Carolina Recruits Week10 Xfactors Preview Defense

Week 10 features several marquee matchups across the area, and while the offensive fireworks always grab attention, it's the defensive X-factors who could ultimately determine the outcomes. These are the players who set the tone with their toughness, leadership, and ability to make game-changing plays. Whether it's shutting down explosive offenses, controlling the line of scrimmage, or creating turnovers, these defenders will be key to their teams' success under the Friday night lights.    Senior edge rusher Dezhian Roberts of St. Pauls has been one of the most dominant defensive players in the region this season. Leading the area with 10 sacks, Roberts has been nearly unblockable off the edge — using his combination of size, power, and relentless motor to collapse pockets and disrupt any offensive rhythm. His presence alone forces opposing quarterbacks to make quicker decisions and coordinators to adjust protections. As St. Pauls continues its playoff push, Roberts' ability to create pressure and set the tone defensively makes him the X-factor for the Bulldogs' success.     Geo Iglesias, the freshman phenom for South View, has been nothing short of impressive this season. Despite his youth, Iglesias has played with the poise and consistency of an upperclassman, anchoring the Tigers' defense week after week. His rare combination of size, speed, and instincts allows him to impact the game in multiple ways — whether rushing the passer, stopping the run, or chasing down plays from the backside. What stands out most is his maturity and relentless motor, proving he belongs on the varsity stage. With his skill set and work ethic, Iglesias' future is incredibly bright, and he's quickly becoming one of the top young defensive talents in the area.     [player_tooltip player_id='1706707' first='Landon' last='Bossolono'] has been the heart and soul of his team's defense, leading them in total tackles for the past three seasons. His consistency, toughness, and leadership set the tone every Friday night. Bossolono plays with unmatched effort — diagnosing plays quickly, shedding blocks, and delivering hits that energize his teammates. Whether it's plugging running lanes or chasing downplays in space, he's always around the football. His reliability and passion for the game make him not just the defensive anchor but the emotional leader that keeps his team locked in and competitive every week.     [player_tooltip player_id='1844312' first='Jackson' last='Henry'] has been the heart and soul of his team's defense all season long. A true leader on and off the field, Henry sets the tone with his energy, toughness, and relentless pursuit of the football. Averaging just under 10 tackles per game, he's been a model of consistency — always in the right place, always making plays. His ability to read offenses and deliver in crucial moments has made him the glue that holds the defense together. When his team needs a big stop, Henry is the one they count on to make it happen.     Amir Tate is one of the top overall athletes in the state, and his impact on both sides of the ball proves it week after week. For Hobbton, Tate has been a true difference-maker — leading the team in interceptions on defense and rushing yards on offense. His elite athleticism, versatility, and football IQ allow him to change the game in an instant, whether he's locking down receivers or breaking big runs. Heading into Friday night, Tate stands out as the true X-factor for the Wildcats' defense. If Hobbton is going to come out on top, expect Tate to be at the center of every big play.     Dashawn Carr, the senior LB/Edge for Lakewood, has been a consistent force and emotional leader for the Leopards' defense this season. Averaging eight tackles per game, Carr flies sideline to sideline, using his speed and physicality to make plays all over the field. His ability to diagnose plays quickly and finish with authority makes him one of the most dependable defenders in the area. Whether he's chasing down ball carriers, setting the edge, or pressuring the quarterback, Carr's presence is felt every snap. He's the heartbeat of Lakewood's defense and a true tone-setter for their success.     David “Cito” Zeleya has been the defensive heartbeat for James Kenan this season, making a huge impact from his safety position. What makes his performance even more impressive is that he's leading the team in both interceptions (3) and tackles per game (9) — a rare feat for a defensive back. Zeleya's range, instincts, and ability to read plays allow him to cover ground quickly and deliver key stops in open space. Whether it's coming downhill to make a tackle or dropping back to disrupt the passing game, Cito has proven to be a complete defender. His versatility and playmaking ability make him the X-factor every time the Tigers take the field.

Week 10 features several marquee matchups across the area, and while the offensive fireworks always grab attention, it's the defensive X-factors who could ultimately determine the outcomes. These are the players who set the tone with their toughness, leadership, and ability to make game-changing plays. Whether it's shutting down explosive offenses, controlling the line of scrimmage, or creating turnovers, these defenders will be key to their teams' success under the Friday night lights.