WEEK 4: IL Stars of the Weekend (Part 1)
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The following 5 prospects from the Land of Lincoln put up monster performances in Week 4 of the IHSA Season. Jason Penza IL #169 QB #13 HEIGHT 6'2" WEIGHT 185 POS QB CLASS 2024 View Profile Jason Penza Twitter State:…
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Continue ReadingThe following 5 prospects from the Land of Lincoln put up monster performances in Week 4 of the IHSA Season.
Penza kicks off our Top Performer of the week, as the senior QB led Crystal Lake Central to a big conference victory over Burlington Central. Penza, who accounted for over 300 total yards and 3 touchdowns, got it done both in the air and on the ground. Penza threw for 290 yards and 2 touchdowns, while racing for 96 rushing yards and a touchdown. The 6’2 signal caller displays tremendous arm strength, a quick release, and boasts a 4.54 40 yard dash that shows up on Friday nights. Crystal Lake Central has bounced back the last 2 games after two close losses to begin their season.
Highlights
Casey Etheridge
Casey Etheridge
Etheridge is currently the state’s leader in rushing yards and touchdowns, totaling 810 yards and 12 TD’s, respectively. The Princeton running back continues to put up monster numbers week in and week out, averaging 202 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns per game. Last Friday, Etheridge continued this trend. The rising sophomore ran for 290 yards and 5 touchdowns. What makes Etheridge so good is his polished running style, as he has a rare combination of speed, shiftiness, and power that allows him to avoid or break tackles with ease. Etheridge is also an impressive linebacker. Coming into this season, most people probably haven’t heard of Etheridge. If he continues on this path, he’ll be a top name in the state in no time.
The junior wide receiver had a big night on Friday against Glenbard West, going for 178 receiving yards in a close loss for Lyons Townships. Stamm measures in at 6’2, 175 lbs. He is beginning to receive Division I interest. When you turn on the tape, its easy to see why. Stamm is a long and rangy wide out who makes tough catches look easy. He is a smooth route runner, who glides in and out of breaks to create separation from opposing defensive backs. Stamm exhibits plus body control, as he can adjust to the ball making sure he is the only one who comes down with it. Keep an eye out for Stamm to continue his big numbers throughout the season.
Highlights
Nick Irion
Nick Irion
Irion played a major role in Montini’s shut out victory over Benet. Irion, a rising junior who plays on the outside for the Broncos, posted 13 tackles, 6 of which were for losses. He also had 1 sack, 1 touchdown, and 1 fumble recovery in their big conference win. Irion was all over the field, showing off his elite tackling and high motor all night. Irion primarily plays outside linebacker and was impressive playing downhill. He is highly instinctual, sniffing out screens all night and racking up TFL’s. When blitzing, Irion bent the corner fluidly and tracked down the opposing quarterback. In coverage, Irion is smooth in his background and covers a lot of space in a hurry. Expect Irion to continue these game changing plays all season.
Dayvion Ellis
Dayvion Ellis
Ellis is a rising junior who makes an impact each and every Friday in a variety of ways. Last Friday, he racked up 3 touchdowns and 153 yards on 10 carries. Ellis primarily plays running back, but also impresses in the return game. Ellis led St. Viator to victory over St. Pats, as the speedy athlete is a homerun threat every time he touches the ball. He has phenomenal vision that allows him to quickly find open holes. Once he puts his foot in the ground, Ellis is gone. This vision, combined with his plus speed and elusiveness, makes him tough to stop in the open field. Keep an eye out for Ellis and his playmaking ability throughout the rest of the season.