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<p><em>The trenches are where every game begins, often setting the tone for the entire matchup. Below are defensive linemen who have consistently showcased exceptional skill and relentless effort on the field. These athletes excel at controlling the line of scrimmage, whether by using their quickness to penetrate gaps and disrupt plays or by overpowering blockers to shut down running lanes. These players are integral to their teams' defensive success and are poised to be game-changers at their position. Keep an eye on these standout names as they continue to make an impact.</em></p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1749485' first='Isaac' last='Coughran'] | DE | Katy</strong></p>
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<p>Coughran plays with an incredible motor and strength. He takes on base blocks with ease, holding at the point of attack, and disengaging to make stops on the ball. He can use pure power to go through blockers and shows the ability to change direction in short areas. Coughran uses his hands well, shooting them in the correct locations to control linemen and free himself at the line of scrimmage. He plays until the whistle is blown and displays great discipline, reading keys and reacting accordingly. He plays a disruptive game, especially in the run game and is a driving force on the front line for the Tiger defense.</p>
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<p><strong>Leo Flett | DE | Tompkins</strong></p>
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<p>Flett is a strong run defender from the end position. He shows intial quickness, shooting gaps and defeating reach blocks to stop outside runs. Flett keeps blockers away from his body by using his arm length and disengages with urgency. He tackles very well in tight spaces, and will makes stops while engaged with linemen. Flett plays with good physicality and recognition which has made him a player worth the watch.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1641536' first='Hayden' last='Gandolfo'] | DE | Seven Lakes</strong></p>
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<p>Gandolfo is a standout at the position. His ability to create negative plays for opponents is eye catching. He gets into the backfield with ease and creates havoc. Gandolfo wins one-on-one battles consistently using speed and power, and simply overmatching the opponent. He strikes directly into the chest and forces linemen into the backfield. Gandolfo shows excellent get off and plays at a great pad level. He has a quick twitch that will catch opponents off guard and he takes advantage of it. Gandolfo is truly a playmaker and a guy who can change the game with his play.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1904001' first='Christopher' last='Carroll'] | DT | Hightower</strong></p>
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<p>Carroll shows good quickness and power in small areas, creating pressure and limiting gains at the line of scrimmage. He has the strength to hold at the point of attack and shows good fight in his game. Carroll gets his hands up quickly, striking in the right areas, and can control linemen. He possess the initial quickness needed to get by opposing linemen and to chase down plays down the line. Carroll is a player to get on the radar and a guy to keep track of.</p>
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<p><strong>Kenny Ezeji | DT | Ridge Point </strong></p>
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<p>Ezeji shows great burst and explosion in the short area and excellent athleticism in the interior of the line. He has a great get-off paired with quick hands that are used to shed blocks in a hurry. Ezeji is very active, showing fast feet and balance to maintain and close running lanes at the point of attack. He stays at a good pad level and attacks his opponent with great urgency. His ability to swiftly locate the ball after disengaging from blocks is key to his game. He is a player who is only getting started and will be a name to watch moving forward.</p>
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The trenches are where every game begins, often setting the tone for the entire matchup. Below are defensive linemen who have consistently showcased exceptional skill and relentless effort on the field. These athletes excel at controlling the line of scrimmage, whether by using their quickness to penetrate gaps and disrupt plays or by overpowering blockers to shut down running lanes. These players are integral to their teams' defensive success and are poised to be game-changers at their position. Keep an eye on these standout names as they continue to make an impact.
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