Linebackers on the Rise in 20-6A
Here, we have linebackers in the district who will have the opportunity to showcase their skills once again. Last season, they displayed considerable promise, and with another year of experience under their belts and an offseason of dedicated work, these…
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Continue ReadingHere, we have linebackers in the district who will have the opportunity to showcase their skills once again. Last season, they displayed considerable promise, and with another year of experience under their belts and an offseason of dedicated work, these linebackers will be players to watch closely.
Josh Richardson | ILB | George Ranch | 2025
Richardson demonstrated exceptional gap-shooting abilities and displayed remarkable hustle and pursuit to the ball carrier. His timing on blitzes was impeccable, consistently disrupting plays in the backfield and creating havoc for opposing offenses. Richardson filled running lanes correctly and proved to be a reliable tackler in open space. His contributions will be invaluable as a key returning player for the Longhorn defense in the upcoming season.
Jack Ward | OLB | Ridge Point | 2025
Ward exhibited relentless pursuit off the edge, consistently applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks and disrupting ball carriers. His explosive first step allowed him to maneuver past offensive linemen, while his impressive bend enabled him to quickly change direction and make tackles in the backfield. Ward also displayed versatility, demonstrating comfort in space by effectively covering slot receivers when required and showcasing secure tackling in the open field. With his talent and skill set, Ward has the potential to become a game-changer off the edge, making him a player to closely monitor as he enters his senior season.
Benjamin Villareal | OLB | Fort Bend Elkins | 2025
Villareal emerged as a highly active and versatile player for the Knights’ defense, consistently showcasing his motor by relentlessly pursuing the ball carrier. With great speed and tenacity, he demonstrated the ability to cover ground from sideline to sideline, excelling in the open field. Villareal displayed commendable coverage skills and proved to be reliable in making crucial one-on-one stops in space. His contributions were invaluable to the defense, and his continued development will undoubtedly make him a key asset for the Knights in the upcoming season.
Luke W. Smith | ILB | Fort Bend Dulles | 2025
Smith showcased outstanding physicality and awareness from the Mike linebacker position. His ability to read run gaps allowed him to anticipate plays effectively, enabling him to make decisive moves, shoot the gap, and outmaneuver blockers to reach the ball carrier. Smith exhibited fearlessness in taking on opposing linemen and displayed excellent technique in shedding blocks to make plays on the ball. His speed to the ball carrier combined with powerful tackling left a significant impact on the opposition, solidifying his presence as a formidable force on the defensive side of the ball.
Christian Lee | ILB | George Ranch | 2025
Lee showcased a relentless determination as he explosively burst through gaps, consistently making impactful plays in the backfield. His exceptional speed and anticipation were key in generating negative plays for opposing offenses, establishing him as a disruptive force on the field. Lee wreaked havoc in the run game, often halting running backs before they could even reach the line of scrimmage, and his numerous tackles for loss served as a catalyst for the defense. With his commanding presence and disruptive playmaking ability, Lee’s contributions on the field were undeniable and impossible to ignore.