Under the Radar 2025 Lake County Prospects
In this article:
In a county loaded with talent, we will take a look at a few players who impressed in their sophomore season. These athletes’ stocks are on the rise heading into their junior campaign as college programs across the country will…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingIn a county loaded with talent, we will take a look at a few players who impressed in their sophomore season. These athletes’ stocks are on the rise heading into their junior campaign as college programs across the country will battle it out for some of Lake County’s under the radar 2025 prospects.
Nelson impressed at multiple positions in his sophomore campaign for Stevenson. The 6’2, 195 lb Long Grove product was a wrecking ball last season. He showcased the raw ability and natural tools to become an elite edge rusher heading into his first varsity season. Nelson has phenomenal bend and a high motor that allows him to create pressure and chase down opposing quarterbacks. These skills allowed for Nelson to secure 19 sacks and 50 plus tackles on JV last year. Additionally, Nelson saw time at middle linebacker and tight end last year. As Nelson continues to grow and polish his technique, he should be a force for the Patriots in his junior season.
Highlights
Hudson Matiyow Hudson Matiyow 6'1" | 190 lbs | DB Barrington | 2025 IL
Hudson Matiyow Hudson Matiyow 6'1" | 190 lbs | DB Barrington | 2025 IL
In limited time on varsity for Barrington last season, Matiyow showed that he can handle the bright lights. The 6’1, 185 sophomore outside linebacker is ready to break out in his junior campaign. Matiyow showed off a variety of skills that every outside backer needs. He gets downhill quickly in the run game and finishes powerfully to drive opposing ball carriers backwards. He showcased the ability to play one-on-one coverage in the slot and reads the opposing quarterback’s eyes to hold down the curl in zone coverage. Additionally, Matiyow has the ability to close ground and make tackles in the open field. Taking on a bigger role for Barrington next year, Matiyow stock is on the rise.
Dey measures in at 5’11, 195 and contributed significantly for the Corsairs varsity team last year at running back. Dey is a shifty back, who possesses the vision, balance, and speed that should see him flying up recruiting boards heading to his junior season. Dey is a bouncy runner, meaning he can put his foot in the ground and use multiple juke moves that almost always results in the first defender missing the tackle. He has the natural ability to hit the hole with speed while also utilizing his vision that allows him to cut back on runs, forcing defenders to over run him. Not to mention Dey was incredible sound in pass protection. Keep an eye out for Dey in his junior campaign.
Highlights
The inside linebacker from Lake Forest lit up the stat sheet in his sophomore season. Dan accounted for 88 total tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 1 interception, and 2 defensive touchdowns in his first varsity season. Dan is incredibly instinctual. He can diagnose offensive run plays with ease and get downhill to meet the ball carrier at or behind the line of scrimmage. The 5’11, 200 lb plays extremely quick, meaning he is tough for offensive linemen to reach at the second level. Dan blitzes with urgency and always seems to be around the ball. Heading into his junior season, keep an eye out for Dan as he may finish the year as one of the top linebackers in the state.
Highlights
Nate Snep
Nate Snep
Snep is an impressive interior defensive linemen who made a big impact for the Bears last season on varsity. The 6’4, 250 Lake Zurich product terrorized opposing offenses last year in a variety of ways. Snep plays with fantastic leverage and delivers a powerful punch that allows him to knock opposing centers back in the run game. Snep is strong enough to split double teams and get flat down the line of scrimmage to make tackles in the backfield. He displays athleticism when pass rushing, which isn’t always an easy thing playing primarily from a 0 technique. Snep moves well laterally and showcases polished hands that allow him to win one-on-one pass rushing situations. Additionally, Snep plays with a high motor and doesn’t stop until the whistle is blown. Look for Snep to anchor the middle of Lake Zurich’s defensive line next season.