Underdogs That Could Make a Run in the Playoffs

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>We have made it! Playoffs are here and it is time to battle for 7 State Championship crowns. Without fail, every fall we see teams get hot at the right time, and the path perfectly aligns for them to make a surprisingly deep run in the playoffs. A team that came into the new season with a #5 seed or lower in their respective division. These moments happen for one of several reasons. Getting healthy at the right time, things clicking at the right time, matchups or style of play favoring the lower seed, or the talent is just superior. Before the playoffs kickoff on Friday at 7 pm I want to go through and identify some of my favorite potential underdogs across the seven divisions to keep a close eye on in round one, and maybe beyond. We will look at why the team could be in position for a run as well as list a few players that fans and college recruiters should be keeping an eye on. We start in Division 1.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">#7 De Pere (5-4 Overall, 4-3 Conference)</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The record for the Redbirds is what it is. It is what led them to this #7 seeding and a round 1 matchup with Neenah. However, that record also comes with a ton of high level experience. De Pere did not shy away from playing the best of the best. In conference alone they had to play reigning D1 Champs Bay Port as well as D2 favorite in 2025 West De Pere. Plus in the non-conference they went up against reigning D4 Champs Green Bay Notre Dame. This team is hardened from those battles and ready for the playoffs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>I also love this matchup for De Pere because of how Neenah plays. Neenah wants to run the ball and control the clock as much as they can. De Pere has a front seven that will be ready for that physical battle. It is also extremely noteworthy and something to watch that standout QB Ashton VanBeek missed Week 9 for Neenah. If the outstanding dual threat QB is out that will also open the door to De Pere. De Pere on offense should be able to hang with teams too. They have an explosive passing attack that features 20 TDs in the regular season led by a senior QB, a senior WR, and a pair of senior RBs who have done well to keep defenses honest. If De Pere can stay balanced on offense and fly around the trenches on defense they can play with the #2 seed.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Watch</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1570847"],"_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-68f98b233f4da"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>55 Tackles on the season</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Fast, physical, highly-instinctual ILB who can take over a game on defense. Plays through traffic so well, great tackler, and has a nose for the football. One of the must watch players in this game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Sam Robb","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'1u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"185","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2410","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"De Pere","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f98b233f5b3"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>48 Receptions, 674 Yards, 11 TDs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Dynamic route runner. Can create space with his speed off the line or with his body control through breaks and burst out of breaks. Gifted hands and ball tracking skills, especially downfield. A legitimate playmaker out wide.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1905287"],"_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-68f98b233f60b"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>109/172, 1,347 Yards, 19 TDs/2 INTs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Pocket passer QB, great decision maker who is going to protect the ball. Wins with his smart ball placement and excellent accuracy to every level of the field. Sleeper QB prospect who could take off this postseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Hayden Cornell","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'0u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"210","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2496","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"De Pere","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f98b233f6c1"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>73 Tackles, 1 TFL</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Team's leading tackler. A gap-responsible LB who is quick to close downhill against the run. Power to fight over the top of OL blocks. Nose for the ball and understands how to get to it through traffic.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">#5 Verona (6-3 Overall, 6-1 Conference)</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Things started off slow for Verona in 2025. They came out of the gate 0-2 in non-conference play against a pair of good teams. The team did a great job of responding from there and going on a 6-1 run once conference play started. Their only loss came to conference champion Middleton in a tough battle. Middleton is just the start of the foes they have faced that have this Verona team ready for playoffs. They also took on Sun Prairie East, Oconomowoc, and Madison West. All of which are playoffs teams in 2025.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Another reason this team can get hot and make a run is that they can score in bunches. They hit 30 or more 5 times this season, hit 40 or more 4 times, and even broke 50 3 times on offense. The Verona defense is also a nightmare to try and find weak spots in. Through 9 games they haven't allowed more than 28 points and only let teams crack 20 points 3 times all season. Being battle-tested, stout on defense, and explosive on offense is the trifecta for what it takes to go on a run when playoffs roll around. Verona has it all. They also have individual talent. This is a very deep team, but let's look at who to keep a particularly close eye on among all the talent on this roster.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Watch</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1610036"],"_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-68f98b233f71b"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>35 Receptions, 482 Yards, 7 TDs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Massive mismatch who dominates in 50/50, jump ball scenarios. Vertical threat and also a redzone standout. Large, strong frame and an equally large catch radius for his QB to target.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1653433"],"_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-68f98b233f76e"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>26 Receptions, 370 Yards, 4 TDs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Electric route runner. Explosive agility paired with body control to dominate with his ability to get out of route breaks and back to top speed. Excellent hands and ball tracking deep downfield. Has made some insane catches as a sophomore.