Five Surprises From Lowcountry 7-on-7

Wes Kerr

July 2, 2022 @ 02:08 PM

Every 7-on-7 tournament provides a new set of names that show out on a big stage. And several Lowco hopefuls took advantage on a hot and rainy Thursday afternoon. Let’s go through the biggest surprises from Bluffton’s inaugural 7-on-7 event. Wyatt Tant | WR, LB | 6-0, 175 pounds | Bluffton | 2024 These events are made for new names to step up, and junior wideout Wyatt Tant had himself a day on his home field. The budding Bobcat sensation was outstanding on both sides of the ball, catching a pair of touchdowns and reeling in two interceptions. He made a beautiful catch in the corner of the end zone, using his vertical abilities and excellent hands to rise over a defender and make the grab. It was an impressive showing for Tant, who could prove to be an important part of a high-octane Bluffton offense with his athleticism and big-play potential. Donavan Loving-Howard | CB | 5-7, 135 pounds | Bluffton | 2024 A strong secondary could be a major boost to Bluffton’s defense this coming year, and junior Donavan Loving-Howard was dialed in on Thursday. The cornerback displayed his high speed and anticipation throughout the tournament including on a highlight-reel interception. Loving-Howard can read plays well off the snap and shows excellent patience to know when to make the stop. If he keeps up this high level of play, Loving-Howard should carve out a sneaky strong role for Hayden Gregory’s defense in 2022. Dylan Clark | QB | Hilton Head Christian | 2024 The Eagles have yet to decide who will become the replacement for Jace Blackshear under center, but Ron Peduzzi was impressed by the play of Dylan Clark. The rising junior played mostly defensive back and wide receiver last year, but he proved his potential under center in the tournament with some timely and accurate throws to move the chains against a deep and talented group of opposing defenses. He displayed a hunger to win out on the field and communicated well with his offense throughout the day. Thursday is a big step forward for Clark’s prospects of carving out a main role at quarterback. Samari Bonds | QB | Beaufort | 2025 Samari Bonds is looking like the frontrunner to replace Tyler Haley, and the sophomore quarterback put together a solid outing on Thursday. Bonds is poised in the pocket and has begun to show confidence throwing the football. He was extremely accurate on short and intermediary throws against some quality defenses and should come into this season as a game-manager who can also make impactful plays with his legs while getting the ball out to the skill positions. Jamar Knight | LB | Beaufort | 2023 With several key defensive pieces lost from last year’s team, Jamar Knight will be counted on to produce at linebacker. The rising senior was flying all over the field on Lybrand’s defense and made key plays to produce stops. Knight is a hard worker with the alertness and high motor to step up in big moments and should build on Thursday’s success as he prepares for his senior season.