Season in Review: Midlothian Panthers
If you take a short drive 30 minutes south of Dallas, you will find Midlothian, home of the Class 5A Panthers. Led by Vandy-commit running back Deago Benson and quarterback Chad Ragle, they entered the season eager to capitalize on…
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Continue ReadingIf you take a short drive 30 minutes south of Dallas, you will find Midlothian, home of the Class 5A Panthers. Led by Vandy-commit running back Deago Benson and quarterback Chad Ragle, they entered the season eager to capitalize on the momentum from their 8-5 campaign in 2021. They got out of the gates hot, starting 8-0 for the first time since 1984 – and showing the rest of DFW that they had arrived on the state scene. Their talent was on full display in a couple of 50+ point shutouts, won close contests over district rivals Killeen Shoemaker and Lake Belton, and before they knew it, found themselves in Round 3 of the playoffs versus perennial powerhouse Aledo. Although the Panthers came up just short, 27-21, they proved that they belong in the conversation among the best of the best 5A programs in the state.
In this article, we will take a look at a handful of unsigned seniors who played pivotal roles in the team’s success.
OT Tyler Ethridge – 6’5″ 275 / @TylerEthridge92 (Senior – Class of ’23)
Ethridge is a Division 1 prospect who has been overlooked. He is a tremendous athlete who is capable of developing into a starting left tackle at the next level. His hands are consistently inside, he plays with proper pad level versus the run, and his kick slides and pulling ability are certainly FBS-ready. He possesses the frame to add 20 pounds, and will further refine some of his technique over his freshman season. Should be on the boards of big programs as they look to round out their signing classes in the next month.
Currently has two junior college offers, among others.
DT Bryce Starlin – 6’0″ 285 / @Bryce_Starlin (Senior – Class of ’23)
An undersized interior defensive lineman, Starlin has what it takes to develop into a starter for a smaller program. He’s stout versus the run and surprisingly nimble in his pass rush. It remains to be seen if he will be able to consistently hold up when matched up against bigger guards, but there is a lot to like about one of the better defensive line prospects in the DFW metroplex.
OLB Julian Lofgren – 6’1” 200 / @JulianLofgren (Senior – Class of ’23)
Lofgren will need to move to outside linebacker at the next level, but similar to Starlin, he has what it takes to eventually become a starter at a small school. He’s relentless in his pass rush and gives 110% each and every play. Will need to bulk up a bit and develop some more burst off the line, but he has all the makings of a very talented outside backer for the four years to come as a college player.