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1515864"],"_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-68f98b233f7b9"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Elite OT talent. Length, size, mobility, flexibility all among the best in the state. Even without having his frame filled out the big man is able to maul DL at this level. Can play with a really low pad level despite his elite frame thanks to his ankle and knee flexibility. Dominant force to set the tone in the trenches.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":["not_in_db"],"_player_evaluations_0_not_in_database":"field_62aba48cecf2d","player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_selected_featured_image":"field_62cca28ffa4e7","player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"Jackson Guenzler- Soda","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_player_name":"field_62aba4c9ecf2f","player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"2026","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_graduating_class":"field_62aba4ddecf30","player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"6'1u0022","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_height":"field_62aba4e8ecf31","player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"195","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_weight":"field_65b288425ecf6","player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"2496","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_position":"field_62aba4f0ecf32","player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"Verona","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_school":"field_62aba4fdecf33","player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details_club_team":"field_62d20e723441a","player_evaluations_0_player_details":"","_player_evaluations_0_player_details":"field_62aba4afecf2e","player_evaluations":1,"_player_evaluations":"field_62aba7547dc44"},"mode":"preview","alignText":"left","anchor":"acf-block-68f98b233f85c"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>84 Tackles, 9 TFLs, 3 Sacks, 1 FF, 2 PBUs, 1 INT</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Anchor in the middle of the defense. Nose for the football with range to get to it quickly. Physical and violent tackler. Impressive versatility. Can blitz, drop into coverage and is fantastic working through traffic against the run game. A guy Verona can have on the field all three downs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1363713"],"_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-68f98b233f8b3"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>33 Tackles, 6 TFLs, 5 Sacks</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>OLB/edge playmaker. Powerful frame that can win with bull rush or with hand fighting. Strong burst off the line. Can turn that speed into power. Success from a two and three point stance. Stout on the edge against the outside run game.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">#5 Waterford (5-4 Overall, 4-3 Conference)</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>There is a common theme when going through each of these teams. The fact that they have been battled tested. Unfortunately for most of them those tests didn't go their way and that's why the seeding is #5 or lower. However, that experience is so valuable and can help elevate those teams going forward. Waterford looks like one of those teams ready to take that experience and turn the tables.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>They are a roster that brings size and physicality to so many positions. From the OL to LB to RB. Basically you can look right through the middle of the formation on offense and defense and find big, strong, imposing athletes ready to go to war in Round 1 of the playoffs. The production also matches that team makeup. Waterford is going to run the ball as much and as often as they can. They have 1600+ yards rushing through 9 games compared to 750+ yards passing. You will see in the Players to Know why they want to stick on the ground. The Waterford defense allowed 3 teams to score 30 points or more. They are all playoff teams. They also have 6 games where they held teams to 21 or fewer points. This unit has what it takes to beat teams down and wear them down. Can they put it all together?</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Know</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1284286"],"_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-68f98b233f904"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>175 Carries, 1,089 Yards, 11 TDs, 8 Receptions, 83 Yards, 2 TFLs, 2 Sacks</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Physical runner, big frame that packs a punch. Has the speed to break off big runs when he gets into the open field. One cut runner that takes what is there and can create yards after contact.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1733905"],"_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-68f98b233f94e"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>110 Tackles, 16 TFLs, 6 Sacks, 1 FF, 1 FR</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>An LB that is literally everywhere. Elite production in the front seven. Has consistently gotten into the backfield with his ability to get through the trenches untouched. Strong closing burst and tackling. Developing strong instincts for the LB position.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1227022"],"_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-68f98b233f9bb"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Massive OT. His big hands are loaded up with power and it shows up over and over on tape with how easily he can whip DL around. Has that bulldozer power in his lower body to remove DL from the trenches and break open running lanes. Able to create an overwhelmingly amount of force quickly out of his stance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1227023"],"_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-68f98b233fa0c"} --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"placeholder":"Add evaluation here...","className":"text-gray-700"} --> <p class="text-gray-700">Very long frame, carries his 275 lbs very well with room to add more down the road. A nimble big man who can win with positioning and leverage. Also mauls DL with his power. A kid that can win with his run blocking and pass blocking.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">#5 Port Washington (6-3, 6-1 Conference)</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Port Washington might be my favorite underdog. They have a really strong record for a 5 seed and have done battle with teams that will have them ready for a postseason push. The way this team produces and performs perfectly fits what you need in the postseason. On offense they are so balanced, piling up 1,635 yards passing and 1,208 yards rushing in the regular season. That balance is going to put stress on the defense because they have to be prepared for anything and everything on every play.