Week 11 – Defensive Players of the Week
The first round of the state playoffs in Colorado was chalk full of incredible offensive performances. However, with that being said, there were just as many outstanding defensive performances. Here’s a look at the three players who had the best…
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Continue ReadingThe first round of the state playoffs in Colorado was chalk full of incredible offensive performances. However, with that being said, there were just as many outstanding defensive performances. Here’s a look at the three players who had the best defensive performances in the first round of the state playoffs.
Players of the Week
Bode Hogan, Broomfield Eagles (LB)(Sr.)(4) – Despite the Eagles’ heartbreaking 22-25 loss to the Longmont Trojans, Hogan had a remarkable showing. Against the Trojans’ offense he accounted for an impressive 18 tackles and a tackle for a loss. When you put on the tape of Hogan, you can see he displays a strong downhill running style that allows him to maintain his gap responsibilities and run fits well. Technically sound LB that is rarely out of position when coming up to support the run. Shows good pop/force at the point-of-contact when tackling smaller ball carriers or shedding smaller blockers. High motor player that relentlessly pursues the ball carrier even when working backside. Shows adequate ability to drop into zone coverage and work underneath/in the flat. Requisite ability in man coverage when being asked to cover TEs and RBs. While Hogan more than likely won’t play at the collegiate level, he played his last game for the Eagles about as well as he could’ve and without a doubt left everything on the field.
Dominic Rivera, Denver North Vikings (LB)(Sr.)(12) – Rivera, arguably, had the best performance of any defensive player in the state last week. While the Vikings came up short in their 21-41 loss to the George Washington Patriots, Rivera performed about as well as you could hope for in his last game as a Viking. For the night, Rivera posted an outstanding 17 tackles, 2 tackles for a loss, and 2 sacks. Watching the film, Rivera displays an extremely physical style of play despite his significantly smaller size for a LB (5’10)(160). Deceptively powerful LB that brings plenty of tenacity and force when making a tackle on a ball carrier or when shedding a block. Smart LB that is rarely out of position when maintaining his gap responsibilities. His smaller size actually works in his favor when rushing the passer, because of his low center of gravity he is able to drive under the reach of the opposing tackle and maintain bend while pushing the edge of the pocket. Rivera is another player that probably won’t play collegiately, but he certainly ended his high school career with a bang.
Wes Jones, Columbine Rebels (FS)(Sr.)(22) – Jones easily had the most dominant night of any DB in the state during the Rebels’ 56-0 beatdown of the Far Northeast Warriors. Against the Warriors, Jones accounted for an incredible 2 tackles, 2 pass deflections, and 2 interceptions with one of them being returned for a touchdown. He also added 28 yards receiving and 2 touchdowns on offense, to boot. When you look at Jones’ performance, you can see that he is a prototypical safety with a good frame (6’2, 180 lbs) and great athleticism. Outstanding ball skills as he always seems to be around the ball while it’s in the air, especially on tipped passes as he has a good knack for knowing the trajectory of the ball. The combination of his ball skills and athleticism make him a lethal defender while playing the role of deep middle. Has enough foot speed and lateral agility to shut down opposing TEs working the seams or while covering RBs when he’s buzzing the flat. Displays good form when tackling in run support but projects more as a deep safety than one that plays in the box to support the run. Jones will more than likely keep his talents on the hardwood at the collegiate level, but is definitely a gifted football player as well that will look to finish his last year in pads strong.