2A Neuse Conference Players We're Excited to Watch

Because there are plenty of conferences and regions throughout the state, it’s very important to take the time to dive into each one specifically, and to dissect each team for what they are. This allows for no stones to be overturned, and for the talent to be properly mined throughout the state. In doing so, it’s also very easy to recognize the top player for each team, as well as the best players in each region as a whole. Below, we took the time to find the top players for each team within the Neuse region. While this region may not be the most talented in the state, it still contains some of the more underrated prospects, who are still worth a look. Spring Creek- Dylan Davidson (FB) Davidson may not be the fastest, strongest, or most athletic player on his team, but he appears to be one of the more valuable returning players for Spring Creek. As a fullback, he displays the ability to lead blocks for ball carriers with efficiency, as he plays with good leverage in his blocks, further creating space, and good running room. In addition to this, Davidson also has a decent size and frame, which helps him to use his body efficiently, which is key due to him being a crucial part of his offense’s running game. Whole Davidson may not have the most fluid, and beautiful movement skills, he still gets up to speed decently well. Next season, we would like to see Davidson work on his overall footwork, speed, and the fluidity in his movement, as we think this will help him to improve as a ball player. Princeton High- [player_tooltip player_id="290621" first="Jake" last="Crocker"] (OL) Next season, Crocker is easily the most talented, and highly projected player that will be returning for Princeton High. He is not only a staple to the offensive line, but he plays with the tenacity, and power that you would like to see out of one of your key players. Off of the ball, he rolls his hips very well, and uses his leverage, hands, and length to his advantage, creating great blocks. Along with this, he also plays with great feet, while also adjusting to pass rushers at a good base. He does a decent job of avoiding bad bending, and he is just as efficient in pass protection as he is in run blocking. North Johnston High- Juan Mendoza (OL) While there is not much film on Mendoza, what we have found alludes to the fact that he is one of the more effective OL that will be returning for his team. When watching the small bits of film on him, it appears as if he gets off of the ball well, and uses his hands, and strength to create solid, and timely blocks. In addition to this, Mendoza also has a decent stance, and base that he plays out of, which is half the battle for players of his position group. Goldsboro High- Braxton Morton (LB) When watching Morton’s film, it is evident that he is a bit raw, but that he has a decent understanding of the game. He rolls his hips well on tackles, and he does a decent job of wrapping up, whether it is in the backfield, or in pursuit. Morton also does a great job of playing with physicality, and reacting to the run. One thing we would like to see improve most of all is his movement skills, and the way that he bends, and changes direction. If he can continue to grow, and improve in these areas, he will certainly see his level of production grow. Eastern Wayne- [player_tooltip player_id="241445" first="Zavian" last="Oates"] (WR) One of the things that stands out most about Oates is his ability to use his speed, elusiveness, and footwork to his advantage. With this being said, it can be added that his routes consistently put him in place to make solid catches, and plays after the catch as well. He not only creates good separation, but he appears to catch the ball cleanly with his eyes, and hands once the ball is in the air. In addition to this, Oates also has a good twitch with the ball in his hands, making it hard for the first tackler to stop him. Look for him to add on to these strengths next season, and to put up positive numbers for his team. Beddingfield High- Jelani Taylor (WR/DB) While Taylor may be a bit of a raw player, his film shows that he is used to playing a major part on both offense, and defense. Largely, this is due to the fact that he gets in and out of his breaks well, and because he changes direction quickly enough to put him in position to make plays on the ball, and gain yards after the catch. Even though Taylor has plenty to work on when it comes to his understanding of leverage, and solid route running, we still see upside in his game, and expect him to continue to be a big part of his team’s success in the future.