Division Returners: Ivy White
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Newark East Side dominated the division in 2023 as they went 6-0 in the division and 7-2 overall. Newark East Side is returning the most talent in the division, so don’t be surprised they continue their success. However, creeping up…
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Continue ReadingNewark East Side dominated the division in 2023 as they went 6-0 in the division and 7-2 overall. Newark East Side is returning the most talent in the division, so don’t be surprised they continue their success. However, creeping up behind them is Dwight-Morrow. Finishing the season with an 8-1 record, Dwight-Morrow’s only loss on the season was to East Side. Look for them to redeem themselves in 2024., and also be on the watch for others to emerge within the division.
The do it all player for Dwight-Morrow’s offense, quarterback Damani Williams Damani Williams 6’0″ | 155 lbs | QB Dwight Morrow | 2025 NJ earned 1st team all division as he lead a lethal offensive attack. Deadly through the air and on the ground, defenses have an extremely challenging time trying to contain Damani for a full 48 minutes. A true dual threat, Damani threw the ball to the end zone 7 times last season as well as ran in another 8. And with 938 yards through the air and another 740 on the ground, don’t be surprised if Damani surpasses the 1000 yard mark for both in 2024.
Jakem Brown
Jakem Brown
A receiver that has the potential to become a top target in the state, Jakem Brown has all the measurements and skills required to dominate in 2024. The Newark East Side receiver hauled in 320 yards and 6 touchdowns last season, and I would not be the least bit surprised if Jakem put up 10 touchdowns and got close to 1000 yards in 2024. With the height to out jump any defender, Jakem can terrorize defenses in the red zone. What stands out the most is Jakem is not only quick with his agility, but also can truck defenders if he so chooses. Newark East Side will be the most dominate aerial attack in the Ivy White division next year.
A quarterback with great statute, Jason Marasciulo Jason Marasciulo 5’10” | QB Cliffside Park | 2025 NJ of Cliffside Park has the potential to elevate his team to the next level. A passer first and a runner second, Jason can maneuver around the pocket and let his guys get open before he decides to tuck it and run. When he does take off with it, he can lower his shoulder and deliver a punishing blow to the tackler or deliver a nasty stiff arm. A top notch talent, Jason will pop off his senior year for Cliffside Park.
One of the best two way starters in the division, Malachi West-Williams Malachi West-Williams 5’7″ | 140 lbs | ATH Newark Eastside | 2025 State NJ is an athlete in the truest sense. Defensively, the Newark East Side product lined up at the nickel corner/rover position. With 47 tackles, 3 sacks, and an interception returned for a touchdown, Malachi is able to bait QBs to throw his direction, only to make a big play on the ball.
A speedster from the slot position, Malachi caught 228 yards and 2 touchdowns last fall. As a receiver, Malachi can break in and out of cuts with precision, forcing defenders to always trail him. A player that can make acrobatic catches look easy, Newark East Side is my early favorite to win the division.
The final player on the list but arguably the most talented in the division, Xavier Smith Xavier Smith 5’8″ | 155 lbs | QB Newark East Side | 2026 NJ blew up onto the scene in his sophomore campaign. The Newark East Side quarterback threw for 1275 yards and 19 touchdowns, but just as impressively, ran for 347 yards and 6 touchdowns too. Xavier really displayed flashes of excellence last season as his mobility and fluidity made it very challenging for defenses to contain him. With a cannon of an arm as well, Xavier has the ability to outthrow the coverage and find his man deep downfield. Xavier will rise on the NJ rankings very quickly, with the possibility of becoming g a top 5 QB in the state very soon.