ability to score every time he touches the ball. Sykora lines up as a true RB most of the time, but the Knights also utilize him in their wildcat package. Look for Sykora to get plenty of work as the Knights look to make it to the 2A Finals.
2. Kaden Zenzen, Senior TE/DE, Barnesville Trojans (6’4" 205lbs)
It’s hard to miss the NDSU commit whenever he’s on the field. Zenzen makes his presence felt both offensively and defensively for the Trojans, who are trying to finally get over the hump and end the year with a state title. Zenzen utilizes his long frame to keep offensive lineman from getting their hands on him, while also having the quickness to get his hands into throwing lanes. When he turns it loose, the senior DE is able to bend the edge and pressure QB’s on a regular basis. Offensively, Zenzen provides a huge target for his QB and is utilized mostly in the red zone.
3. Koi Perich, Sophomore OLB/RB, Esko Eskimos (6’2" 180lbs)
Pop on the highlight film and prepare to be wowed by this class of 2024 member. Koi Perich is a unique blend of size and quick twitch agility that doesn’t come along all that often. Whether it’s chasing down run plays from his OLB position, or showcasing his breakaway speed in the open field, Perich puts on a performance each and every play. I was most impressed with his quick twitch ability on both sides of the ball. When he gets a handoff, Perich is able to put a foot in the ground and get north and south in a hurry. Defensively he has the ability to change direction quickly when covering RB’s and TE’s, while also showing the necessary speed and athleticism to chase down the QB.
4. Ozzie Meyer-Rice, Senior RB/LB, Kittson County Central Bearcats (6’1" 205lbs)
Ozzie Meyer-Rice is the true unknown of this list. The senior RB has very little tape to watch, but what plays I have seen there is a lot to like about his game. He is a big physical back, who has the ability to run away from defenders. He’s not afraid of contact and shows great balance when navigating through the line. Meyer-Rice rushed for almost 1,600yds this season with 18 TD’s. Defensively he racked up 114 tackles to lead the Bearcats' defense. With not much film available, this is one player I am excited to see take the field at U.S. Bank Stadium.
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