Small-School Stars: 5 Prospects from Illinois
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<p><strong>Giancarlo “Gio” Zepeda – WR – Class of 2027 </strong><br>Zepeda may be 5'7", 135 pounds, but he plays huge in the slot. He's quick, shifty in space, and dangerous on screens and punt returns. A true dynamic threat who regularly tilts games in his team's favor.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1570786' first='Maximus' last='Benson'] – OG – Class of 2026</strong><br>Benson is built like a college guard at nearly 6'2", over 300 pounds. He sets powerful blocks and consistently wins trenches battles. His aggressive play and natural technique stand out, even among bigger-school opponents.</p>
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<p><strong>Devon Murray – LB – Class of 2026 – West Carroll </strong><br>A smart, instinctive linebacker with good playing speed and toughness. Murray diagnoses quickly, fights through blocks, and delivers hits. His 2A competition hasn't masked the fact he plays at a much higher level.</p>
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<p><strong>Tyler Johnson – RB – Class of 2027 – Benton </strong><br>Johnson stands 6'0", 190 pounds and runs with power, patience, and vision. He's been a reliable producer for Benton's offense, piling up rushing yards behind physical downhill cuts. Johnson brings a college-ready frame with more room to grow, and he's not afraid of contact.</p>
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<p><strong>Marcus Davis – DB – Class of 2026 – Murphysboro </strong><br>Davis plays fast and physical in the secondary. At 5'11", 170 pounds, he's aggressive in coverage and brings a high motor. Whether he's lining up man-to-man or dropping into zone, he gets his hands on the ball and plays with confidence. A competitor who's tested against larger opponents and holds his own.</p>
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Giancarlo “Gio” Zepeda – WR – Class of 2027
Zepeda may be 5'7", 135 pounds, but he plays huge in the slot. He's quick, shifty in space, and dangerous on screens and punt returns. A true dynamic threat who regularly tilts games in his team's favor.
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