3A/4A West Conference Players We Look Forward To Seeing In 2022
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Out of the entire state of North Carolina, the West Conference happens to be one of the deepest pools of talent. This is largely due to the fact that this region encompasses the Charlotte, and greater Charlotte area. In this…
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Continue ReadingOut of the entire state of North Carolina, the West Conference happens to be one of the deepest pools of talent. This is largely due to the fact that this region encompasses the Charlotte, and greater Charlotte area. In this area lies plenty of powerhouse, and talented schools, including the likes of Hough, Chambers, and Mallard Creek. Each of these schools typically see a high level of talent each season, and we expect this upcoming season to be just the same. Below, we included some of the most talented players in the conference, who we happen to be excited to see play.
Hopewell- Edward Johnson (QB)
Going into next season, we look forward to seeing Johnson’s impact on his team, and his ability to lead an offense. Last season, when he stepped on the field for his team he showed that he could throw with ease, and accuracy at various levels of the field. Even though his footwork and mechanics are a bit raw, he gets the ball out quickly, and he sees the field effectively. He may not have the strongest arm, but his athleticism opens up the field a good bit for his offense. Next season, we would like to see him work on his overall timing, and delivery of the football, as we think that this will help him as he looks to be a leader for his team. Nevertheless, we expect big things from Johnson, and a bright future for his team’s offense.
Hough- Tad Hudson Tad Hudson 6'3" | 205 lbs | QB Hough | 2023 State NC (QB)
While there are plenty of aspects of his game that we would like to see him work on, we do feel that Hudson is one of the better talents at the quarterback position within his region. Not only does he place the ball incredibly well on deep and intermediate routes, but he also gets the ball out of his hand pretty quickly, into the correct read. He has raw footwork at times, but his feet are quick enough for him to get out of the pocket, and escape trouble as needed. In addition to this, Hudson may not have the flashiest or the strongest arm, but it is strong enough to execute in an efficient manner. He hits his receivers in stride, and he throws with good timing and anticipation. Look for next season to be huge for his development, especially ahead of his future with UNC.
Chambers- Daylan Smothers Daylan Smothers 6'0" | 185 lbs | RB West Charlotte | 2023 NC (RB)
Even though most people already know, Smothers is one of the most talented players in the entire state, and probably the most talented player in the entire region. This can be seen every time he touches football, as he seems to score touchdowns with ease. He is quick and light on his feet, and he is able to change direction on a dime, allowing him to make his way to the second level of the field in a timely manner. Smothers also does a good job running through the tackles due to his solid vision, and he also uses his long speed, and burst to finish plays. This upcoming season, expect him to add on to his successful resume, and to decide where he chooses to play at the next level.
Mallard Creek- Michael Short Michael Short 6'3" | 215 lbs | LB Mallard Creek | 2023 State NC (LB)
Short may not have the offers that he deserves yet, but he already has proven to be one of the better defensive players in the entire region. Not only does he already play with elusiveness and quickness, but he is able to turn the corner on a dime. This can be seen by the way that he makes tackles in pursuit, as well as in the backfield against ball-carriers. In addition to this, he also moves very smoothly, and he bends incredibly well, and transitions his weight into tackles very effortlessly. With this, Short also rolls his hips, uses his hands, and is not afraid to lower his shoulder. Look for him to continue to do so next season, and to receive more attention from college programs due to this.
North Mecklenburg- Jahalini Biddersingh (WR)
Even though Biddersingh did not have the most flashy season, he still happens to be very effective for his team, and we expect him to continue to do so next season. Last year,he totaled over 575 yards, and had an average of 17 yards a catch. In addition to this he also averaged around 72 yards a game and he had a total of 5 touchdowns by the end of the season. Because she is this effective for his offense, we expect him to continue to add on to this productivity next season, and to be one of his team’s key playmakers.
West Charlotte- Darion Rivers (DL)
There is plenty to like about Rivers when you turn on his film. Not only does he have a long explosive frame, but he gets off the ball extremely well, with speed that is hard to defend. He pressures the passer with efficiency, and also wraps up well on sacks, and when making tackles on a ball carrier. Rivers proves to turn the corner incredibly well, and he uses his hands and arms efficiently to create separation when engaging with offensive linemen. Next season, we would hope to see him add weight to his frame, and to continue to add to his explosiveness and ability to make big plays.
West Mecklenburg-Neko Brown (DB)
Going into next season, Brown is one of our favorite underrated defensive backs, and we believe that he has a lot to prove, and that he will shine next season when given a chance. Not only does he high point the football very well when it’s in the air, but he plays extremely well in space, proving to make plays in zone phone coverage. Do not let this fool you though, as he does a good job of playing in man coverage as well, as he shadows movement, and gets in and out of his breaks efficiently. We also like the way that he flips his hips, and allows his speed to help him make plays on the ball. Look for next season to take him to the next level.