Cass Tech Scouting Report (vs. Toledo CC)

It's different at Cass Tech. If I had to describe the Cass Tech program in one word, it would be intense. From the players to the coaching staff, to the fans, this program has an unmatched intensity and passion for the game of football.   I'm going to admit right now that it's extremely difficult to focus solely on evaluation in a game like this. So many prospects that I didn't even get good looks at half the guys I wanted to see. I may need to hit up another Cass Tech game this season!    I don't know if I've ever seen a more competitive high school football player. Of course, Corey is an incredible talent. His athletic traits are well-known, and he's the worst-kept secret in Michigan High School football. My Mr. Football pick for good reason.   Corey was extremely locked into the game. He wanted to win like he wanted to breathe air.   Some highlights and lowlights for Corey. Actually gave up a few plays defensively. A little too aggressive at times, but that aggressiveness almost resulted in a near INT when he jumped a route. Plus, there was a moment where Corey forced his receiver out of bounds, eliminating him from the play.   I'm impressed with Corey's leadership. There were times when Corey's frustration showed, but he was able to reel in his emotions enough to be helpful to his teammates.     I watched Army throughout the first quarter.   In short, Army is a phenomenal press man corner. Not many high school corners are capable of consistent success in press man. Super impressed with Army's physicality and footwork when playing up close. He also did extremely well in the second half in a more zone-heavy gameplan.   Coverage skills are through the roof. Army still needs to grow as a run stopper. I thought he could have been much more aggressive in stopping the run, swarming to the football in general.     Number 10 earned a lot more reps than I was expecting. A rotational player and someone who didn't earn a ton of touches, but the fact that Peyton is earning any playing time as a freshman speaks volumes to his talent.   The main takeaway from yesterday was Peyton's effort. Every route was run with maximum effort. Even if he was mostly used as a decoy, the still had to key in on Peyton.   Still a little small, and still looking like he's getting used to the high school game. This game likely served as a phenomenal learning experience- can't wait to see how Peyton grows over the next few years.     I was happy to see Joshua starting at right guard. Watching him for a couple of drives, I loved the way Joshua blocked the run. Really good pad level, great anchor, and was able to move some big bodies. A couple of examples of good pulls and solid agility. Always looking for someone to hit, which is obviously something we look for in offensive linemen.   A very capable pass blocker as well. Quick feet, hands up, and held his ground. A couple of losses, but his opposing defender very rarely won on the first move. Impressed with what the sophomore was able to do against an excellent defensive line!     [player_tooltip player_id='977482' first='Julian' last='Taylor'] surpassed my expectations. You can only evaluate so much in the offseason. When I watched Julian at the Wayne State Mega Camp, I noted good athletic traits, but you never really know how that'll translate to once the season begins. In short, there's been a lot of athleticically gifted RBs who can't put it together in-season.   I'm glad I ranked Julian as the RB1. I was very impressed with Julian's vision and contact balance. Running inside, Julian did a wonderful job following close behind his blocks and exploding through the hole when the time came. Outside the tackles, he knew when to turn upfield and when to keep pushing outside. Plus, a great center of gravity and an ability to absorb some hits. Upgrade that athletesism throughout the next year, and [player_tooltip player_id='977482' first='Julian' last='Taylor'] can be a Power 4 prospect.     I caught a few glimpses of [player_tooltip player_id='1593028' first='Tailor' last='Thomas']. I was happy to see him getting into the game on occasion. He even earned a reception into the flat, and did well with his opportunity.   Tailor passes the eye test. Height and weight seem accurate. Moves really well for his size. A great fit for the Cass Tech program, and a guy who'll be used in some unique ways this season. Super interested in the role he fits into this year and in years to come. Impressed that Tailor earned playing time.     A huge bounce-back performance in the second half.   In the first half, Donald struggled against the speed of the Toledo CC defense. I thought he was a tad off schedule, sometimes being a touch late on his throws. All-around, Donald never got into a rhythm during the first half.   Something happened at halftime. Scheme adjustment, some adjustments, and Donald got into a great rhythm. He was suddenly hitting his short reads with consistency, alongside a couple of schemed-up deep shots. As the second half went on, Donald only got more accurate, aside from an interception. Toledo CC has one of the most talented secondaries in the midwest, and I'm extremely impressed with Donald's ability to retain composure and eventually get into a flow.   Additionally, Donald looked very comfortable in the pocket all game. His offensive line did a solid job protecting him. When pressure caved in, Donald displayed solid pocket presence, but that's definitely an area that can be improved upon. Lastly, Donald was a factor in the run game, there were very few if any designed QB runs. Donald did a nice job getting what he could, then sliding.

It's different at Cass Tech. If I had to describe the Cass Tech program in one word, it would be intense. From the players to the coaching staff, to the fans, this program has an unmatched intensity and passion for the game of football.