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<p>Ironically, the top six returning scorers are all running backs! These prospects are unique in their own way and know how to find the end zone anywhere on the football field. Let's take closer look on whose skill set gives them the edge on being the leader next year.</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">J. Mack is an electrifying athlete who can hurt defenses in multiple ways. He can squeeze between the tackles with incredible balance for big gains. Mack also has a knack for getting slippery on the outside—whether on a toss, screen, or any play designed to let him create in space. His speed and quickness are ideal for his size, making him a constant threat to take it the distance. The Liberty star is a tough runner who sets himself apart as an elite kick returner. Jay has received numerous college invitations and will be sitting on a solid number of offers before it's all said and done.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 188 Total Points</p>
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<p>(29) Touchdowns, (7) 2 pt conversions</p>
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<p>1433 rushing (7.2 avg), 394 receiving (11.3 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 8 vs Fort Zumwalt South (56-28) 246 yards, 6 tds, 2 pt conv. </p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">No, he's NOT a power back. [player_tooltip player_id='1125456' first='Carter' last='Dowell'] is a tall, pro-style back who thrives when getting downhill and is most dangerous when his shoulders are square to the line of scrimmage. He runs physically and accelerates out of traffic with exceptional contact balance. His vision, paired with his agility, keeps the YAC piling up. I love his long stride and the way he finishes runs. Carter can protect the quarterback and has reliable hands as well. This kid's frame and potential are scary high. Carter is probably the most physically prepared for the next level but is looking to capitalize on his senior year to cement himself in the conversation as the best back in the area.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 180 Total Points</p>
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<p>(29) Touchdowns, (3) 2 pt conversions</p>
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<p>1762 rushing (11.4 avg), 155 receiving (17.2 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 5 vs Francis Howell Central (70-25) 306 yards, 6 tds</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='1625709' first='Derez' last='Sayles'] puts up big numbers by exposing defensive schemes that can't contain him. He is patient, shifty, and finds daylight with explosive footwork. Derez is smooth and composed, allowing blockers to create running lanes that showcase his athleticism. As a running back, he creates mismatches in the passing game, whether coming out of the backfield or lining up as an inside receiver. Second-level defenders have their work cut out for them when he releases into space. Keep an eye on Derez—he has a lot of potential.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 138 Total Points</p>
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<p>(23) Touchdowns</p>
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<p>1385 rushing (8.7 avg), 53 receiving (5.9 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 9 vs Chester (36-28) 245 yards, 4 tds</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">Barrett is an every-down back who carries the load like an eighteen-wheeler. He gets downhill with urgency and sidesteps through traffic like a smaller back. But make no mistake—he is an A- and B-gap bruiser who runs behind his pads while consistently stealing chunks of yardage. His speed burst is often miscalculated due to his size, but once he gets going, he's hard to stop. His core strength and ability to pull through contact will serve him well at the next level.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 134 Total Points</p>
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<p>(22) Touchdowns, (1) 2 pt conversions</p>
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<p>1321 rushing (6.3 avg), 10 receiving (5 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 6 vs Jefferson (42-36) 261 yards, 4 tds</p>
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<p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='849700' first='Jayden' last='McCaster'] has incredible instincts with the football in his hands. He is an elusive back who never quits on plays. McCaster embodies all the attributes needed for an effective run game. His quickness and strong lower half extend plays because his feet rarely stop on contact. He sees the field well and can make defenders miss in and out of the hole at full speed. Blocking is not an issue, and he is a legitimate receiving option. Jay has a no-nonsense approach to his game, and he only gets better with more carries. Delivering your best performance in a state game speaks volumes. McCaster already holds multiple Division I offers, with many more likely on the way.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 132 Total Points</p>
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<p>(22) Touchdowns</p>
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<p>1521 rushing (7.7 avg), 487 receiving (13.7 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 14- State Championship vs Nixa (35-20) 238 yards, 2 tds</p>
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<p>T. Little is a stout ball carrier who runs with power and fights for every inch. He hits holes with purpose, slashing through defenses like butter. Terrance takes pride in being difficult to bring down, consistently breaking tackles and showcasing open-field speed to finish in the end zone. His ability to always fall forward, combined with strong leg drive, keeps the chains moving in his favor. Quickness, balance, and power are all strengths of Little's game. There's no denying that this prospect can play college football, but next season will have a big impact on where he continues his career.</p>
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<p>2024 Season: 130 Total Points</p>
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<p>(21) Touchdowns, (2) 2 pt conversions</p>
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<p>1140 rushing (8.1 avg)</p>
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<p>Best Performance: Wk 2 vs Parkway Central (48-0) 131 yards, 5 tds</p>
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Ironically, the top six returning scorers are all running backs! These prospects are unique in their own way and know how to find the end zone anywhere on the football field. Let's take closer look on whose skill set gives them the edge on being the leader next year.
HEIGHT
5'9"
WEIGHT
180
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
Wentzville Liberty
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HEIGHT
6'0"
WEIGHT
195
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
Troy Buchanan
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HEIGHT
5'9"
WEIGHT
175
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
Waterloo
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HEIGHT
6'0"
WEIGHT
200
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
Perryville
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HEIGHT
5'7"
WEIGHT
170
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
De Smet
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HEIGHT
5'8"
WEIGHT
175
POS
RB
CLASS
2026
State:
Missouri
School:
Hazelwood East
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