Underclassmen Up Next in 16:6A: Lockdown Defensive Backs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><em>The defensive backs highlighted below not only captured the spotlight in the past season but are anticipated to continue their standout performances in the upcoming one. These players are absolute ballers who consistently get the job done on the defensive side of the ball. Their ability to do what is needed for success sets them apart, and with the experience gained from the previous season, these stars are poised for an even bigger impact. Their leadership qualities will undoubtedly make them key figures, looked upon by teammates as the team gears up for the next season. Keep an eye on these defensive backs as they continue to make waves in the area.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Ashton Wilson | Cypress Falls | 2025</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Wilson, a safety with impressive range and excellent ball skills, demonstrated an ability to read quarterbacks' eyes and make calculated jumps on their intended routes. In the secondary, he proved to be a menace, actively roaming and hawking down players, often causing turnovers that shifted the momentum of games. Wilson's standout quality was his ability to recognize plays and seamlessly come off his coverage when needed. His instinctual play and tremendous feel for the game set him apart, making him a reliable and impactful presence in the secondary. Wilson's skills and football intelligence position him as a player to watch as he continues to make significant contributions on the field.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16258083/65217b78d45eb60778a28658' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65667214b0bd9"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Cole Fattig | Bridgeland | 2025</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Fattig emerged as an active and impactful player off the edge for the Bears' defense. His versatility was evident as he excelled not only in pass coverage but also as a formidable force in the run game, proficient at disrupting running backs before they could gain momentum. Fattig demonstrated effectiveness in open space, consistently making key stops in one-on-one situations. His aggressive approach to attacking the ball and his standout play style set him apart on the field. Fattig's well-rounded skills make him a valuable asset on the defensive side, contributing significantly to the success of the Bears' defensive efforts.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16528268/651b70f8234792161c5237d1' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65667214b0c18"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Matthew Ciers | Cypress Ranch | 2025</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Ciers showcased his versatility by playing both as a box safety and patrolling the backend of the secondary. His physical style of play was not only effective in the run game but also proved beneficial in defending against the pass. Ciers excelled at limiting space in coverage and demonstrated a skill for separating players from the ball. His ability to read plays and maintain awareness positioned him as a significant threat in the secondary, creating challenges for opposing quarterbacks. Ciers' energetic and fly-around style of play made him a standout defensive back, contributing to the success of the overall defense.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16313971/6551a7bcbd6a500720cabff5' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65667214b0c3f"} /--> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline">Phillip Hagger III | Cypress Springs | 2025</span></strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Hagger emerged as a playmaker on the defensive side in the past season, showcasing a combination of speed and physicality. Fearless in the face of challenges, he played with intensity and aggression. Hagger's skill in man coverage was evident, as he allowed little separation and demonstrated the ability to keep up with any opponent. Additionally, he proved to be effective against the run, displaying the capability to run downhill and make crucial stops for minimal gains. Hagger's fire and determination, qualities that cannot be taught, position him as a key piece for the defense, suggesting that he will continue to be a significant contributor in the upcoming season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/hudl {"name":"acf/hudl","data":{"embed_code":"u003ciframe src='https://www.hudl.com/embed/video/3/16925249/650a037f5ca91e0908aaebba' width='640' height='360' frameborder='0' allowfullscreenu003eu003c/iframeu003e","_embed_code":"field_62daf7995fd8c"},"mode":"edit","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-65667214b0c65"} /-->