Hit Your Marc GOW: L.D. Bell vs Crowley
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In a thrilling Friday Night matchup, L.D. Bell faced off against Crowley High School in a District 3-6A contest that showcased outstanding talent and fierce competition. The clash between these two teams left spectators on the edge of their seats,…
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Continue ReadingIn a thrilling Friday Night matchup, L.D. Bell faced off against Crowley High School in a District 3-6A contest that showcased outstanding talent and fierce competition. The clash between these two teams left spectators on the edge of their seats, it wasn’t decided until late in the fourth quarter. The Crowley Eagles out lasted the Blue Raiders 27-20 and the performances of several key players added to the excitement.
The defensive end, committed to Texas State, showed off his prowess on the field with relentless pressure on the quarterback and his ability to make plays in the opponents backfield. His presence in the trenches made it difficult for L.D. Bell’s offense to find their rhythm. Ashe has a long, lean, athletic frame at 6’4 240 pounds, he was a disruptive force against Bell, ending the game with four sacks and his constant pressure was a key in the second half to hold Bell from scoring late in the fourth quarter. He plays fast, Ashe has an explosive get off and his ability to win one on one matchups enabled him to cause havoc the entire contest. Ashe left no doubt why he is one the top defensive players in his class and the DFW area.
Johnson, who committed to UTSA, showcased his skills on the defensive side of the ball against a stout Crowley offensive line. Tristan’s ability to disrupt plays and apply pressure on the opposing team’s offense was a testament to his future potential at the collegiate level. At 6’3 260 pounds, Johnson has a college ready frame, he has broad shoulders with a powerful, thick, lower trunk and his extended reach allows him to unleash his violent hands. Tristan was disruptive all game long for L.D. Bell, making plays behind the line of scrimmage and this made things difficult for Crowley in the second half. Johnson has the potential to head to San Antonio and earn playing time in 2024.
Caleb’s play was brilliant and he stole the spotlight with an exceptional first-half performance. Williams exhibited a strong arm with great touch on his deep ball, he displayed the arm talent to push the ball outside the numbers and this allowed him to make precise throws to his targets. Caleb is an elusive runner, displaying the skill set to avoid defenders with his speed outside the pocket and this allowed him to get first downs to extend drives in the game. His three touchdowns in the first half electrified the crowd and kept L. D. Bell’s defense off balance early in the game. Williams has been a key cog in leading the Eagles offense this season. The junior signal caller has shown poise, calmness and maturity which will be key as the Eagles look to challenge for the district title in 3-6A.
Steele was instrumental in L.D. Bell’s second-half resurgence. His exceptional range, field awareness are traits that stick out in his game. These attributes lead to him deflecting a crucial pass to halt a Crowley drive late in the fourth quarter, demonstrating his importance in the defensive lineup. Steele is a ballhawk who is a great tackler, he comes up in run support taking superb angles to the ball carrier and his ability to cover ground as well being a sure tackler, show his value within the L.D. Bell secondary. He picked up an offer from Howard Payne this past offseason and he should have more suitors for his services as the season progresses.
Highlights
Despite LD Bell’s loss to Crowley, Jones had a stellar game. Caleb recorded 11 tackles, a sack, 2 fumbles recoveries, while consistently applying pressure on passing downs and even managed a strip sack with a fumble recovery. Jones lines up at multiple linebacker positions, which enables him to attack offenses from multiple angles. Jones showcased his tenacity and determination, leaving a lasting impression that he will be a force all season for the Blue Raiders. At 6’0 210 pounds, Jones has a stout frame, he reads his keys quickly and he closes on the ball carrier ferociously. Caleb has interest from several college programs such as UT-Permian Basin and Midwestern State. He would be a valuable addition to a program looking for a defensive playmaker.
Highlights
Blake was a game changer for the Crowley Eagles. Jonathan’s fierce tackling and run support were crucial in containing L.D. Bell’s offense for most of the game. However, it was his game-sealing interception in the fourth quarter that solidified his status as a defensive player with value for the Eagles. Blake has great instincts, his field vision from his safety position enabled him to make a late interception in the fourth quarter and this showed that he has the range to cover ground quickly. Jonathan has a nose for the football and he laid the boom several times bringing crowd to it’s feet. Blake has the skill set to play at the next level, picking up offers from Mississippi Valley State and Montana State.