St. Joseph Collegiate Institute: Top Underclassmen
The 2023 SJCI Varsity season ended in disappointment, but the future of football program looks bright. These are the players that commanded the locker room of the JV team. I think their talents will carry over into their Varsity careers.…
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Continue ReadingThe 2023 SJCI Varsity season ended in disappointment, but the future of football program looks bright. These are the players that commanded the locker room of the JV team. I think their talents will carry over into their Varsity careers.
Dom was the overall catalyst for St. Joe’s 2023 JV successes. With 800 All purpose yards and 7 TDs in the first 7 games, Cook Jr. was elevated to the Varsity team for their playoff run as a Freshman. He possesses speed and quickness that is not often seen from a player his age. Dom has extraordinary vision and balance that is essential for a Running Back and was a major contributor as a Kick and Punt Returner. As a Strong Safety, Dom made noise posting 40 tackles (4 for loss), 1 Forced Fumble and an INT. Domonic Cook Jr has remarkable knowledge of the game and keen football instincts. Named team captain in his first year with the Marauders, he has shown great poise and leadership that will be invaluable to the school as a whole.
Cole Reilly
Cole Reilly
As a two-way starter, it was hard pressed to get Cole Reilly off the field in his Sophomore season. Cole was a powerful presence that anchored an offensive line that averaged 6.0 yards per carry and 13 TDs in 2023. Reilly has a motor that doesn’t stop, with strength to match. His ability to reach the second level as an Offensive Guard is unparalleled. On top of his contributions to the Offensive Line, Cole Reilly made his presence known as a Defensive Tackle and Special Teamer adding 14 Tackles (5 for a loss) and a key blocked punt that turned out to be a difference maker in a tight matchup early in the season.
Davion Becker
Davion Becker
Standing 5’10 and just 192 lbs, many may consider Davion Becker “small” by Linebacker standards. But there are no measurables for one’s heart and determination and that’s what Davion brings to the table every play. Becker played nearly every snap on defense as the Strongside Inside Linebacker, leading the team in all categories – 49 tackles (11 for loss), 1 Sack, 2 Forced Fumbles, 4 Fumble Recoveries, 1 INT and 2 defensive TDs. He also added 17 carries for 177 yards and 4 TDs as a complimentary RB to Cook Jr. After his dominate performance at the JV level, Becker joined Varsity for the final 3 games of the season, recording a sack on his first drive as a Varsity player. Davion has great vision and a nose for the football. His speed coupled with strength will make him a force for the next two years.
Brayden Downey
Brayden Downey
Another two-way starter for the Marauder’s JV team, Downey was St. Joe’s starting Offensive and Defensive Tackle. Gifted with great hand technique, Brayden is a superb pass protector. He has an impressive drive off the ball in the run game as well. On the defensive side, Downey imposed his will on other Offensive Linemen, racking up 36 tackles (7 for loss) in 6 games. His football intuition mixed with his desire to win will make Brayden Downey a player to watch in his Junior and Senior seasons.
Troy Mobley
Troy Mobley
A transfer in 2023, Troy Mobley made his presence known in his first season at St. Joe’s. Troy, with his explosive speed, was a nightmare for defensive backs. While he did lead the Marauders in all receiving categories, it was his uncanny nose for the end zone that separated him from his peers (8 TDs & 9 – 2 Pt Conversions on the season). After a slow start, Troy accumulated 11 Receptions for 245 yards (22.3 yards per catch) and 6 TDs in the final 3 games alone. Troy’s determination to be the best will give him the opportunity to pick up next season right where he left off.