Five Players Hitting Their Stride for the Playoffs

Without question, [player_tooltip player_id='1545707' first='Xavier' last='Jackson'] from Bergen Catholic is turning heads right now. As the playoffs loom, Jackson has proven to be New Jersey's top cornerback, showcasing elite defensive back skills.    Against back-to-back tough opponents, he's displayed everything you'd want from a premier DB: tight man coverage, sharp zone reads, and pure instinct. But it's not just his coverage—Jackson's become a fundamental tackler on the edge, stopping screens and supporting the run game with physicality.    As playoffs begin, he's reaching his peak, and no defensive back in the state is playing at a higher level.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/XavierJackson__/status/1850285107078189148 </div></figure>     [player_tooltip player_id='910875' first='Jalen' last='Parker'] from Winslow is putting on a show. Arguably the most consistent quarterback in New Jersey, Parker has taken his game to new heights over the past month. In October alone, he's completed 62 of 91 passes for 1,067 yards, piling up 15 touchdowns against only two interceptions. Parker's calm under pressure and knack for pushing the ball downfield without risky decisions sets him apart. His ability to extend plays, shift seamlessly from playmaker to game manager, and maximize Winslow's arsenal of offensive talent has defined his season. Heading into the playoffs, Parker looks ready to elevate his game even further.        Brody Dieter from Rancocas Valley is making a statement this season. October has seen him take his game to the next level, establishing himself as a true number-one receiver. Dieter's skill set is complete—he's not just a downfield threat who can separate; he's also a playmaker after the catch, able to high-point the ball in tight coverage.   His three-touchdown performance against Lenape was pivotal in securing a win for Rancocas Valley. Dieter's breakout drew Syracuse's interest, earning him a preferred walk-on offer. As the playoffs approach, more Division 1 programs will be watching closely.        [player_tooltip player_id='343146' first='Phillip' last='Folmar'] from Delbarton has been electric. Folmar took it up a notch after a standout game against Bergen Catholic, where he broke free against one of the state's toughest secondaries.    He posted a jaw-dropping nine receptions for 171 yards and five total touchdowns in a thrilling win over St. Peter's Prep, sealing the game with the winning score.    Known for his versatility, Folmar is a dual threat—not only a deep-ball receiver who wins tough catches but also a Wildcat quarterback who grinds out clutch plays. Heading into the playoffs, Folmar's hitting his peak at precisely the right time.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/VarsityAces/status/1849962776401227878 </div></figure>     Quayd Hendryx from Burlington Township has been quietly dominant in South Jersey this season, steadily climbing the ranks among the region's top wide receivers.    Standing 5'11” and boasting a track background, Quayd pairs speed with solid and natural hands, consistently winning battles at the catch point. He's a force on deep routes and can stretch the field, making him a threat outside the numbers.    His breakout performances have put South Jersey on notice, and as a member of the 2026 class, he's only getting started. Quayd's primed to carry his impressive season into the playoffs and make a lasting impact.