Film Review C/O 2025 Sack Leaders: Class 4A
With offenses thriving under a strong offensive line, it’s just as important for a defensive line to have a game-changer who can make plays in the backfield. Looking at the film from the Iowa sack leaders, we need to find…
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Continue ReadingWith offenses thriving under a strong offensive line, it’s just as important for a defensive line to have a game-changer who can make plays in the backfield. Looking at the film from the Iowa sack leaders, we need to find the players with the strength, athleticism, and explosiveness to pair with their pass-rush moves and strong run defenders.
After diving into the films of several players inside the top Iowa sack leaders conversation, five stood out with phenomenal attributes and potential. Let’s look at what makes these players impressive.
Miles Robbins
Miles Robbins
Statistically, Robbins had a solid year on defense, putting up 6.5 sacks, 37 total tackles, and 6.5 tackles for a loss. He has the ideal size for an edge rusher and shows his versatility by rushing from the edge in a two or three-point stance while also kicking to a 4i-tech. Robbins has a red-hot motor that has great speed for his size. Once he gets off his block, he gets in pursuit and uses his speed to get in the backfield and make the tackle. Robbins is a reliable and powerful tackler in run defense, but he also has a variety of pass-rush moves that cause problems for offensive linemen. He’s strong enough to set the edge, using power moves and converting that to speed. Robbins is a blast to watch and will have all the eyes on him for his senior year.
Dein Gaye
Dein Gaye
Gaye put up solid numbers throughout his junior season, totaling 6.5 sacks and 44.5 total tackles, with 14.5 as a tackle for a loss. What stood out immediately was his impressive speed and burst out of his stance. Gaye rushes from a two-point stance and immediately puts the offensive lineman in conflict with his explosiveness and flexibility around the edge. He understands how to handle pulling blockers, shedding blocks and making plays in the backfield. Gaye knows when to dial it up and fire downhill and when he needs to set the edge and force plays back inside. He’s a smart, quick, and explosive edge rusher who is in for a massive senior year.
Parker Ernst
Parker Ernst
Ernst had a great season on defense, gaining 5.5 sacks, 7.0 tackles for a loss, and 39 total tackles. Playing as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, his versatility flashed in his ability to stop the run, rush the passer, and drop back in coverage. As a run defender, Ernst does a great job sealing the edge and then working back inside to make the play or allow his teammates to come up for a hit. When asked to pass rush, he displays explosiveness and speed, using his active hands to get off linemen and fire at the quarterback. Dropping back in pass protection, Ernst shows off his athleticism and agility, with the ability to run with receivers and get out of his break with an explosive burst downhill to come and make a hit. As a well-rounded player, Ernst’s senior season could be a big one for him.
Khalil Hussien
Khalil Hussien
Hussien put together a solid all-around season on defense, racking up 5.0 sacks, 7.0 tackles for a loss, and 21.5 total tackles. He rushes from both a two-point and three-point stance, showing good burst and explosiveness from either alignment. Hussien uses his hands well during initial contact, using his length and strength to beat offensive linemen. He displays his strength when he has to set the edge, keeping his eyes in the backfield and overpowering offensive tackles. Hussien is a good athlete who can track down ball carriers, and when he gets his hands on you, he’s bringing you to the ground. Watch out for him next season as he enters his senior year.
Joseph Monge
Joseph Monge
Monge was a menace on defense, finding his way to the backfield with 6.0 sacks, 9.0 tackles for a loss, and 23 total tackles. He’s a big-bodied defensive end who plays with a ton of strength and relentlessness. Monge does a great job when he’s engaged with blockers to keep his eyes in the backfield and shed offensive linemen to fill running lanes and get to the quarterback. He’s always in the play and consistently finds the proper gap to fire through. With his senior season on the horizon, Monge could be making his way up the rankings with another strong season.