Hickory Ridge vs. Independence – Offensive Standouts
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In a wild 75-49 Independence Patriots victory over Hickory Ridge, there were several offensive standout players: Jayden Jones Jayden Jones 5'10" | 175 lbs | RB Independence | 2026 State NC – Independence Jayden is a Class of 2026 prospect…
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Continue ReadingIn a wild 75-49 Independence Patriots victory over Hickory Ridge, there were several offensive standout players:
Jayden Jones Jayden Jones 5'10" | 175 lbs | RB Independence | 2026 State NC – Independence
Jayden is a Class of 2026 prospect who stands at 5’10 and 175 pounds. This young man has risen from a timeshare competition in the Patriots backfield to a rising star in the first two games of the season. He had five rushing touchdowns and over 220 yards on the ground in their victory. Add on to that an 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, and he accounted for over 300 yards of offense for the Patriots. He will be a player to watch over the next 3 years for sure.
Justin Little Justin Little 5'11" | 175 lbs | QB Independence | 2025 State NC – Independence
The Class of 2025 signal-caller has gotten off to a slower start than I’m sure he would like, but he was an important piece of the Patriots offense, running for a short touchdown and completing a 35-yard TD pass to wide receiver Reggie Hokes. I have liked his mentality, as he has shaken off the frustration of throwing some interceptions and has continued to lead the Patriot offense with great command and confidence.
Caden Haywood – Hickory Ridge
Great size at 6’5 and 220 pounds, Caden plays 3 sports at Hickory Ridge and he is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback. Although he is a baseball player first and foremost, it would be interesting to see if he could be a dual sport threat at the next level. As it stands, he threw 5 touchdown passes in this game to four different receivers and showed great touch and accuracy on all of those. He can complete passes to all levels of the field, and can really move for a big guy.
Dominic Testa Dominic Testa 5'10" | 180 lbs | WR JM Robinson | 2025 NC – Hickory Ridge
A 5’10 and 175-pound Class of 2025 prospect, he impressed at camps during the summer and has continued to do the same in the early part of this season. Operating out of the slot primarily, Testa had two touchdown catches against the Patriots in the first half. He shows excellent speed and route running, and strong hands to catch contested passes over the middle of the field.