Scouting Reports: West Branch at Regina

IOWA CITY, Iowa - When rivals West Branch and Regina face off, it's guaranteed to be extra physical football. That certainly was the case on Friday night. One might say they played through the whistle awhile handing out the business on occasion.   The Regals eventually wore down the visiting Bears en route to a 28-10 victory in Class 1A District 5 action. First-place Regina improved to 3-0 in district play, while West Branch dropped to 1-2.   Here are scouting reports and photos from the game:    One of the state's top sophomores, Wallace's growth from his ninth-grade season to now is readily obvious. He's developed his football skills and his frame has filled out. It's made him a more physical performer on both sides of the ball. Wallace best projects as a linebacker right now. He's a fluid, powerful athlete that covers plenty of ground latterly. While he wasn't put in coverage much Friday, he possesses the traits to succeed when doing so. Don't rule Wallace out as an outside receiver or, more likely, a mismatch at tight end. His frame and progression so far brings to mind Iowa City West two-way standout [player_tooltip player_id='847948' first='Mason' last='Woods'].     Miller is one of the better breakout underclassmen. West Branch was determined to take him away during Friday's game, stacking the box and daring the Regals to throw. He found a little more running room after the intermission, including <a href="https://yourprepsports.com/2024/10/04/regina-pulls-away-from-west-branch-to-stay-unbeaten/">ripping off a 29-yard touchdown jaunt</a>. Even on the short runs, you can see the natural instincts when carrying the football. Miller cuts quickly and shows a good burst. That appears when he's catching passes as well. Miller displays an aptitude on defense, where he could development into a safety at the next level.     Tracy Brings a toughness to the quarterback position that keeps open possibilities at other spots should he pursue the next level. In this game, he caught a screen pass and raced 43 yards for a touchdown. He runs well in the open field, eluding would-be tacklers with good vision and by quickly changing direction. Slot receiver and defensive back are possibilities with probable contributions on special teams.     The Regal senior maximizes his talents by playing with intensity and all-out effort from the interior of both lines. Colony succeeds playing with good leverage and driving with powerful legs. That helps him move the opposition on either side of the trench. Programs on the next level can benefit from Colony's versatility and determination.     Montgomery is an intriguing prospect that could develop into an athletic contributor on the outside of either line. On offense, he sets up at right tackle. Montgomery utilizes his long arms and agility in the running and passing games. He might be even better as an edge prospect right now. He bursts off of the snap and puts offensive linemen on their heels. While he's already strong and physical, Montgomery's frame has room to fill out.     Like others in this rundown, Pedersen could fit on either side of the ball if he pursues college football. With good speed, size and jumping ability, he makes for a dangerous target at wideout. Pedersen also displays a good feel for cornerback. He changes directions well and his length is a big advantage.     The easiest and quickest way to describe Gates is labeling him as a good football player. He doesn't stand tall or overpower opponents. Gates respects the sport by playing it all out whenever he's on the field. He's fast and physical, which could work at slot or in the secondary at the next level. Of course, wrestling could be his path. He was a place-winner as sophomore.

IOWA CITY, Iowa - When rivals West Branch and Regina face off, it's guaranteed to be extra physical football. That certainly was the case on Friday night. One might say they played through the whistle awhile handing out the business on occasion.