Sophomore Defensive Studs

<!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Anthony Toliver Jr. — HHS (Country Club Hills)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Toliver has been a force off the edge for HHS, leading all sophomores with 5 sacks in 6 games. What stands out is his motor and burst, allowing him to consistently win matchups against older linemen. With 37 total tackles and 7 tackles for loss, he's proving to be more than just a pass rush specialist — he's an all-around disruptor. Toliver's production at this stage projects him as a name to know moving forward, and he's the type of defender who can change a game with one big play. His consistency week to week is a big reason HHS has been competitive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Avery Neathrey — TMCV (CO-OP)</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Neathrey brings a rare blend of versatility, playing both quarterback and defensive end, yet still ranks near the top in sacks with 4.5 on the year. He's totaled 34 tackles and 4 TFL, showing he can impact the game on both sides of the ball. His physical style and athleticism make him a matchup problem, and his defensive ceiling continues to climb with every rep. The fact that he contributes at a high level on both offense and defense makes him one of the most intriguing young players in the state. As he continues to develop his technique, his impact as a pass rusher could grow even more.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Euhyness Alexander — Rich Township</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Alexander has quietly put together one of the most consistent sophomore seasons in the state. He's sitting at 4 sacks with 32 tackles on the year. What makes him stand out is his effort and physicality. He's shown strong hands and good get-off, traits that translate well as he develops. Alexander plays with great energy, which allows him to stay active in pursuit and make plays even when the initial rush doesn't hit home. He's a player to keep a close eye on down the stretch.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Corbin Walton — Carlinville</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Walton is a name emerging out of central Illinois. At 4 sacks and 21 tackles, he's proving to be a strong interior presence. His ability to push the pocket and win with leverage makes him a problem inside. He's not just an edge rusher — he can collapse the pocket from multiple alignments, which is valuable for his long-term projection. Walton plays with toughness and strength, giving Carlinville a key defensive anchor up front.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading">[player_tooltip player_id='1682055' first='Jhalen' last='Clanton'] — St. Rita</h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Clanton is a fast-rising defensive end from one of the state's top programs. He's posted 2.5 sacks, 28 tackles, and 4 TFL, showing a well-rounded skill set. His first step is explosive, and he plays with a physical edge that fits St. Rita's defensive identity. Clanton has the traits to become one of the better pass rushers in his class, and his production as a sophomore already reflects that potential. Expect his numbers to climb as the season goes on, especially as his role continues to grow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->