Ladue vs Troy Buchanan – Top Defenders

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='604213' first='Mason' last='Marden'] LB 2026 Ladue<br>The junior linebacker (6'3" 210) was the Rams most active defender of the game racking up double digit tackles with his physical play and ability to run down ball carriers and receivers using his speed sideline to sideline and down field. Mason is a disciplined player who makes good reads and reacts well to plays. Also plays TE.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1325176' first='Evan' last='Via'] DB 2027 Ladue <br>The speedy Via (5'10" 165) was previously mentioned among the offensive standouts but does double duty at defensive back and is a playmaker for the Rams on that side of the ball as well. He does a good job tracking down plays using his athleticism and puts the same good ball skills to use with quick hands as a defender in pass coverage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1118461' first='Ty' last='Griggsby'] 2025 DB Troy Buchanan<br>One of the most underrated defensive backs in the area and state. Griggsby (6'2" 185) is a great combination of size, speed, power and explosiveness. He is physical and is tough to throw on his side of the field with his playmaking ability and ground he can cover. He has drawn college interest over the summer that should increase as the season progresses. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1238476' first='Jackson' last='Harrell'] 2025 DL Troy Buchanan <br>Harrell (6'3" 255) did a great job applying pressure during the game getting in the backfield and disrupting plays, putting big hits on back and the quarterback. He's quick and has a really good motor, plus is skilled enough to handle most offensive linemen. Can play either defensive tackle or defensive end and requires a regular double team. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Anthony Solari</strong> 2025 DB Troy Buchanan <br>Solari (5'11"175) was another talented defensive back making plays for the Trojans and hand a handful of tackles on the night. He brings a high energy every play against the run and in pass coverage. Has a good understanding of the game and helped hold Ladue scoreless until late in the first half.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='849703' first='Brendan' last='Huddleston'] 2026 DE Ladue <br>A top young defensive end prospect (6'3" 230) who battled all night and had his moments putting pressure on the offense. Brendan already has a couple of D1 offers and showed the motor and potential that has more colleges showing interest. He has good size and speed off the edge and is still working to improve his moves and technique. Look for him to get better as the season goes on. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->