Rising Defensive Standouts Across Northwest Ohio
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<p>Championship-level teams are often built in the trenches and on the defensive side of the ball, and Northwest Ohio has no shortage of physical playmakers who thrive when the game gets tough. These four defenders — with some offensive versatility sprinkled in — are set to anchor their teams this fall:</p>
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<p><strong>Roman Morrison – LB – Anthony Wayne – Class of 2026</strong><br>Morrison has been a steady force for the Generals' defense. With 69 tackles and three sacks last fall, he earned All-NLL honors and is also expected to contribute at running back. His instincts and physicality make him a difference-maker on both sides of the ball.</p>
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<p><strong>Brannon Dempsey – DL – Whitmer – Class of 2026</strong><br>At 5'10”, 270 pounds, Dempsey doesn't just eat up space—he creates chaos. Leading Whitmer in tackles with 105, he's the type of defensive lineman who can wreck a game plan. His leverage, motor, and strength in the trenches make him one of the premier interior defenders in the region.</p>
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<p><strong>Marquez Williams – DL – Fremont Ross – Class of 2026</strong><br>Williams has next-level explosiveness off the edge. Just a junior, he already owns All-Ohio honors after racking up six sacks last season. With a relentless motor and leadership qualities, he has the potential to be one of the state's best defensive linemen in the 2026 class.</p>
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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1526785' first='Eli' last='Beal'] – RB/DB – Toledo St. Francis – Class of 2026</strong><br>Though best known for his offensive production (2,043 yards, 29 TDs), Beal doubles as a reliable defensive back. His speed and vision allow him to make plays in coverage, and his physical running style translates to toughness on defense. The Bowling Green target will be one of the most-watched seniors in the area this fall.</p>
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Championship-level teams are often built in the trenches and on the defensive side of the ball, and Northwest Ohio has no shortage of physical playmakers who thrive when the game gets tough. These four defenders — with some offensive versatility sprinkled in — are set to anchor their teams this fall:
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