7A Football: Each Region 3 Team’s Top Returning Player
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At face value, some of the programs within region 3 of 7A football in the state of Georgia can be deemed some of the powerhouse teams in the state, who have recently, or previously produced top tier power 5 talent…
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Continue ReadingAt face value, some of the programs within region 3 of 7A football in the state of Georgia can be deemed some of the powerhouse teams in the state, who have recently, or previously produced top tier power 5 talent on a yearly basis. Because of this, it is always fun to predict the top returners for each of these programs, as well as the potential production of individual players, and teams within region play. Because region play is so competitive, and typically produces incredible match ups, it is safe to never assume anything. Below, we have listed some of the top returners for each program, who we foresee being a beneficial factor for their teams moving into the 2022 season. If you take a moment to check them out, we doubt that you will be disappointed.
Harrison- Brady Kluse (WR)
Going into next season, Harrison football fans are excited to see the return of Brady Kluse, a 6’3, 180 pound WR who did damage on the offensive side of the ball for his team last year. Because of this, he has been highly anticipated as being the leading receiver for his team, just as he did in 2021. Last season alone, Kluse totaled 616 yards, and led the team with 6 receiving TD’s. Not only is Kluse very effective after the catch, but he does a great job of using his burst, length, and frame to overpower, and out-muscle opposing defenders. With this being said, he is very effective in contested situations, and he also does a good job of catching the ball cleanly, even when he just slightly stacks defenders.
Hillgrove- Chase McCravy (QB)
Next season, McCravy will be the top returning player for Hillgrove, and this should come as no surprise. Not only did he play at the QB position last year as a 2024 prospect, but he showed promise with his high level of production. While he may be a bit shorter and smaller in frame, we love his upside, as he does a good job of using his feet to buy him space to see the field. From here, he does an okay job of seeing the field, but his talent truly comes in handy with the way he is able to get the ball out with a solid release, with good ball placement. McCravy is also the leader of the offense, and has a decent understanding of the scheme, as seen by his ability to finish plays in a timely manner, and make quick decisions. While he may be a bit inconsistent with intermediate throws, we also believe that there is plenty of room for growth for a young prospect his age. Going into next season, look for him to continue to progress as a passer, and to be a top player for his team.
Marietta- Jace Arnold Jace Arnold 5'6" | 121 lbs | DB Marietta | 2023 State GA (DB)
As you could expect, we here at PrepRedzone believe that Arnold will be the top returner for Marietta next year. He will certainly be one of the keys to his defense’s success because he will be one of the building blocks for Marietta’s secondary, as he will likely be the one matching up with the top receivers in the region. When evaluating Arnold, one may see that his ability to play defense seems to come naturally. Not only does he move very fluidly, but he does a good job of getting in and out of his breaks, changing direction, as well as shadowing the movement of opposing receivers. In addition to this, Arnold also plays a very physical, and fast brand of football, which contributes to his success, including the way he is able to properly position his body to make plays. Arnold also has good footwork, and his burst is very solid for his age, which will likely attract college recruiters.
McEachern- Makari Bodiford Makari Bodiford 6'0" | 210 lbs | RB McEachern | 2024 State GA (RB)
Last season, as a young player, Bodiford led his team in rushing yards, and was one of the biggest reasons his team made it to the post season. By the end of last season, not only did he accumulate more than 700 yards, but he also totaled 12 TD’s on the ground. A big reason for Bodiford’s success is due to the fact that he also efficient receiving the ball out of the backfield, which constantly disrupts defenders, causing the defense to be unbalanced. Bodiford also runs with a head full of steam, with an aggressive lower body drive, and physicality. This balance and physicality helps him to finish runs, plow through defenders, and gain the hard yards. With this being said, his ability to run through contact is a huge advantage, and we firmly believe he will help lead his team in positive ways next season.
North Paulding- Harry Brooks (WR)
Brooks may not have seen the ball as much last year as many fans would have hoped, but his upside as a returning receiver is very high. Not only does he have a long frame, but he appears to have decent route running ability as well. When running routes, he transitions out of his breaks well, and has decent feet. While we would like to see more aggression when he breaks at the top of his route, he appears to play with good balance, and fluidity. Brooks also does a good job of stacking the defender, which we think will be huge in helping him to continue to gain the same kind of separation from defenders next season. As the 2022 season approaches, we would like to see Brooks improve his overall speed, and the way that he catches the ball cleanly with strong hands.