Login Subscribe
    • Players/Parents
    • College Coaches
  • Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
    Alabama
    Arizona
    Arkansas
    California
    Canada
    Colorado
    Dakotas
    Florida
    Georgia
    Idaho
    Illinois
    Indiana
    Iowa
    Kansas
    Kentucky
    Louisiana
    Maryland
    Michigan
    Minnesota
    Mississippi
    Missouri
    Nebraska
    Nevada
    New England
    New Jersey
    New Mexico
    New York
    North Carolina
    Ohio
    Oklahoma
    Oregon
    Pennsylvania
    South Carolina
    Tennessee
    Texas
    Utah
    Virginia
    Washington
    West Virginia
    Wisconsin
  • Loading...
  • Loading...
  • Tournaments
    • 7 on 7 7 on 7
    Showcases
    • Stock Up Showcase Tour Stock Up Showcase Tour
    About Our Events
  • Prep Redzone for
    • Players
    • Parents
    • Club Coaches
    • High School Coaches
    • College Coaches
    • Fans
    View All Features
    • Coverage Access Prep Redzone articles year-round without ads.
    • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
    • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Redzone database.
    • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
    • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
    • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process
    • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
    • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
    • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
    • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Redzone combines.
    • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
    • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
    • Scouts
    • How We Rank
    • About Us
  • Colorado
  • Rankings
    • How We Rank

    • Archived Rankings

    • 2026 Rankings

    • 2027 Watch List

    • 2028 Watch List

  • Player Database
  • Team Database
  • Scores
  • Scouts
  • 2025 Team Previews
  • Home
  • Coverage
      Choose Your State Middle School Coverage
      Alabama
      Arizona
      Arkansas
      California
      Canada
      Colorado
      Dakotas
      Florida
      Georgia
      Idaho
      Illinois
      Indiana
      Iowa
      Kansas
      Kentucky
      Louisiana
      Maryland
      Michigan
      Minnesota
      Mississippi
      Missouri
      Nebraska
      Nevada
      New England
      New Jersey
      New Mexico
      New York
      North Carolina
      Ohio
      Oklahoma
      Oregon
      Pennsylvania
      South Carolina
      Tennessee
      Texas
      Utah
      Virginia
      Washington
      West Virginia
      Wisconsin
  • Events
      Tournaments
      • 7 on 7 7 on 7
      Showcases
      • Stock Up Showcase Tour Stock Up Showcase Tour
      About Our Events
  • Rankings
      Loading...
  • Scores
      Loading...
  • Features
      Prep Redzone for
      • Players
      • Parents
      • Club Coaches
      • High School Coaches
      • College Coaches
      • Fans
      View All Features
      • Coverage Access Prep Redzone articles year-round without ads.
      • Rankings See how players stack up in each state.
      • Player Profiles Build your own profile and join the Prep Redzone database.
      • Coach Views Get notified when a college coach views your profile.
      • Profile Trends Track your Player Profile views over time.
      • Recruiting Tasks Stay on-track in the recruiting process
      • Recruiting Dashboard All your recruiting tools in a single place.
      • College Match Recommends colleges that match with your profile.
      • Coach Contacts Contact any program in the country.
      • Event Credits Save $25 on all Prep Redzone combines.
      • Recruiting Tips Become an expert on the recruiting process.
      • College Email Templates Send customized emails directly to college coaches.
  • About Us
      • Scouts
      • How We Rank
      • About Us
  • Support
Login Subscribe

Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches

Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Robert Davis
Robert Davis October 17, 2025 @ 12:49 PM
Facebook
X (Formerly Twitter)

In this article:

