2024: Dominant Defensive Lineman

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>These four players are some of the state's toughest run-stoppers and pass-rushers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406974' first='Ian' last='Mariner'] || DL || 6'1 || 275 || Skyridge High School || 2024 </strong><br>Mariner was a key component to the Falcon's 2022 state championship run. His presence on the interior allowed his teammates to feast while offenses were forced to double-team him. Mariner quickly explodes off the snap and keeps a low pad level. He does an excellent job of gaining and maintaining leverage. Mariner does a good job taking on double teams and can split them to make tackles for loss. In addition to his elite ability to clog up the middle of the field, Mariner is a strong pass rusher who uses his hands well to create interior pressure.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='406961' first='Kash' last='Dillion'] || DL || 6'5 || 205 || Corner Canyon High School || 2024</strong><br>Dillion is our top edge rusher in the class of 2024. His bend and athleticism are exceptional. Dillion also has long arms he uses to bat down passes and drive offensive linemen into quarterbacks' laps. In addition, he has a bevy of moves he can throw at offensive linemen. Dillon's first step is among the best in the state, and he can beat blockers out of their stance. In addition to his prowess as a pass rusher, Dillon is also a strong run defender and does a good job setting the edge. Dillon has a motor that won't quit, and he could lead the state in sacks in 2023.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='532701' first='Falanisi' last='Vaka'] || DL || 6'0 || 350 || Stansbury High School || 2024 </strong><br>Vaka was a force up front for the Stallions. He helped Stansbury have the state's top offense and one of the best defenses while playing both ways. Vaka played defensive tackle and defensive end for Stansbury, where his elite strength and athleticism made him tough to move. He has one of the state's top bull rushes and gives little to no ground when taking on double teams. Vaka controls his gap and doesn't let running backs escape his grasp. He moves well laterally and can create havoc up front for offenses.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='532685' first='Papa' last='Matelau'] || DL || 6'0 || 245 || East High School || 2024 </strong><br>Matelau is one of the state's quickest players off the snap. His first step is lethal and allows him to beat offensive linemen out of their stances. Mateaul has the speed and athleticism to split double teams. He's a powerful pass rusher with a good bend and a tremendous rip move. Mateaul can win inside or out with his quick hands and feet. He never gives up on a play and won't stop chasing quarterbacks till he's dropped them for a sack. Mateaul has a great Football IQ and does a good job taking advantage of oversetting offensive linemen by exploding through inside gaps.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->