Gridiron standouts on the Iron Range
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The iron range and the shores of Lake Superior are known more for high school hockey than high school football. That doesn’t mean the area doesn’t have talent on the gridiron and talent that is returning next season. These four…
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Continue ReadingThe iron range and the shores of Lake Superior are known more for high school hockey than high school football. That doesn’t mean the area doesn’t have talent on the gridiron and talent that is returning next season. These four underclassmen were selected to the All-Area team by the Duluth News Tribune.
Over 1,600 total yards and 25 touchdowns, 75 tackles, three interceptions, and four fumble recoveries
Perich is a long, impressive-looking athlete. As a defensive back, he made one of the best interceptions I have seen on film in a long time. Think the catch Odell Beckham Jr is known for but translate that to defense. He plays running back and receiver on offense, where he can highlight his great speed, but what separates him – figuratively and literally – is his ability to find another gear that most guys don’t have. That extra gear allows him to break away from defensive backs but also makes him a dangerous return man. It also allows him to close quickly on receivers and on running backs when supporting the running game. Despite his long frame, Perich delivers a punch when he hits people – supporting the run or lining up in the box coming off the edge.
Highlights
40 receptions and seven touchdowns
A great route runner, Menzel has a great release coming off the line of scrimmage. His footwork is high level, allowing him to come out of his breaks as crisply as you will see. While he has good speed, his footwork is what stands out. Those feet make him a tough guy to tackle in the open field. He adjusts well when the ball is in the air and doesn’t need a perfect ball to make a play. Menzel will line up wide, in the slot, and as a flexed tight end/wing.
1,535 rushing yards with 18 touchdowns
Schmidt has extremely quick feet. He has good speed, but when he cuts, he doesn’t slow down when he gets in and out of his cuts. I think it is impossible, but he looks like he uses his cutback to gain more acceleration. He uses that cutback ability well in the kicking game, too – making him a dangerous kickoff returner. Running backs can’t use those quick feet if they can’t find the cutback lanes. Schmidt has excellent vision and instincts – allowing him to utilize his quickness. While he doesn’t appear to be a significant contributor in the passing game, he can also be a threat as a receiver. Defensively, he comes off the edge well and uses great leverage when taking on blockers.
Three kickoff returns for touchdowns, 670 yards rushing, and eight touchdowns
Moore is one of the most dangerous kick returners in the state. Seeing how great his balance is – his three kickoff house calls were no surprise. He has good speed, but what stands out is his quick feet and somewhat surprising power based on his size. The junior is a fast cutback runner but also runs with a low pad level allowing him to bounce off tackles and power through arm tackles. Not just a runner, like Schmidt, Moore is a threat in the passing game too.