Class 2A Players to Watch: OL/DL
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In the gritty battlegrounds of Class 2A football, the spotlight now shines on the unsung heroes of the trenches – the offensive and defensive linemen. These positions are often overlooked but indispensable and embody the essence of grit and determination…
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Continue ReadingIn the gritty battlegrounds of Class 2A football, the spotlight now shines on the unsung heroes of the trenches – the offensive and defensive linemen. These positions are often overlooked but indispensable and embody the essence of grit and determination as they battle in the trenches week after week. As we gear up for another thrilling season, let’s take a closer look at six standout linemen who are poised to leave their mark on the field once again.
Ben Novak is an imposing offensive lineman with the size, strength, and technique to excel at the collegiate level. Ben possesses an imposing size and frame, ideal for a Division 1 offensive lineman, providing a significant advantage in blocking assignments. Novak’s power and strength make him a force to be reckoned with in both run blocking and pass protection, as he can overpower defenders and create opportunities for his team’s offense. Ben excels as a run blocker, using his size, strength, and technique to open holes and pave the way for the ground game. Novak’s talent has garnered attention from MAC schools, indicating recognition of his potential and ability to be a force at the next level.
Twitter: @BenjaminNovak07
Highlights
Colton Crawford
Colton Crawford
Colton Crawford is a versatile and technically sound offensive lineman with the skills and athleticism to succeed at the next level. Colton possesses excellent lateral quickness, enabling him to mirror defenders in pass protection and execute reach blocks effectively in the run game. Colton does a great job of staying underneath pads when blocking, maximizing leverage, and generating power to drive defenders off the line of scrimmage. Crawford demonstrates solid footwork in pass protection, allowing him to maintain balance and control against pass rushers while keeping the quarterback well-protected. Colton’s versatility as an offensive lineman will enable him to excel in various blocking schemes and adapt to different assignments.
Twitter: @coltonshane58
Xavier Vance
Xavier Vance
Xavier Vance is a dominant and physically imposing offensive lineman with the skills and mentality to excel at the collegiate level. Vance’s massive frame and strength make him a dominant force in the trenches, capable of overpowering defenders and controlling the line of scrimmage. Xavier’s physicality and aggressive playing style set the tone for the offensive line, as he consistently imposes his will on opposing defenders and establishes dominance in one-on-one matchups. Vance exhibits a relentless work ethic and never gives up on a block, consistently driving defenders downfield and finishing plays with intensity. Xavier is a reliable pass protector, using his size and technique to anchor against bull rushes and stonewall pass rushers.
Twitter: @Xavier_Vance06
Noah Stuczynski Noah Stuczynski 6’0″ | 255 lbs | OL Scecina Memorial | 2025 State IN is a reliable and technically sound center with the skills and mentality to excel in the trenches. Noah’s ability to consistently deliver accurate snaps is invaluable to the offense. Stuczynski demonstrates quick and effective hand transitions from the snap to the block, allowing him to engage defenders precisely and efficiently. Noah’s effective blocking technique and ability to get under the defenders’ pads make him a problematic force in the trenches, as he can generate movement at the line of scrimmage and create opportunities for the offense. Stuczynski’s high motor and relentless pursuit of excellence make him a valuable asset to the team.
Twitter: @NoahStuczynski
Gavin Myers Gavin Myers 5’11” | DL North Posey | 2025 State IN is a disruptive and aggressive defensive lineman with the skills and instincts to be a difference-maker on the field. Gavin’s ability to get extension from blocks and maintain leverage allows him to control offensive linemen and create opportunities to make plays in the backfield. Myers demonstrates proficient hand usage, utilizing various techniques to disengage from blockers and disrupt plays in the backfield. Myers’ aggressive approach to attacking blocks and pursuing the football makes him a relentless defender who never gives up on a play and consistently makes his presence felt on the field. Myers has the potential to be a dominant force on the defensive line and a nightmare for opposing offenses to contend with.
Twitter: @GavinMyers2006
Paul Oliver Paul Oliver 6’3″ | 200 lbs | ATH Linton-Stockton | 2026 State IN is a dynamic edge player with the speed, length, and disruptive ability to impact the game on every snap. Paul excels at capping the edge, effectively sealing off outside running lanes and forcing ball carriers back inside. Oliver’s quickness off the edge enables him to beat offensive tackles and apply pressure on quarterbacks. With his long frame, Paul has a natural advantage in reaching and disrupting passing lanes, making it difficult for quarterbacks to throw over him. Paul’s disruptive presence in the backfield forces quarterbacks to make quick decisions and disrupts the timing of opposing offenses. Oliver will be a difference-maker on defense and a game-changing pass rusher at the next level.
Twitter: @Paul_oliver13