Best of the Best: Week 4 Defense

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We are halfway through the regular season, and the Class of 2024 has led the way towards creating an especially competitive year of HS football. I have been preaching that this is the best senior class I have covered, and it has shown up in the weekly results. It truly feels like any team can win going into every Thursday/Friday night. It isn't just the seniors though. The rest of the classes are doing their part and many younger individual athletes are also putting together impressive seasons. Before we prepare for the second half of the season, let's look back at the best defensive efforts from last week!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["405498"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 8 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Sack, 1 INTu003c/emu003ernrnThe senior LB out of Sturgeon Bay has been putting together a gritty season. He has played through a banged up ankle, and still finding ways to help his team wins. That includes making the clutch INT grab to win the Week 4 game vs Marinette. On the play, Mason drops into a zone, sees a man heading for his zone, and finds himself right in position to jump the route. Despite the injury, the 5'10u0022 215 lbs senior still chases plays sideline to sideline. Sacotte is a high motor, high effort player. This kid wants it.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c53ce"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15118052/64fc03fd5b3d5d159469561d' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5419"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["942706"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 7 Tackles, 1 TFLu003c/emu003ernrnBrady is looking like a force in the middle of the SP East DL. He won a lot of battles in Week 4 vs a talented Beaver Dam squad. They don't show up in the stat sheet, but the first thing that jumped out on tape was how much pressure  Brady was putting on the QB. Multiple times, the junior used a spin move to get off blocks and showed off the burst/closing speed to force the QB to get rid of the ball. Against the run, the NT proved he could dig in and hold his ground. Schauer would also do a consistent job of getting separation, disengaging, and making the tackle near the line. The 6'1u0022 270 lbs junior is developing a solid base of strength, quick twitch, and rush moves. I'm excited for his future.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5493"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16136934/64fbfb3b4206461028cba12f' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c54c7"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["685915"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 9 Tackles, 2 TFLs, 1 Sacku003c/emu003ernrnTerron doesn't have the prototypical size for the DE position, but I highly recommend turning on the tape. While facing a talented OL, Terron put on a show. He was very disruptive off the edge. He has crafted a dangerous blend of quickness and power. The two traits play off each other very well throughout the tape. Terron shoots out of his stance with violence, and transitions that speed into power. McCall uses leverage well too and that adds to his ability to bull rush and create penetration/disruption. The junior has very good range for the DE position also. He chases down plays downfield and out to the sideline. Terron was a disruptive force in Week 4. I'll be keeping a closer eye on his rest of season.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c553d"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/11412507/64fc9b1d5cb36216d4c53991' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5566"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["323153"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 7 Tackles, 2 PBUs, 1 INTu003c/emu003ernrnOne of the state's best cornerbacks stepped up big in the showdown with Middleton. The senior once again dominated in zone coverage. His recognition skills paired with his burst and agility always gives him the ability to be in position to make plays. His speed allows him to run deep with receivers, and his hips unlock, flip, and turn so fluidly and quickly. The standout senior possesses a complete game at cornerback, including run stopping talents. Garrison is aggressive when he reads run, and will fight through blocks to get to the ball carrier. He is a very reliable tackler in space too. I believe the very well rounded CB can play at a D1 level if he wants to. He plays with a lot of traits that you can't teach.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c55e2"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/15570363/64fcd47f3dea820a10dd668d' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5614"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["948125"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 5 Tackles, 1 PBUu003c/emu003ernrnI have been anxiously looking forward to checking out the up and coming safety out of Middleton. Oliver just wrapped up his second week at safety, and the quick film has me excited for his future. Right off the bat, I love that Wenning plays without hesitation when tackling. He flies downhill, and tries to run right through the opponent while wrapping them up. Too may times you see young athletes brace for contact. You don't see that here. Oliver also has the range needed to be an impact player at safety. Not only to fill against the run, but also pick up receivers running deep and go stride for stride with them in one on one matchups. I'm very excited to follow this kid's career. Make sure to have him on your underclassmen recruiting boards.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c569a"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/17775936/64fd125904281b0208bd8872' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c56c6"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["719863"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 13 Tackles, 4 TFLs, 1 FFu003c/emu003ernrnHe is only a freshman, so we are far from a finished product. However, the Racine Lutheran LB looks loaded with potential. First takeaway is how well Erik reads run plays, flows with the movement of the OL, and maintains his gap while filling and making the stop. He looks like a seasoned vet, not someone playing in his first year of HS football. While he still has plenty of growing to do, Erik is a reliable tackler who doesn't give ground after making contact. The freshman also does a good job of staying clean while navigating the front seven. I look forward to seeing where he debuts in the 2027 Rankings when we debut them after the season. It looks like a bright future ahead for the Racine Lutheran LB.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5718"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/19809644/64fdc3a13dea820a10df14e7' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5734"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"[player_tooltip player_id='1051941' first='Liam' last='Shaw']","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2025","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'3u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2406","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Muskego","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 5 Tackles, 1 TFL, 2 Sacksu003c/emu003ernrnThe state leader in sacks is a special talent coming out of Muskego. The 6'3u0022 220 lbs junior has been getting after the QB all season long. The Week 4 tape shows a talented prospect to go along with the elite production. Liam's first step and burst stand out on multiple highlights. Despite his long frame, Shaw is able to shoot through gaps before OL can cut him off. Further showing his impressive athleticism, Liam possesses the body control and agility to move laterally in the middle of his rush to make OL miss in one on one pass rush battles. The breakout junior also has the ability to bend while rushing the edge. That gives him leverage when using a long arm or bull rushing, and makes him a smaller target to land blocks on. I expect Liam to debut very highly in the 2025 Rankings. Check him out.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c57d1"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16229438/64fc0b1c5cb36216d4c4554d' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c57f1"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["270650"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"u003cemu003eStats: 3 Tackles, 2 INTsu003c/emu003ernrnThe two way senior (safety/WR) is flying under the radar, but has earned more of the spotlight recently. The senior has built a strong frame during the offseason in the weight room, and on the field he is looking more athletic than ever. Both of his INTs came from his ability to range out to the sideline from a single high safety position. Link does a good job of reading the eyes of the QB and closing once the QB commits to a target. That range also showed up against the run where he went from his safety position down to the line of scrimmage to make the stop. It is quick tape, but the flashes are there. Give the two way athlete a look.","_player_evaluations_0_evaluation":"field_62aba51aecf34","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5853"} /--> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/12472324/64fa9611da5b3b0ba8fd3c7c' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65022ca8c5871"} /--> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other Noteworthy Performances</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='700212' first='Max' last='Matthias'], LB/ATH- Two Rivers:</strong> <em>17 Tackles, 6 TFLs, 1 Sack</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1185800' first='Easton' last='Stone'], LB/RB- Rice Lake:</strong> <em>16 Tackles</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>TJ Mueller, LB- Crivitz:</strong> <em>2 Tackles, 3 TFLs, 3 Sacks</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Griffin Marko, LB- St. Croix Falls:</strong> <em>18 Tackles</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list -->