Summer Preview: 2022 Northwest Rankin Cougars
2021 didn’t go how the Cougars would have hoped. It was a year that began with four straight losses before getting their first win of the season the last Friday in September. Northwest was able to pull off back-to-back wins…
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Continue Reading2021 didn’t go how the Cougars would have hoped. It was a year that began with four straight losses before getting their first win of the season the last Friday in September. Northwest was able to pull off back-to-back wins over Terry and Warren Central before dropping the season’s final four games, finishing the season 2-8. The Cougars are looking to put the 2021 season behind them and take a big step in the right direction; this coming fall. Here are five players that could play a significant role in the Cougars looking to rebound in 2022.
Wesley White | 6’3″ QB | Junior
White is 6’3″ tall and 185 lbs; In 2021, White split time as the Cougars’ signal-caller in his sophomore season, finishing the year throwing for 854 yards along with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. In White’s sophomore year, he did more damage through the air than on the ground. He is best when he can sit back in the pocket and use his strong arm to move the ball down the field. The Cougars will lean heavily on the young signal-caller this coming fall.
Brendan Brown | 6’2″ WR | Senior
Brown is 6’2″ tall and 190 lbs; In 2021, Brown played the role of the number two receiver in the Cougar’s offense, finishing the year with 36 receptions for 557 yards with seven touchdowns. Brown used his junior year as a break-out season, showcasing his athletic abilities all over the field. He creates separation and space from the defender using his initial move from the line of scrimmage. Brown will play a significant role in the 2022 Cougars offense.
Javien Crump | 6’1″ WR | Junior
Crump is 6’1 “tall and 185 lbs; In 2021, Crump contributed to the Cougar’s offense in the passing game and played a significant role in the running game. He is one of the best downfield blocking receivers in the MHSAA. He is typically lined up in the slot position, creating a mismatch with the linebacker in the flats. Crump does a great job of helping his quarterback by adjusting his route and working his way back when his quarterback is in trouble. In his junior season in 2022, look for Crump to make a big jump and begin turning the eyes of college scouts.
Favian Key | 5’9″ LB | Senior
Key is 5’9″ tall and 165 lbs; In 2021, Key led the Cougar defense in tackles finishing the 2021 season with 38 total tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. He is a physical linebacker and plays the position with exceptional eye discipline. Key is good at defending the run and the pass, but he is at his best going downhill against the run. Key will be one of the anchors to the veteran Cougar defense returning in 2022.
Henley Steward | 6’0″ DE | Senior
Steward is 6’0″ tall and 210 lbs; in 2021, Steward was a dominant force on the Cougar’s defensive line. He was recorded 26 total tackles with 11 tackles for loss in the 2021 season. Steward is quick and physical off the ball, making it difficult for any single offensive lineman to block him. The opposing offense must consider where Steward lines up on every snap. Steward is a player that could find himself playing at the next level if he so chooses if he can duplicate another year like he had in 2021.