PRZOH Team Previews: Pickerington North

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>July is here, and that brings us to team preview season! Throughout the entire month of July and into early August, I will be releasing team previews to prepare everyone for the upcoming season and highlight key players to watch. Articles will be published daily, so be sure to check back to see if your favorite program is featured! In this article, we will highlight the Pickerington North Panthers.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Head Coach: Nate Hillerich (66-28)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Last Season (11-3)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The 2024 season for Pickerington North was up and down for several reasons. The Panthers were ready for a deep run in the playoffs. Starting week one against St. Edward, the 4-time reigning state champions, proved to be a tough matchup. Pickerington North would be shut out 28-0 and start the season 0-1. After that came an eight-game win streak. During that streak, the injury bug hit the program hard. They managed to pull through with the depth they had and set up a week 10 matchup vs Gahanna Lincoln to decide who would take home the OCC Ohio title. Pickerington North would be the favorites heading into the game, but Gahanna Lincoln took control of the game. Gahanna Lincoln would go on to win 17-6, denying Pickerington North the OCC Ohio title. Going into the playoffs, Pickerington North would enter as the seventh seed and would face Westerville North. Pickerington North's offense lit up the scoreboard and advanced to the second round after a 45-23 victory. There's nothing better than a rivalry matchup in the playoffs. Pickerington Central would be the second round contest, which the Panthers already defeated 38-27 in week three. The game was tight in the 4th quarter, tied at 14, but Pickerington North would find scores when needed, taking a 35-14 win and a season sweep on their biggest rival. Olentangy Berlin would take down Gahanna Lincoln the same night and would set themselves up as Pickerington North's next playoff opponent. Berlin would find themselves up 7-3 with the ball with very little time left in the first half. The ball would would be stripped to give Pickerington North the ball back and after a first play strike, Pickerington North would go up 10-7 into halftime and a pitch a second half shutout to win 10-7 to advance to the regional final. It was their first return to a regional final since 2017, which was also Coach Hillerich's first season with the program. They would match up with the to-be state champion Olentangy Liberty Patriots. Pickerington North fell 21-9. In a season with as many hardships as there were, Pickerington North had a great season. They lived up to expectation and provided an identity to rely on in the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2025 Season Outlook</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pickerington North will look to break through and advance past the regional finals for the first time in program history in the 2025 season. The Panthers bring back an incredible core from 2024, giving them a great chance to do so. With the departure of Preston Bowman, I expect the Panthers to run the ball a bit more and to spread around touches in the short passing game. The offense should be efficient and good enough to put up points when needed. The defense is where Pickerington North shines. They have D1 prospects all over the field and will look to be one of the most balanced teams in all of Ohio. The front seven was great last season, but some production was lost. It will be interesting to see who steps up and fills the voids, more specifically on the defensive line. The secondary will be special, as it's lined up with three or more D1 prospects. The defense plays with an opportunistic mindset, aiming to create takeaways. With the injuries that occurred last season and the depth lost during the season, if Pickerington North can remain somewhat healthy by the time the playoffs roll around, the Panthers will be one of the most balanced teams in D1.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Key Losses</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>WR Preston Bowman (Kentucky)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>DB Tyson Long (Ohio)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>RB Michael Taylor (Ohio)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>OL Ayden Annarino (Miami OH)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>DL Ben Thompson</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>OL Gabriel Ervin (Wheeling)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Watch</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["926009"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482ee6f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Mock will be one of the premier quarterbacks in our state this season. Jarin has gotten plenty of praise from the PRZOH crew for years for several reasons. Mock is a dual-threat who can make explosive plays often. He has great mechanics and throws with a lot of torque. He's accurate and can create off-platform. Commanding the Pickerington North offense should be ease for Jarin, and I'm excited to see what he can do in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["402309"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482ef1f"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Amar'e will be one of several defenders for Pickerington North to watch in 2025. Miller is physical and gets after it while tackling. He's aggressive in the air and can operate well both in man and zone coverage. He's versatile and can make plays from every spot in the secondary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1620681"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482f036"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Geo is one of the biggest rising prospects in all of Ohio. He can cover from multiple positions and is a good run-stopper. He's smart and can make disciplined plays as a 2028 prospect. With a stellar 2025 season, Geo could solidify himself as one of the top national defensive back prospects for the class of 2028.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["852080"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482eed3"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Andyriq will be one of several operators in the backfield. He's a great route runner and receiver. He's quick and twitchy as a runner. Andyriq is very explosive and is a home run hitter when on the field. I'm not sure what his carry percentage will look like for Pickerington North, but when he has the ball in his hands, watch out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["402345"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482ef68"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Malachi will serve as a deep safety for the secondary. He's a great ball hawk who has great reaction and pursuit to the ball. He uses instincts to make plays on the ball. When getting downhill, Taylor serves as a great tackler. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1179274"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482eff2"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ervin will be the best pass rusher for the Panthers' defense in 2025. Committed to Buffalo, Ervin can rush with a hand on the ground or standing up. He showcases great bend and the ability to consistently beat tackles with his burst and athleticism.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1065367"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482f07a"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Ryan is a complete package of a defender. He can play as a deep safety in coverage and the next play, line up in the box coming off the edge. He's physical and plays fast. He has great instincts in coverage and has the athleticism to run with receivers. Ryan does well coming down hill and getting tackles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["437939"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482efad"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Marquis will be a versatile piece for the Panther offense. Marquis is a transfer coming in from Westerville North. He has a gadget-type skillset. He is useful on sweeps and screens, but can be a dangerous weapon over the intermediate part of the field with his release and athleticism. I'm excited to see what Marquis can put on tape in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1163017"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482f102"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Elijah brings the power to Pickerington North's defensive line. He likes to rush with a hand in the dirt and can make plays with his power and athleticism. He has strong hands that can push to get downhill and can get off blocks quickly.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1065366"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-6870f2482f0bf"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Daunte is a lightning bolt of a linebacker. He blitzes well and can secure tackles once in the backfield. He can cover a lot of space with his athleticism and is someone who can blow up a play at any time.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">More Names to Know</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 RB/LB Raphson Tangkiang</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2026 WR Grant Williams</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 OL/DL Kingston Williams</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 OL/DL [player_tooltip player_id='949639' first='Jayveon' last='Massey']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2028 OL [player_tooltip player_id='963746' first='Avery' last='Price']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2026 OL Brady Boss</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 DL Michael Gordon</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2028 LB Demetrius&nbsp;Curtis</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>2027 DB [player_tooltip player_id='949473' first='Massuod' last='Seidu']</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">2025 Schedule</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>8/22</strong>&nbsp;– at St. Edward</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>8/29 </strong>&nbsp;– at St. Ignatius</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>9/5</strong>&nbsp;– Pickerington Central</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>9/12</strong>&nbsp;– at Dublin Coffman</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>9/19</strong>&nbsp;– Thomas Worthington</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>9/26</strong>&nbsp;– Westerville Central</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>10/3</strong>&nbsp;– at Central Crossing</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>10/10</strong>&nbsp;– Grove City</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>10/17</strong>&nbsp;– New Albany</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>10/24</strong>&nbsp;– at Gahanna Lincoln</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->