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On defense this team is experienced and ready to fly around. Nine out of ten of the team's top tacklers are seniors or juniors. The top four leaders in TFLs are all seniors. The top three in sacks are all seniors. In the high school ranks you can put together a special season when experience and maturity come together. Port Washington has that across their roster, but especially on their defense. It is a defense that has given up 29 points or less every single game this season too. I'm fired up to see the pieces come together in Round 1.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Know</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1628004"],"_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-68f98b233fa5b"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>88/147, 1,427 Yards, 17 TDs/4 INTs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Has stepped in and taken the reigns at QB1 on varsity. Excellent athlete with quick feet to set and throw. Also very agile within the pocket to buy time and speed when he needs to break the pocket. Undersized, but his mechanics have helped him to be able to fire the ball into spots on a rope.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["700151"],"_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-68f98b233faa5"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>172 Carries, 1,013 Yards, 12 TDs, 8 Receptions, 197 Yards, 2 TDs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Powerful lower body with excellent contact balance. Thick, strong frame to easily rip through arm tackles. Does a ton of damage attacking up the middle because of that power and low center of gravity. Also has the athleticism to break away in the open field and has also handled some return duties. Putting together a very productive senior season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1620603"],"_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-68f98b233faef"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>29 Receptions, 365 Yards, 6 TDs, 30 Rush Yards, 198 Pass Yards, 2 Pass TDs, 23 Tackles</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Has contributed as a passer, defender, receiver and rusher in the regular season. Completes the powerful run game with his speed on the outside. Several examples of that speed easily getting behind the defense for big plays. Also a talented CB with the quick feet and reactive athleticism to play tight coverage.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1643666"],"_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-68f98b233fb41"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>52 Tackles, 8 TFLs, 2 FRs, 65 Rushing Yards, 15 Receptions, 180 Yards, 3 TDs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Our top recruit on the team. Physical, strong frame with next level instincts. Excellent range to easily get to the sideline same time as the RB gets there. Closes violently and runs through his tackles. Big, rangy, physical, instinctual. A steal in the Class of 2026.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":1} --> <h1 class="wp-block-heading">#5 Seymour (7-2, 6-1 Conference)</h1> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>As you get into these smaller and smaller divisions we see individuals have larger and larger impacts. So being able to field a ton of senior talent on these smaller school rosters can swing things in your way very quickly. Seymour has that opportunity this season. Essentially every single statistical leader on the team is a senior, and most are a senior with years of experience. They have been here before, they know the stakes, and they know what it takes.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>On top of the invaluable leadership and experience this team has produced at a very balanced rate. Almost 1200 passing yards and 1700 rushing yards force defenses into positions where they are out of position a ton because many teams at this level don't have the top end talent at every position like the large schools. Then on defense you have a unit that simply doesn't give up points. They have only given up 14 or more points 1 time all season. They make teams earn every single yard. That balance and that type of immovable defense can surprise a lot of teams and lead to a ton of success.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Players to Know</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1609798"],"_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-68f98b233fb90"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>68/110, 1,153 Yards, 14 TDs/ 4 INTs, 213 Rush Yards, 3 TDs, 21 Tackles, 1 INT</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Two way contributor as a DB and a dual threat QB. His athleticism at safety could lead to that being his home at the next level. Picks apart defenses in the quick passing game, hitting guys in stride so they can create plays after the catch. Versatile and productive senior.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1545262"],"_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-68f98b233fbd9"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>74 Rush Yards, 1 TDs, 22 Receptions, 449 Yards, 5 TDs, 22 Tackles, 1 TFL, 1 FF, 1 FR, 5 PBUs, 2 INTs</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>A really tough matchup with his speed out wide. Has the size to box out DBs and also does a great job of making blocks downfield. Able to get open early in the play. Natural hands pluck the ball out of the air. Really nice weapon and under the radar prospect.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1698783"],"_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-68f98b233fc21"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>120 Carries, 878 Yards, 12 TDs, 11 Receptions, 199 Yards, 1 TD, 60 Tackles, 31 TFLs, 13.5 Sacks, 4 FFs, 2 PBUs, 1 INT</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Extremely productive on both sides of the ball. Absolute force off the edge at DE/OLB. Powerfully explosive first step that gets him into the backfield free over and over. Range to chase down the ball and closes quickly before the ball carrier can make a move. Has the power to walk OTs or TEs off the line. Runs with that same power, but surprisingly nimble on his feet and has a bit of a second gear in space. I'm looking for Salzman to finish his senior season with an elite stat line if they can put together a run like I know this team can.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block --> <!-- wp:acf/evaluation-block {"name":"acf/evaluation-block","data":{"player_evaluations_0_player":["1610342"],"_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-68f98b233fc6a"} --> <!-- wp:list --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong><em>63 Tackles, 8 TFLs, 1 Sack, 1 FF, 2 FRs, 1 INT</em></strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Exactly what you want in the middle of a smaller school defense. A kid that is going to set the tone with his physicality. A kid that can disengage with power on his way into the backfield. A senior that does a great job of doing his job, filling his gap, and getting to the football. Don't sleep on the senior LB.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- /wp:acf/evaluation-block -->