Class of ‘23 Breakdown: Athletes

In this fourth installment in the Class of ’23 Breakdown series we transition away from defensive prospects to focus on some of the game changers in the rankings. The group of athletes in this class are a talented bunch, which is why there are 20 of them ranked inside the Top 150 and 38 ranked overall. This group of five in particular has a lot of upside, and their play will be important to their programs’ success this season. [player_tooltip player_id="166975" first="Jaden" last="Mitchell"] – Wichita Collegiate, 5’11”, 175 When we first mentioned Mitchell in the second Class of ’23 Watch List, he was highlighted for his standout play as a return man during the 2020 season. In that same article it was mentioned how Mitchell could potentially become one of the Spartans’ top offensive weapons during the ’21 season. This prediction came to be true, as Mitchell was used in a variety of ways and ended up earning an All-AVCTL D-IV Honorable Mention nod. Mitchell’s sprinter speed makes him a difference maker and adds another dimension to the Spartans’ offense. He’s capable of turning a jet sweep or a flat route into a huge gain. If he beats defenders to the edge, he’s more than likely on his way to the end zone. His skills as a slot receiver, running back, and return man should intrigue several recruiters. <a href="http://www.hudl.com/video/3/10123060/618b098ed45ecc0da010d209">http://www.hudl.com/video/3/10123060/618b098ed45ecc0da010d209</a> [player_tooltip player_id="123617" first="Isaac" last="Detweiler"] – Axtell, 5’11”, 170 The development of Detweiler’s game has been tremendous. Detweiler had a great year in 2020, but he turned things up a notch as a junior. He and the Axtell Eagles had a phenomenal season in 2021. They ended the year undefeated at 13-0 and won the 8-Man D-II State Championship. Isaac absolutely dominated as he was responsible for over 3,200 yards of total offense and 63 total touchdowns. On top of this, he racked up 100 total tackles and seven interceptions. Detweiler fits the phrase “plug and play” perfectly. He has multiple roles on the field and he’s had success at each one. Offensively he’s a tough runner that can rack up yards after contact, and he can extend plays when he’s called on to throw. On defense he’s a ballhawk that can quickly jump a pass, and he’s a sure tackler. Don’t be surprised to see Detweiler earn another Offensive Player of the Year award this season. <a href="http://www.hudl.com/video/3/12831059/61a6f95dc1250b0670e5cdd2">http://www.hudl.com/video/3/12831059/61a6f95dc1250b0670e5cdd2</a> [player_tooltip player_id="244973" first="Riley" last="Marx"] – Andale, 6’1”, 210 Marx recently made his debut in the December update as the 10th ranked athlete in the class and 88th ranked prospect overall. His strong play during his junior year earned him this high ranking, but he has the potential to climb even higher in the next update. Marx racked up multiple accolades at the end of the season, as he was a 1st Team 3A All-State selection at defensive end and was a 3A All-State Honorable Mention pick at fullback. The best way to describe Marx’s play style is fast and downhill. At fullback, he does a great job of keeping his pad level low and dishes out some devastating blocks. When his number is called to run, Marx is plowing through at least two defenders. On defense, he plays with a high motor and has a few moves at his disposal to get past offensive linemen. <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2GYc4X">http://www.hudl.com/v/2GYc4X</a> [player_tooltip player_id="166972" first="Caleb" last="Wiese"] – Garden City, 6’3”, 200 The Buffalos are a team that typically favors getting multiple players involved offensively. But during the ’22 season; Wiese could be heavily used in their flexbone offense. In addition to this, he’ll also be one of Garden City’s top defenders. During his junior year, Wiese accounted for over 500 yards of total offense and eight total touchdowns, and on defense he racked up 81 total tackles with three interceptions and eight pass breakups. His play at safety earned him a 6A All-State Honorable Mention selection. The 19th ranked prospect could have a bright future in the secondary. Wiese now has two years of experience under his belt, and he’s only going to improve. His frame makes him a valuable asset. He has the length to not only cause deflections, but to also go up and win 50/50 balls. Wiese can also come down in the box and fill in at outside linebacker. <a href="https://www.hudl.com/video/3/11708184/6183e6ccd225700cf0d8caf9">https://www.hudl.com/video/3/11708184/6183e6ccd225700cf0d8caf9</a> [player_tooltip player_id="35678" first="Isaac" last="Klug"] – Newton, 5’11” 175 Klug predominately lined up out wide during his junior year, but with a few pieces graduating from Newton’s offense; he could be asked to take on a larger role as a senior. Which wouldn’t be a problem for him. He provided a much needed spark for Newton anytime the ball was in his hands. This led to Klug taking home a 2nd Team All-AVCTL D-I selection. His stock could significantly rise as he continues to receive some interest from a few D-I and D-II programs. Klug’s film is filled with exciting highlight worthy catches. A few things he does well is adjusting his body to the ball and making tough grabs. Whether a ball is under thrown or a bit outside; Klug manages to quickly track it and puts himself in position to haul it in. Klug is also a sharp route runner. He does a great job of getting separation from defenders at the top of his route. <a href="http://www.hudl.com/v/2GFuN8">http://www.hudl.com/v/2GFuN8</a>