2025 Linebackers: Beast Mode

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>To be an elite linebacker, you have to be able to tackle, drop into coverage, and blitz at a high level all 48 minutes. These sophomores were able to stand out against some of the state's top seniors.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Taylor Higham || LB || 6'0 || 215 || Mountain Ridge High School || 2025</strong><br>Higham is an elite athlete who can wreck a game plan anytime he steps on the field. As one of the state's best pass rushers, he thrives attacking offenses off the edge. He does a good job staying low and getting his hands into offensive linemen's chest to drive them back. Higham can go through or around some of the state's top tackles showcasing elite strength and bend. He can play all over the front seven and uses his speed to make big-time stops. In addition, Higham has an excellent Football IQ and will often bat passes when he doesn't break into the backfield.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Brant Koford || LB || 6'0 || 220 || Fremont High School || 2025</strong><br>Koford was a bruiser in the middle of the Silverwolves defense. He flies to the ball like a heat-seeking missile and also excels at locating it. Koford is also an elite blitzer who utilizes his quickness to make plays in the opposition's backfield. His strength allows him to stand up blockers and stuff runs. Korford fearlessly fills holes and never backs down from a challenge. He has excellent instincts in coverage that help him create turnovers and deflect passes. The sophomore does a great job recognizing fakes and never seems to wear down. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kalvin Liavaa || LB || 6'0 || 205 || Alta High School || 2025 </strong><br>Liavaa is an exceptional pass rusher who beats offensive linemen off the snap with elite quickness. He can break into the pocket in the blink of an eye, and offensive linemen struggle to get a hand on him. Liavaa can win inside or outside and does a great job recognizing when an offensive lineman is oversetting. He has impressive bend, and few quarterbacks can outrun him. Liavaa is a phenomenal athlete who can play on or off-ball linebacker. He has an impressive vertical and good arm length. The Hawks linebacker is also stout against the run and wracks up tackles for loss all game long. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>McKay Wright || LB || 6'0 || 210 || Crimson Cliffs High School || 2025 </strong><br>Wright does a great job bringing down playmakers in the open field. He breaks down when needed or attacks full speed to create a big hit. Wright has sideline-to-sideline quickness he uses to contain opposing offenses ground games. As a blitzer, he times his rushes well and gets home more times than not. Once he diagnoses the play, he flies in to blow it up. He's a strong force for the Crimson Cliff's defense that can get past or go through offensive linemen to make plays. In coverage, he controls his zone and can capitalize on errant throws.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><br></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->