Moore County Preview: Rise Up

<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Moore County Football Media Day: Spotlight on Local Athletes</h3>   Moore County football is gearing up for another exciting season, and the area's top athletes took center stage during Media Day. Players from across the county came together to represent their schools, share their expectations, and showcase the talent that makes this region one of the strongest football communities in the state.   This year's Media Day highlighted both established leaders and rising stars. Veteran seniors spoke about unfinished business, leadership, and leaving their mark, while underclassmen expressed excitement about stepping into bigger roles.    [player_tooltip player_id='1644371' first='Hayne' last='Tobias'] | TE | 6'3” 215 lbs Tobias is a phenomenal athlete who can run, jump, and move like a true all-around playmaker. Quite possibly the most athletic prospect in the county, the Chattanooga commit had a standout offseason. He shined at every camp and 7-on-7 event he attended, consistently proving why he's one of the area's top talents.     lijah Clayton | LB | 5'11” 200 lbs Clayton is a tough, physical linebacker with a nose for the football. At 5'11”, 200 pounds, he brings a strong combination of speed and strength, allowing him to shed blocks and make plays in space. He's a reliable tackler who thrives in pursuit and has the athleticism to cover ground sideline-to-sideline.     [player_tooltip player_id='1697345' first='Taylon' last='Tranel'] | LS | 5'10” 215 lbs Tranel is the premier long snapper in North Carolina, ranked as the state's No. 1 at his position. The NC State commit combines consistency, accuracy, and velocity on his snaps with the size and strength to hold his own in protection. At 5'10”, 215 pounds, he brings a strong, compact frame that translates well at the next level. Tranel's work ethic and reliability make him a valuable asset on special teams and a player ready to contribute early in college.     Tyler Upchurch | OL | 5'11” 235 lbs | North Moore Upchurch is a gritty offensive lineman who brings toughness and consistency to the trenches. At 5'11”, 235 pounds, he uses leverage, footwork, and effort to win matchups in the run game and in pass protection. He plays with a high motor, showing the kind of physicality and determination that sets the tone for his offense. Upchurch is the type of lineman every team needs—reliable, hard-working, and     [player_tooltip player_id='1844380' first='Joseph' last='Dunn'] | FB | 6'1” | 215 lbs Dunn is a bruising fullback with a physical downhill style that wears down defenses. At 6'1”, 215 pounds, he brings power between the tackles and isn't afraid of contact. With his combination of size, strength, and determination, Dunn has set his sights on an ambitious goal of rushing for 1,000 yards, and he has the tools to make it happen.     Brady Atkinson | QB | 6'0” | 175 lbs Atkinson is the unquestioned leader of the North Moore offense. Traditionally a run-first program, the Mustangs are shifting toward a more balanced attack this season, and Atkinson will be the key to making that transition work. Operating out of an RPO system — “Run People Over” — he has the poise, decision-making, and toughness to keep defenses guessing while setting the tone for his team.     Cannon Capps | Punter/LB/RB | ATH Capps is the definition of an all-around athlete. Competing in 8-man football, where small rosters demand versatility, he steps up wherever his team needs him — punting, making plays at linebacker, and carrying the ball at running back. His toughness, adaptability, and high football IQ make him a difference-maker on both sides of the ball. Capps is the type of player who does the dirty work, sets the tone physically, and finds ways to impact the game in every phase.     Elijah Collins | RB/LB | ATH | Senior Collins is a tough, two-way athlete who sets the tone as a senior leader for Father Capodanno. He brings physicality at linebacker and reliability as a ball carrier, showing the versatility to impact the game on both sides of the ball. Collins leads by example, playing with effort, toughness, and discipline — the kind of player younger teammates can rally around. His presence gives Father Capodanno a steady force in the locker room and on the field.     Gunnar Johansson | RB/LB | Junior Johansson is a physical two-way standout with the frame and athleticism to project at the next level. As a running back, he runs with power and balance, wearing down defenders with his size. On defense, he brings that same physicality at linebacker, filling gaps and delivering clean, hard tackles. Still just a junior, Johansson already has the build college coaches look for, and with continued development, he has the tools to be a true next-level prospect.