Top outgoing Seniors in the OK-Gold
The Ok-Gold isn’t discussed as much as some other Ottawa-Kent leagues, but it should be! This league holds eight great programs, with three of these programs having won or been in serious contention for a State Championship in the past…
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Continue ReadingThe Ok-Gold isn’t discussed as much as some other Ottawa-Kent leagues, but it should be! This league holds eight great programs, with three of these programs having won or been in serious contention for a State Championship in the past few seasons. This article will simply highlight much of the senior talent and discuss what they did so well this season!
Standouts
QB | Jake DeHaan | South Christian
There’s no way I could make an OK-Gold article without discussing DeHaan! DeHaan is known for his ability to run the ball, using his speed and quickness to evade defenders and pick up big gains. He is also a strong passer, showing the ability to make accurate throws and stretch the field with his arm. His overall want-to and toughness made him the face of this State Championship squad, and he will be an impossible player to replace. He’s fully cemented himself as a South Christian Legend!
QB/DB | Ryan West | Cedar Springs
West had a strong season as the starting quarterback for Cedar Springs, leading the team to a 5-5 record and a playoff berth. He is a good passer when the situation calls for it, showing the ability to make accurate throws and stretch the field with his arm. Most notably, West ran the T-Wing offense incredibly well. His running ability was great, with amazing fakes and blazing speed once he got into the open field. I’m actually more impressed with his defensive game, as West is known for his coverage skills and his ability to make plays on the ball. He has a nose for the ball and is always around the action. He also didn’t shy away from the run game! He has a few very impressive defensive highlights and will be a big missing piece for Cedar Springs next season!
TE/DE | Nathan VanTimmeren Nathan VanTimmeren 6'5" | 205 lbs | TE Grand Rapids Catholic Central | 2023 State MI | Catholic Central
On defense, VanTimmeren was a force to be reckoned with. He is a strong tackler, using his size and physicality to take down ball carriers. He is also quick off the ball, showing the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield. In addition, I like how smart he is. He did. a great job of reading opposing offenses. While watching his film, I was left feeling extremely impressed with his defensive game! Offensively, Nathan showed strong blocking ability, using his size and strength to create lanes for the running backs. He is also a reliable receiver, showing the ability to run crisp routes and get the yardage he can. At 6’5, 205lbs, and the output this season, he deserves a college football opportunity.
RB/LB | Bryson Kuzdzal | Forest Hills Eastern
Playing both Running Back and Linebacker, you know Bryson is as tough and strong as they come. As a running back, Kuzdzal is known for his ability to overpower opponents. He is a powerful runner, using his strength and physicality to break tackles and pick up big gains. Something that surprised me is how athletic he is! Bryson is able to get to open space, outrun defenders, and make nice subtle jukes. On defense, Kuzdzal is a force to be reckoned with, though he’s much more known for his RB skills! Kuzdzal will be walking on to Michigan, which I think is an amazing move. In the best-case scenario, he produces for the Maize and Blue and makes a name for himself in the Big 10. Worst case, he receives top-tier education and coaching, setting him up amazingly for potential transfer opportunities. If I were in Bryson’s shoes, I’d be walking onto Michigan without a doubt!
QB/S | Dustin Loomas | Wayland
Loomas was a vital part of Wayland’s turnaround this season! As a quarterback, Loomas is known for his shifty running style and his ability to throw deep. He is a dual-threat player who is tough to defend, and he has the ability to take over a game with his playmaking skills. He’s insanely slippery, and I would hate to try and tackle him. Defensively, he’s a gritty player that gives maximum effort. He was used well on defense, as he had a nice missile blitz out of his DB spot. His dual-threat abilities and his grit and tenacity made him a valuable asset for Wayland, and his creative touchdown celebrations undoubtedly made him a fan favorite!