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<p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1607066' first='Malik' last='Mazyun'] – Cahokia</strong><br>The senior linebacker has been a nightmare for opposing offenses, flying all over the field and finishing with authority. Mazyun leads this group with 138 total tackles and 9 sacks, showing elite closing speed and a willingness to deliver contact. His ability to diagnose plays and punish ball carriers has made him one of the most physical defenders in Illinois this fall.</p>
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<p><strong>Isaiah Bohlmann – Maroa-Forsyth</strong><br>A steady presence for one of the state's toughest programs, Bohlmann has piled up 128 tackles and 10 tackles for loss. He's an instinctive defender who reads plays quickly and doesn't shy away from contact. His physicality and consistency have made him a key piece in Maroa-Forsyth's defensive success.</p>
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<p><strong>Connor Simpson – Pana</strong><br>Simpson has been the heartbeat of Pana's defense, racking up 124 tackles. He plays with great motor and toughness, fighting through blocks and cleaning up plays sideline to sideline.</p>
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<p><strong>Bronc Bogner – Triopia/Meredosia-Chambersburg/Virginia Co-Op</strong><br>Bogner's impact is felt every snap. With 121 total tackles, the senior safety is a downhill defender who loves to hit. He's dependable in open space and brings leadership to the defensive unit.</p>
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<p><strong>Lex Sarantos – Vernon Hills</strong><br>Sarantos plays with a mean streak in the middle of the defense. The senior linebacker has totaled 120 tackles and shows excellent pursuit and form tackling.</p>
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<p><strong>Gavin Hull – Herscher</strong><br>Hull has been a consistent playmaker for Herscher, tallying 116 tackles, 7 TFLs, and 3 sacks. His ability to shed blocks and meet runners in the hole stands out on film.</p>
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<p><strong>Mason Roberts – Herscher</strong><br>Roberts adds a versatile element to Herscher's defense, collecting 115 tackles from the secondary. He's a physical tackler who doesn't hesitate to step up in run support.</p>
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<p><strong>Logan Myers – Grant Community</strong><br>Myers rounds out this list with 113 tackles and strong production between the tackles. He's reliable, tough, and the type of senior every defense needs in the middle.</p>
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Malik MazyunMalikMazyun
5'11" | 165 lbs | LB
Cahokia | 2026 StateIL
– Cahokia The senior linebacker has been a nightmare for opposing offenses, flying all over the field and finishing with authority. Mazyun leads this group with 138 total tackles and 9 sacks, showing elite closing speed and a willingness to deliver contact. His ability to diagnose plays and punish ball carriers has made him one of the most physical defenders in Illinois this fall.
