Brian’s Twitter Evals
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When I usually group players for these Twitter evaluations, there is no rhyme or reason for who gets grouped with each other. The only real factor is when I come across a guy’s film. Unless there are two guys from…
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Continue ReadingWhen I usually group players for these Twitter evaluations, there is no rhyme or reason for who gets grouped with each other. The only real factor is when I come across a guy’s film. Unless there are two guys from the same school bunched together – I will put these out in the order I find them. So it was by chance that I came across five guys whose film – collectively – had me fired up for football to get started. I am not saying all of these guys are sure-fire All-State selections or DI prospects or anything. What I am saying is, as a guy who loves some of the finer points of football – these five guys were fun to watch.
What stands out immediately with James is his speed and length. His long striding style allows him to outrun angles defenders might think they have on him. It also helps him close on ball carriers when coming off the corner or closing in on a deep ball down the seam. What is most impressive about James is his strength. He doesn’t look like a guy who will run defenders over, but he will bounce off tackles if he doesn’t get wrapped up. He also plays all over the field – from receiver to defensive back to quarterback.
Noah Stommes
Noah Stommes
Stommes’ highlight package is one of the most enjoyable I have seen in a while. If the Eagles’ offensive lineman puts on some good weight this offseason – lookout. His lean frame looks like he would get overpowered, but Stommes uses such great technique that guys who look more powerful than him are constantly moved backward. Despite his height, his hip level is great, and he uses his low hips to power through the defensive lineman – most times straightening the defender up and moving him out of the play. As a defensive end, his pad level is good again, and he uses his length – specifically his long reach – to keep separation from blockers. His ability to hold the edge and keep blockers at an arms-length allows him to hold contain and string out plays to the sidelines, get off blocks, and attack.
Schmidt might be the most mobile offensive lineman in this class. If you need a guy to get out on a screen or pull across the formation – from the tackle position – the Scarlet big man is your guy. His agility in the open field is the most impressive thing he put on tape, but he is not a one-trick pony. Not surprisingly, he has extremely quick feet – allowing him to get into his pass sets fluidly and beat most defenders off the line of scrimmage. Being in good position and beating the defender to the spot is half the battle on the offensive line. Schmidt usually wins the second half of the battle with good strength, a great pad level, and footwork – often ending plays with the defender ten yards downfield or on his back.
Highlights
Sims gets the ball out as quickly as anyone when he likes his first read. He sets his feet and fires when he sees a matchup he likes. When he fires, there is plenty of zip on his throws. When the play breaks down – or if his own number is called – Sims’ breakaway speed would be impressive if he was a running back – much less a quarterback. His throwing motion – especially on the move – looks almost effortless. He is just as comfortable under center as in shotgun – something that is becoming increasingly rare in high school football.
Highlights
Nick Shade
Nick Shade
Shade adjusts well to the ball while in coverage on the outside. He plays the ball well in the air – using his athletic ability to highpoint the ball. He does a nice job shadowing routes and stays disciplined – not getting fooled on double moves. He gets out of his backpedal, plants his back foot, and accelerates toward the ball. Shade is not a cover-only defensive back. He is not shy about coming up hard to support the run. He will put his shoulder into runners and has nice tackling form.