Players You Need to Know From NJIC Colonial
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With only one loss on the season, Rutherford is returning a ton of fire power. They are talented enough to return to the section finals and maybe even take it a step further. With Becton and Glen Rock both going…
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Continue ReadingWith only one loss on the season, Rutherford is returning a ton of fire power. They are talented enough to return to the section finals and maybe even take it a step further. With Becton and Glen Rock both going 5-5 in 2023, both will look to get over the hump and be on the winning side of things. Lastly, the two 1-win teams in the division, Lodi and Garfield, are in a position to see a steady improvement next fall.
Jonathan Palsi
Jonathan Palsi
Predominantly a run threat from the QB position, Becton’s Jonathan Palsi found a ton of success on the ground in 2023 as he followed his blockers to daylight. Rushing for 573 yards and 9 touchdowns, Jonathan had a ton of success pulling it on the option and getting the outside defender to commit to the running back. Slippery with the ball in his hands, Jonathan displays power back skills as he shed tacklers play after play. While the focus is on Jonathan’s run skills, he is also equipped with a strong arm that can loft the ball over coverages. Throwing for 629 yards and 4 touchdowns last year, I expect to see those numbers jump in 2024.
Shane Bell
Shane Bell
A hybrid athlete that can line up anywhere on offense and find success there, Shane Bell is looking to elevate Lodi to the next level. A player that gives his team hope for a better future, Shane excels as a runner and as a receiver on his offense. Compiling nearly 700 offensive yards and 6 touchdowns, Shane is a determined and shifty runner with the ball in his hands, making it look easy when he makes guys miss. A confident receiver that can come down with the ball in traffic as well, Shane is sure to burn a few defenders in 2024.
Louis Morella
Louis Morella
A stout two way starter, Louis Morella held his own on both sides of the ball for Rutherford in 2023. As a tackle, he was a strong presence on the line equipped with a quick first step that would beat the man he lined up against. He is able to get his hands on the defender quickly and and drive them into the secondary. As a defensive end, Louis made a big impact as he racked up 55 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 2023. With powerful extension of his arms, Louis is able to drive blocker away, opening up a lane to get to the quarterback.
Another hybrid athlete on offense, Chris Gioia Chris Gioia 6’1″ | 180 lbs | WR Rutherford | 2025 NJ can thrive wherever Rutherford places him. When he’s lined up as the signal caller, Chris stands composed in the pocket and has the ability to deliver strikes downfield. Throwing for 661 yards and 9 touchdowns last season, Chris did a great job extending the play by being mobile enough to escape the rush and get out of the pocket. As a runner, Chris runs fluidly and can turn on the jets when he darts upfield. Rushing for 521 yards and 6 touchdowns, Chris is sneaky quick as he bursts into open space and catches the defenders off guard.
Highlights
Thomas Messina
Thomas Messina
Playing for a team that will look to improve in 2024, Thomas Messina is looking to help lead the charge for Garfield. A 2026 athlete, Thomas is a two way starter that has the potential to shine on offense next season once Garfield builds consistency in their play. He will be given plenty of opportunities due to his play making abilities. A big time downfield threat, Thomas can beat the defender and lay out for the ball to come down with it.