West Charlotte at Mallard Creek – Defensive Standouts
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The West Charlotte Lions defeated the Mallard Creek Mavericks 17-15 in an intense conference game this past Thursday Night. Let’s take a look at some defensive standouts from both teams: Jaden Smith Jaden Smith 6'3" | 200 lbs | LB…
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Continue ReadingThe West Charlotte Lions defeated the Mallard Creek Mavericks 17-15 in an intense conference game this past Thursday Night. Let’s take a look at some defensive standouts from both teams:
Jaden Smith Jaden Smith 6'3" | 200 lbs | LB West Charlotte | 2024 State NC – West Charlotte – The Michigan commit stepped up on the biggest play of the game – a 4th and goal-to-go situation from the 1/2-yard line. Smith tackled the ball carrier three yards deep in the backfield and sealed a victory for his team. His speed off the edge and running down plays from the backside of formations are major assets for his game. He also blocked a potential go-ahead field goal on the drive before the game-ending drive for the Mavericks. He finished with a total of 12 tackles in the game.
Dequinder Williams – West Charlotte – The Charlotte commit also stepped up big in the 4th quarter when the game was on the line. On Mallard Creek’s first possession of the 4th quarter, Dequinder came up with an interception to keep points off of the board for the Mavericks. On Mallard Creek’s last possession of the game, Williams was able to chase down a receiver who was on a streak to the endzone and tackle him on the two-yard line. Because of that hustle, it set up West Charlotte’s goalline stand of Mallard Creek allowing them to ultimately win the football game.
Antoine Johnson Antoine Johnson 6'2" | 260 lbs | DL West Charlotte | 2026 State NC – West Charlotte – The 2026 prospect stands at 6’3 and 255 pounds and was a big reason why Mallard Creek had trouble establishing the running game they are known for. He got off the ball very well at the snap, penetrated gaps, and forced double teams at the first level, freeing up star linebackers Jaden Smith Jaden Smith 6'3" | 200 lbs | LB West Charlotte | 2024 State NC and Julian Carmichael to run free and make plays for no gain or even tackles for losses in the backfield. He was credited with 10 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, and 1 quarterback hurry in the victory.
Brandon Rose Brandon Rose 6'0" | 185 lbs | DB Mallard Creek | 2025 NC – Mallard Creek – The 2025 prospect stands at 6’0 and 185 pounds, and plays safety for the Mavericks. I was impressed with his speed in helping cover deep shot passes West Charlotte was taking down the field, as well as the recognition he displayed in coming up and supporting in the run game and making open field tackles, as West Charlotte ran a lot of their run offense outside of the tackles, trying to get their athletes into space.