6 Of Indiana’s Best Defensive Performances In Week 2
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Tyrone Burrus Jr Tyrone Burrus Jr 6'3" | 205 lbs | DL Warren Central | 2025 State IN – Warren Central – DE – 6’4″ 220lbs – 2025 Burrus is one of the most freakish athletes up front in Indiana.…
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Continue ReadingTyrone Burrus Jr Tyrone Burrus Jr 6'3" | 205 lbs | DL Warren Central | 2025 State IN – Warren Central – DE – 6’4″ 220lbs – 2025
Burrus is one of the most freakish athletes up front in Indiana. I’ve seen him in person, I’ve seen him work, and I’ve spoken to him a few times. His hungry mentality is infectious and is starting to show on new levels on Friday nights. This last Friday, Carroll and Warren Central went at it. Burrus was going 1 on 1 against one of the best Tackles in the state and got the better of him a few times. He’s explosive off the edge and collapses the pocket well. He can flush them out of the pocket and stay stride for stride. He had 5 TFLs, 2 sacks, 4 hurries, and 2 PDs this past week and was all over the tape. Burrus has picked up quite a bit of traction over the past 6 months, but if he plays like this on the regular, he’ll be a household name.
Twitter: @Tyrone_Burrus
Ralph Rogers Ralph Rogers 6'0" | 190 lbs | LB Bloomington South | 2024 State IN – Bloomington South – LB – 6’0″ 190lbs – 2024
Rogers, the linebacker known for his exceptional tackling skills, continues to shine on the field. In the recent Friday night game, he showcased his remarkable athleticism and field awareness, consistently making impactful plays. As a senior, Rogers’ experience is evident because he’s so confident on the field and is 1 step ahead of the offense. Right now, he leads the state with an impressive 37 tackles, 25 of which are solo tackles. His development over the years has been as steady as his play on the field. He’s someone who can come in and make an impact much sooner than later. Rogers is an impressive athlete who I’ve enjoyed covering over the years and has always lit up the stat sheet while looking great doing it.
Twitter: @RalphRogers2005
Lamar Moore Lamar Moore 6'2" | 200 lbs | LB Greencastle | 2024 State IN – Greencastle – LB – 6’2″ 200lbs – 2024
Moore stands out as a notably lengthy athlete, utilizing his long strides to his advantage on the field. What makes Moore particularly promising is the combination of his impressive frame and athletic ability, hinting at substantial untapped potential. He’s great when coming downhill and is playing with an edge to him that ignites the guys around him. He’s 2nd in the state with 24 solo tackles and seems to be getting better. Moore’s skill set suggests he could excel in coverage at the next level as well, just would likely need some cleaning up first. However, he’s great on the ball and does a good job creating penetration and getting into the pocket. Moore’s longterm potential seems to be pretty high and shouldn’t be understated.
Twitter: @24LMoore
Cannon Brunes Cannon Brunes 5'11" | 205 lbs | ATH Western Boone | 2024 State IN – Western Boone – LB – 5’11” 220lbs – 2024
Brunes’ career has progressed steadily, but his recent surge in production truly highlights his athletic capability and impact on the game. His effectiveness as a ball carrier is clear, with a remarkable 189 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns on the ground through 2 games, You’d think that was enough. However, what sets Brunes apart is his versatility. Defensively, he demonstrates a keen sense of adaptability, coupled with an impressive ability to penetrate and disrupt plays. He’s been all over the field and unstoppable to this point. They’re 2-0 and he’s a big reason why. The defense is 1 step ahead and making the simple plays without making the boneheaded mistakes. Having Brunes lead the way is elevating everyone around him. This is reflected in his impressive performance this year, including 28 tackles, 11 TFLs, and 2 sacks, added to his offensive contributions. 19 of those tackles came this past Friday, along with those 2 sacks. I’m a big fan of Brunes and hope he gets the opportunity he deserves.
Twitter: @CannonBrunes3
Tyshawn Woodson Tyshawn Woodson 6'0" | 200 lbs | LB Lawrence North | 2024 State IN – Lawrence North – LB – 6’0″ 200lbs – 2024
Woodson’s development has been a gradual yet impressive journey over the years. As a solid athlete, he brings a notable physicality to the game. His ability to seamlessly transition between physical play and a more off-the-ball style adds to his versatility. I say that with quite a bit of substance behind it as he’s literally been all over the field over the first 2 weeks. He’s secured 10+ tackles in both games. His contribution extends to 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception, and 7 TFLs. He’s getting to the QB with ease and making the offense acknowledge that he’s coming after them. With everything he’s doing on the field, it’s hard to not be intrigued with what he can do long-term in the right program.
Twitter: @TyshawnWoodson1
Nash Keesling Nash Keesling 5'11" | 170 lbs | LB Delta | 2025 State IN – Delta – LB – 5’11” 170lbs – 2025
Keesling seems to be bursting onto the scene after a developmental first 2 years. He’s playing confidently and being aggressive where it matters. He’s currently tied for the state lead with 4 sacks through 2 games. Additionally, he’s got 5 TFLs and over double-digit tackles. He’s never had more than 10 tackles total in a year before this one. He’s on the field making plays and getting better and more confident each drive he steps on the field. He’s a good athlete who can bend and get around the tackle as well as win inside. On top of his sacks and tackles, he’s forced a fumble and deflected a pass as well. It’s cool to see a guy breakout right in front of you, and that’s exactly what Keesling is doing. I’d love to see him keep stacking because if this is just the beginning, he could be dynamite.
Twitter: @KeeslingNash