Film Review C/O 2025 Interception Leaders: Class 4A
Developing a defender who can lockdown the secondary and has the potential to create turnovers is as important as any position on defense. Removing the threat of a deep ball and taking away the big play is important for the…
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Continue ReadingDeveloping a defender who can lockdown the secondary and has the potential to create turnovers is as important as any position on defense. Removing the threat of a deep ball and taking away the big play is important for the success of a defense. While forcing turnovers is great for the stats, there’s more to what creates an elite cornerback. Let’s look at what makes these interception leaders tremendous defenders.
Jahkhi Parker
Jahkhi Parker
Parker does a lot for his team on both sides of the ball, proving to be a reliable ball carrier and defensive back. He has a tremendous amount of athleticism, blended with a great size/speed combination, which makes him a threat on both sides of the ball. Parker had one interception last season, which he returned for 46 yards, setting his offense up with good field position. His understanding of reading the receiver when he’s in phase to get his head back to the ball, finding it, and making a play shows his instincts and football IQ. He’s explosive when firing downhill to make a hit on the ball carrier, proving to be a reliable and hard-hitting tackler. When Parker is on offense, he runs with violence and speed while displaying his ability to make something happen when the play breaks down in the backfield. He has film of doing just about everything—throwing the ball, running, pass-catching, tackling, and pass coverage—there’s not much he can’t do for a team.
Brody Jordan
Brody Jordan
Jordan finished the season ranked second in the 4A class of juniors with five interceptions and had 53.5 total tackles, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries. Standing at 6-foot, 183 pounds, he’s a big-bodied, versatile defensive back who can play several roles on defense. Jordan has great speed for his size, showing explosiveness and burst when firing downhill. When he gets the ball in his hands, he’s tough to bring down and can outrun defenders for the big play. Jordan is a heavy hitter, lowering his shoulder and delivering a powerful hit. He has a good lower center of gravity with a strong lower half and solid footwork, easily getting in and out of his backpedal. Jordan’s size, speed, and athleticism will position him for a strong senior year next season.
Adler Deike
Adler Deike
Deike ended his junior year tied for third in the class for interceptions with three, one of which he took to the house. He also showed off his instincts, flying into the backfield and taking a pitch from the goal line for a defensive touchdown. Deike proved time and time again that he has a high football IQ, allowing him to be in an advantageous position to make a play on the ball and get it back for his offense. Deike plays a box-safety, coverage linebacker type of role and excels in many areas of the game. He’s a powerful hitter with good ball skills and tremendous speed and burst to get himself in a position to make a play on the ball. With Deike surveying the field, there’s potential for a big-time play to be made on defense. Watch out for him next season in his senior year.
Honorable Mention:
Tate Perrin, DB, Dallas Center-Grimes
Parker Lewis, DB, Oskaloosa