Athletes Dominating the First 3 Weeks
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Use code Johnson30 for 30% off a new subscription! It is crazy to think that tomorrow will be Week 4 of the Illinois season already! Through these first three weeks I have been tagged in a lot of highlight tapes,…
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It is crazy to think that tomorrow will be Week 4 of the Illinois season already! Through these first three weeks I have been tagged in a lot of highlight tapes, and among them are season long highlights covering Weeks 1-3. Those are the videos we are focusing on today. We are going to dive into who has been dominating on a weekly basis. These will all be names to know for the next level, coaches. Let’s get things started with a QB off to a hot start!
The senior signal caller is off to a hot start in 2023! Carter has already piled up 441 passing yards and 6 TDs in the first three weeks of the season. The senior’s highlights are full of examples of his arm talent and ability to make throws off platform, without his feet set, or on the run. What really is impressive about his game is how accurate he can place the ball, even when not able to step into the pass. Magerski is also a mobile athlete who can avoid and move around the pocket or buy time outside the pocket. Give the tape a look!
Highlights
Gus Dammann
Gus Dammann
I really like Gus’ potential as a next level DL. He has a strong 6’2″ 250 lbs frame from his lower body out to his hands. Gus does a great job of consistently playing with leverage, and his heavy hands and powerful base partner with that leverage to give him the ability to bull rush his way into the backfield. Even if he doesn’t make the tackle, Dammann is able to create a lot of disruption, throw off timing, and impact plays. The big fella has quick feet too that help him get around blocks once he has created separation. He is able to slide laterally and burst past linemen after using his hands to get clean. The senior is disruptive in the trenches, and off to a great start in 2023.
Another senior DL putting together a great early senior season is Jack Gallier Jack Gallier 6’1″ | 255 lbs | DL Mahomet-Seymour | 2024 IL . Right away, the strength grabs your attention. Jack seems to almost bench press OL away from him, then uses his quick twitch athleticism to get around them and make the tackle. He is also able to get penetration and bull rush consistently from the interior which throws off plays and creates chaos even if he doesn’t get home. We saw that with the pressure that forced an INT. Gallier also has the football IQ for the position. A great example is his INT on the screen that he quickly sniffed out. The first step quickness and power are the major keys though. That is what is at the base of most of his top plays. He is a violent athlete on the interior of the DL. It is great to see that he is starting to see more offers roll in recently. He has earned it.
Highlights
Michael is off to a good start in his senior season. The center has tape through the first three weeks highlighting a lot of what you look for in a center. He has the power and quickness to get a good snap off and take on nose tackles. Michael can drive them off the ball with that stronger lower body. McLaughlin also does a good job when uncovered. He can reach DL or wash them down the line way from the play. Michael also has the range to get up to LBs and ensure the running lane is clear through the second level. I really like his potential on the interior at the next level. He has a good frame, strength, and range to continue to develop into a next level impact player.
I first became aware of Arthur when he came up to the PRZ WI Showcase. I liked what I saw then, and it is great to see that he is still improving. The QB has proven to be a dual threat, scoring 5 TDs through the air and on the ground for 10 total. The senior has a naturally strong arm. He can push the ball 30,40, 50 yards downfield without having to hitch or really step into it. The ball jumps out of his hand, especially when he needs it to on tight windows. The bodied QB, 6’4″ 215 lbs, is a physical runner as well. He powers his way through arm tackles and uses that contact balance to also stay up in the pocket when hit. Palicki also does a good job using that athleticism to pass. He doesn’t look to tuck it and run when pressured. He will buy time, stay poised, and keep his eyes downfield. This is definitely a hidden gem to take a look at.
Highlights
This kid is everywhere to start the season for Leo! DE, OLB, TE/WR. The 6’2″ 220 lbs athlete has an elite 6’7″ wingspan. Joshua is a menace off the edge on defense. He has the first step burst, range, and closing speed to be able to wide up wide and fly to the QB before the OTs can kick slide deep enough to cut him off. Burke also has nice lateral movement skills and is comfortable out in space making tackles and chasing down plays. The senior uses his length well too when he does have to engage while getting after the QB. On offense, Burke is a mismatch. He is too big for DBs and too agile and fast for LBs to stay with him beyond the short routes. Joshua offers a lot talent and uses for the next level. He is an athlete that deserves more attention.