2023 Defensive Stock Risers: Part 2

Yesterday, we evaluated some of the rising defensive prospects in the Class of 2023. Today, we look at three more prospects who fit that category. This trio is ready to shut down offenses and make their move up the state rankings. [player_tooltip player_id="185221" first="Brennan" last="Balka"], 6’2, 215 pounds, Linebacker, LaPorte Any team looking for that premier run-stopper should look no further than LaPorte’s [player_tooltip player_id="185221" first="Brennan" last="Balka"]. He is outstanding at keeping his shoulders square to the line-of-scrimmage and then putting his foot in the ground and attacking. When he gets to the ball-carrier Balka has the tackling ability to consistently make the stop. Balka shows great pursuit each play. That same tenacity is helpful when blitzing. He attacks the pocket and speeds up the quarterback. [player_tooltip player_id="185221" first="Brennan" last="Balka"] can be the heart and soul of the defense. [player_tooltip player_id="300060" first="Carson" last="Brookbank"], 6’0, 175 pounds, Defensive Back, Shenandoah [player_tooltip player_id="300060" first="Carson" last="Brookbank"] can solidify a defense from both safety spots, and he can lead the offense at quarterback. Defensively, Brookbank recorded 21 total tackles with 18 of those being solo. He showed his reliability defending the pass by recording one interception and three pass defenses. At quarterback, Brookbank is a playmaker. He throws a great ball; his throws being on-time and accurate. Balka uses his legs well, keeping defenses under constant pressure. [player_tooltip player_id="300060" first="Carson" last="Brookbank"] is on the precipice of a breakout senior year. [player_tooltip player_id="299647" first="Aaron" last="Mcclure"], 5’9, 185 pounds, Linebacker, Merrillville [player_tooltip player_id="299647" first="Aaron" last="Mcclure"] played in eight games for Merrillville’s varsity team this past season. In that octet of appearances, he laid the groundwork for a fruitful senior campaign. As a junior, McClure was consistently around the ball. He totaled 48 tackles with 31 solo tackles. He is somebody who can make an impact on the game and set the tone for the defense. [player_tooltip player_id="299647" first="Aaron" last="Mcclure"] has established himself as a big part of the Merrillville defense. Scouts should keep an eye on what McClure does this season.