Miles Knuth
Miles Knuth 5'10" | 200 lbs | LB/RB | 2027
CO
Michael Kemmis
Michael Kemmis 5'8" | 160 lbs | LB/TE | 2026
CO
Janoah Brown
Janoah Brown 6'1" | 170 lbs | LB/TE | 2026
CO
Carter Woods
Carter Woods 5'10" | 180 lbs | LB/RB | 2026
CO
Xavier Benavidez
Xavier Benavidez 5'9" | 170 lbs | LB | 2026
CO
<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Today we will be taking a look at some of 3A's top tacklers that have been making a statement to this point in the season. These are the stock watch players that you will need to know moving forward. If you are new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a 30% discount off of your first subscription. If you are returning and want 30% off of the monthly subscription use code: DavisPRZ30 for a discount.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1570719"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f281bdae405"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Woods has set the tone across 3A as one of the most complete defenders this season. Leading 3A with 73 total tackles, Woods plays with instinct and precision, diagnosing plays before they develop. He adds four tackles for loss, one sack and an interception he returned for a touchdown, showcasing his ability to impact every phase of the game. Woods thrives on physicality, bringing aggression and consistency to every snap. His closing speed allows him to limit big plays and his awareness in coverage makes him a threat to turn defense into offense. As one of the state's most hard nose tacklers, Woods continues to be a key player for this team and a leader who defines effort and discipline.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1621485"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f281bdae4a8"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Kemmis has been the definition of reliability for his defense, serving as a wall in the middle with 71 total tackles. His strength and vision allow him to diagnose plays quickly and stuff opposing runners at the point of attack. Kemmis adds a sack, a tackle for loss and a fumble recovery to his impressive totals, showing his ability to make timely plays when his team needs it most. What stands out most is his consistency, he's a defender who rarely misses assignments and always seems to be around the football. His presence inside has been critical in stopping opponents' ground games and his leadership has helped establish a defensive identity that leans on toughness and discipline.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1616811"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f281bdae5ab"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Brown has been a nightmare for opposing offenses, constantly finding ways to disrupt plays near or behind the line of scrimmage. With 70 total tackles and four sacks, Brown's high motor and physical playstyle make him one of the most feared defenders in 3A. He excels at shedding blocks and reading run lanes, allowing him to make stops before runners can gain momentum. Brown's timing on blitzes and relentless pursuit of the football make him an every down problem for opposing offenses. His ability to control the tempo of the game from the defensive side is what separates him from most. Week after week, Brown's performance has been a driving force behind his team's defensive success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1958112"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f281bdae634"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Knuth has been a steady force for his defense, filling gaps and creating chaos in the backfield. With 66 total tackles, five tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery, Knuth's production speaks for itself. His instincts allow him to flow sideline to sideline and make plays that change momentum. He's a player who thrives on contact and reads offenses with patience and control. He has the ability to crash down to stop the run or chase down a play from behind, Knuth's effort and consistency make him one of the most valuable defenders in 3A. His impact goes beyond the stat sheet, he's the type of player that sets the tone for the entire unit.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1471236"],"_player_evaluations_0_player":"field_62ab9d62ecf2c","player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_override_profile_image":"override-player-profile-image","player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"","_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f281bdae6b7"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Benavidez has showcased his versatility in every possible way, proving to be one of 3A's most dynamic defensive players. With 60 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, one sack, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery and two interceptions, Benavidez is a true playmaker who thrives in any situation. His athleticism allows him to play both in coverage and in the box, making him a matchup problem for offenses. Benavidez reads plays quickly and has the physical tools to make game changing stops. His ability to generate turnovers and create scoring opportunities for his team has been invaluable. A balanced mix of speed, instinct and power, Benavidez continues to establish himself as one of 3A's top defensive threats.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->

Today we will be taking a look at some of 3A's top tacklers that have been making a statement to this point in the season. These are the stock watch players that you will need to know moving forward. If you are new and looking to subscribe use the code: Davis30 for a 30% discount off of your first subscription. If you are returning and want 30% off of the monthly subscription use code: DavisPRZ30 for a discount.

Carter Woods

Carter Woods

CO
LB/RB
HEIGHT 5'10"
WEIGHT 180
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Carter
Woods LB/RB
Class
2026
Height
5'10"
Weight
180
HS
Mead
|
CO
Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Woods has set the tone across 3A as one of the most complete defenders this season. Leading 3A...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Carter Woods

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Mead
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Michael Kemmis

Michael Kemmis

CO
LB/TE
HEIGHT 5'8"
WEIGHT 160
POS LB/TE
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Michael
Kemmis LB/TE
Class
2026
Height
5'8"
Weight
160
HS
Palisade
|
CO
Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Kemmis has been the definition of reliability for his defense, serving as a wall in the middle with...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Michael Kemmis

