Plug N Play GOTW: Burke v Elkhorn South Standouts

Thursday Night featured one team that is trying to solidify itself as one of the top teams in the state, and the other, riding a quarterback/receiver duo in the top five for yardage at their positions. The Bulldogs wanted to sling the ball around but the windy night presented a challenge, while the Storm wanted to assert their physicality and limit the opponent's possessions. We are covering the players who showed off their skillset and left an impression on a night the Storm rolled.    <a href="https://x.com/GavinShanahan24">https://x.com/GavinShanahan24</a>   A thumping back, Shanahan finished with 148 yards and 3 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to attack holes with a low center of gravity and relentless leg drive. Shifty behind the line, he uses excellent footwork to pop outside the tackle and break off long runs. The Wayne State commit embodies a workhorse mentality, thriving on contact like a prizefighter throwing jabs before landing a haymaker. Shanahan's physical style and knack for big plays have fueled a special senior year that has everyone taking notice.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/GavinShanahan24/status/1843311919547240484 </div></figure>     <a href="https://x.com/gmcdonald2026">https://x.com/gmcdonald2026</a>   A big, physical linebacker, McDonald finished the night with 4 tackles, 2 hurries, 2 pass breakups, and a pick-six. He excels at coming downhill and spent a lot of time in the backfield, disrupting plays. McDonald's coverage skills stood out, as he dropped into zones well, reading the quarterback to secure an interception return. He communicates effectively on the field and demonstrates the versatility of a three-down linebacker, making him a valuable asset for any program.   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/gmcdonald2026/status/1842246696207601860 </div></figure>     Tate had 4 receptions for 75 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his versatility as a dangerous playmaker every time he touches the ball. He excels in the run game with jet sweeps and is a home run threat for the Storm, often targeted on big-play shots downfield. Though he missed a few catches that would've pushed him over 150 yards, his impact is undeniable. Tate also shines in the return game, helping the offense start with great field position. His ability to be used in multiple ways makes him a weapon that will have scouts salivating over his upside.      <a href="https://x.com/natec1223">https://x.com/natec1223</a>   On a tough night for the Bulldogs, facing a strong defense and battling high winds, Collins still stood out. A confident leader, he commands the offense and has his team's respect. His fantastic mobility allows him to extend plays, navigating the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield. Collins displayed a strong arm on the move and a relentless fight, continuing to pressure the defense with throws even when down big. With a "bring your lunch pail" mentality and a solid skillset, Collins is an undervalued talent that schools need to get their eyes on.      <a href="https://x.com/luhmarc2x">https://x.com/luhmarc2x</a>   Lightning-quick receiver Buchanan came into the game leading Class A in receiving yards, and it's easy to see why. He glides across the field with a smoothness that sets him apart. Despite the wind making deep passes difficult, Buchanan nearly changed the game's momentum early when he beat a defender for a would-be big play with Collins. Used on end-arounds and jet sweeps, Buchanan is a scoring threat every time he touches the ball. As one of the top receivers in the state, he's not getting enough attention yet, but programs are certainly starting to notice his talent.     Honorable Mentions:   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>Ciondre Dangerfield | Omaha Burke | 2027 | DB/RB | 5'6" 140lbs I was impressed with Ciondre's ability to be physical for his size. He finished with 4 tackles, 3 solo. He was not afraid to go into the box and lay a hit. Dangerfield also played with confidence from the DB spot. A player to keep an eye on in the coming years.</li> </ul>   <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li>[player_tooltip player_id='795607' first='Cooper' last='Perrien'] | Elkhorn South | 2026 | NG/T | 6'0" 230lbs Perrien finished with 5 tackles; however, his presence on the field does not show on the stat sheet. He spent a lot of the night in the offensive backfield. Perrien was disruptive and did not allow Collins to spend much time in the pocket to get comfortable. </li> </ul>

Thursday Night featured one team that is trying to solidify itself as one of the top teams in the state, and the other, riding a quarterback/receiver duo in the top five for yardage at their positions. The Bulldogs wanted to sling the ball around but the windy night presented a challenge, while the Storm wanted to assert their physicality and limit the opponent's possessions. We are covering the players who showed off their skillset and left an impression on a night the Storm rolled.