ATTN: College Coaches – ’24s with Next-Level Game – Part X
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24s with Next-Level Game – Part I ’24s with Next-Level Game – Part II ’24s with Next-Level Game – Part III ’24s with Next-Level Game – Part IV ’24s with Next-Level Game – Part V ’24s with Next-Level Game –…
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Continue ReadingIOWA CITY, Iowa – Iowa is becoming more fertile ground for college prospects with each passing year. It’s growing at a rate I didn’t see coming when I started covering preps in the state during the 1997 season.
Still, schools hesitate offering scholarships to some recruits. It could be that they’re flying under the radar, coaches may want to see them at junior days or camps, they speculate that a bigger program might swoop in for the player or a variety of other reasons.
The Class of 2024 guys listed below I saw in person this season or watched highlights and asked around. They should be getting more attention, and it could be coming soon:
Daniel Robinson, DL, Iowa City West – Robinson (6-3, 215) was limited to five games during the ’22 campaign. He produced 13.5 tackles (6 solo, 4.5 for loss) and 1.5 sacks in that time. Robinson has a solid frame with long-limbs and an ability to add weight at the next level. He’s athletic, quick and strong in small spaces. He sees the field well and gets to the ball consistently. Looking forward to seeing him perform for a full-season. He’s definitely someone who could pop in the fall if not before at summer camps.
Reece Vander Zee Reece Vander Zee 6'5" | 190 lbs | WR Central Lyon Rock Rapids | 2024 State IA , WR/DB, Central Lyon/George-Little Rock – Vander Zee recently reported a new scholarship offer from FCS national champion South Dakota State. Northern Iowa and Montana State, along with FBS Eastern Michigan, also have reportedly offered. The 6-5, 190-pounder helped the Lions win a state title last Fall with 32 receptions for 768 yards and 10 touchdowns. He produced four interceptions and 3.5 tackles for loss on defense. Iowa signee Zach Lutmer Zach Lutmer 6'1" | 180 lbs | DB Central Lyon/George-Little Rock | 2023 State IA (’23) often tossed the ball deep and Vander Zee jumped over defenders for catches, showing excellent hands and leaping ability. He moves well as a DB. I could see box safety or outside linebacker working out for him. Tight end might be his best path, however.
Garret Rutledge, OL/DL, Lewis Central – Rutledge (6-6, 280) looks the part with requisite size for Division I football. Watch the film and you see he’s more than just a big guy. Yes, he overpowers people, but he also displays athleticism, good technique and a mean streak that sees him playing through the whistle. This kid is a scholarship player with a nice ceiling. He visited Kansas in January. He’s on the radar. He could rise quick with a strong camp season.
Owen Thomas, LB, Lewis Central – Another member of the Titans’ talented program makes this installment. Thomas (6-3, 215) has the attention of the top FCS programs and some in the Power 5 as well. He racked up 67.0 tackles (42 solo, 13.5 for loss) with 5.0 sacks and an interception in helping his team reach the state title contest in ’22. He added 13 receptions for 122 yards and six touchdowns. While I would lean defense in the future, I could also see tight end. He’s an excellent athlete with a broad skill set. And, he has room to grow physically and as a player.
Curtis Horras Curtis Horras 6'2" | 175 lbs | WR Dowling Catholic | 2024 State IA , WR/DB, Dowling Catholic – Horras (6-2, 170) arrives at Dowling after playing at Colfax-Mingo in ’22. He caught 49 balls for 1,058 yards and 15 touchdowns while also delivering three interceptions and 2.0 tackles for loss on defense. He’s definitely a prospect at receiver with good speed, route running and hands. I think he has a chance on defense at the next level as well. It will be interesting to see him performing against more difficult competition in ’23. He also could rise on the camp circuit.
Jonah Reiling Jonah Reiling 6'4" | 280 lbs | OL Lisbon | 2024 State IA , OL/DL, Lisbon – Reiling (6-4, 270) plays with good energy and leg drive on film. He gets off the ball well and finishes blocks. He has a chance to climb the ladder in summer camps. He’s attracting attention from some strong FCS programs in the region and Iowa State already.
Kaden Amigon Kaden Amigon 6'0" | 185 lbs | ATH Columbus | 2024 State IA , ATH, Columbus – A small-school performer, some scouts might dismiss the competition. It does make projection and position identification more difficult. I think Amigon (6-0, 180) can play after watching film. He’s a problem in space. His coaches and teammates do a good job setting him up. His film is filled with long scoring runs and football speed. He averaged 11.8 yards per carry with 26 touchdowns in ’22. He also totaled 51 tackles (38 solo, 2.0 for loss).