State: Colorado
School: Palisade
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Janoah Brown

Janoah Brown

CO
LB/TE
HEIGHT 6'1"
WEIGHT 170
POS LB/TE
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Janoah
Brown LB/TE
Class
2026
Height
6'1"
Weight
170
HS
Harrison
|
CO
Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Brown has been a nightmare for opposing offenses, constantly finding ways to disrupt plays near or behind the...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Janoah Brown

State: Colorado
School: Harrison
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Miles Knuth

Miles Knuth

HEIGHT 5'10"
WEIGHT 200
POS LB/RB
CLASS 2027
View Player
​
Miles
Knuth LB/RB
Class
2027
Height
5'10"
Weight
200
HS
Conifer
|
CO
Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Knuth has been a steady force for his defense, filling gaps and creating chaos in the backfield. With...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Miles Knuth

Twitter
State: Colorado
School: Conifer
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Xavier Benavidez

Xavier Benavidez

CO
LB
HEIGHT 5'9"
WEIGHT 170
POS LB
CLASS 2026
View Player
​
Xavier
Benavidez LB
Class
2026
Height
5'9"
Weight
170
HS
Kennedy
|
CO
Colorado’s 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches
Benavidez has showcased his versatility in every possible way, proving to be one of 3A’s most dynamic defensive...
Written by Robert Davis
Read more at PrepRedzone.com
Prep Redzone

Xavier Benavidez

State: Colorado
School: Kennedy
Subscribe below to view this player's evaluation

Highlights

Prep Redzone

Access all of Prep Redzone

Continue reading this article and more.

Continue Reading
Already a subscriber? Log in

Rankings

472 Players Ranked

  • 1
    Tufanua Ionatana “T.I.” Umu-Cais

    Tufanua Ionatana “T.I.” Umu-Cais

    Cherry Creek

    Washington (WA)
  • 2
    Deacon Schmitt

    Deacon Schmitt

    Windsor

    Oklahoma
  • 3
    Camden Jensen

    Camden Jensen

    Heritage

    UCLA
  • 4
    Kannon Smith

    Kannon Smith

    Valor Christian

    USC
  • 5
    Mason Bandhauer

    Mason Bandhauer

    Fort Collins

    Iowa State
View Full Rankings

Related Articles

  • Stars Shine in the City: Denver West vs. Highland OT Thriller

    Stars Shine in the City: Denver West vs. Highland OT Thriller

    Nathaniel Kue • October 20

  • Colorado’s Tackling Titans: 4A Defensive Leaders Owning the Field

    Colorado’s Tackling Titans: 4A Defensive Leaders Owning the Field

    Robert Davis • October 20

  • Five to Know: Evaluating Colorado’s Premier High School Talents

    Five to Know: Evaluating Colorado’s Premier High School Talents

    Matt Tate • October 19

  • Mid-season Standouts – Which prospects are making their mark?

    Mid-season Standouts – Which prospects are making their mark?

    Nathaniel Kue • October 16

  • Under the Lights: Colorado 3A’s Most Reliable Pass Catchers

    Under the Lights: Colorado 3A’s Most Reliable Pass Catchers

    Robert Davis • October 16

Follow Us

  • Robert Davis

    Robert Davis

    @RobertLDavisIV

  • Matt Tate

    Matt Tate

    @MattT8Scouting

  • Nathaniel Kue

    Nathaniel Kue

    @CoachKue

Loading...
Home Colorado Colorado's 3A Ironmen: Small School Tacklers Owning the Trenches

Prep Network

  • Prep Network
  • Prep Dig
  • Prep Girls Hoops
  • Prep Hoops
  • Prep Lacrosse
  • Prep Redzone
  • Prep Soccer
  • Prep Softball

Company

  • News
  • About
  • Careers
  • Store
  • Partner Interest Form

Resources

  • Terms of Service
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • Cookie Policy
  • NCSA College Recruiting
  • Recruiting Tips
  • Student Loan Resources
  • College Scholarship Search

Support

  • My Account
  • Contact
  • Sitemap

© 2025 Prep Redzone. All rights reserved.