D-Block: North Texas Defensive Playmakers in Round Two

<p>The Area Round brought out some of the best defensive performances in North Texas, with several standouts putting together complete, game-changing efforts. These defenders didn't just show up, they took over. Here are the athletes who made the biggest impact as their teams advanced.</p>    <p class="text-gray-700">Few players impacted the game in as many ways as Bauer did in Allen's 41-7 win over Lake Highlands. He recorded 4 tackles, blocked 2 punts, intercepted 2 passes and added a 50-yard kickoff return to flip field position. Bauer thrives in space with controlled footwork and disciplined technique, allowing him to maintain tight coverage. His ball skills stood out once again, as he consistently put himself in position to create takeaways. His ability to contribute on special teams further highlights his all-around value.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/bauer_lebron/status/1992313937887424573?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Calderdon III was outstanding in a 37-20 win over North Forney to help the Indians advance to the third round of the playoffs. He had 11 tackles, an interception, a blocked punt recovery for a TD and an interception to help shut down a potent Falcons offense. </p>   <p>Hector plays in space well with the ability to move around in various defensive looks and make plays. He plays fast but under control, he is a sure tackler who flows to the football with violent intentions. He was the MVP defensively for the Indians.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/HectorC2008/status/1967655819438436369?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Pettijohn continues to show why he's one of the region's most complete linebackers. In a 49-34 victory over Liberty Christian, he posted 6 tackles and 2 quarterback hurries while consistently disrupting the offensive rhythm. His read-and-react ability stands out, he quickly identifies run lanes, screens and developing pass concepts. Pettijohn moves fluidly sideline to sideline, finishing plays with controlled physicality. His versatility makes him a true three-down defender capable of excelling against both spread and power-based attacks.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/kailerpettijohn/status/1993107432562999533?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Gardner anchored the Sunnyvale secondary with 13 tackles, including 7 solo stops. He shows strong range and field vision, diagnosing plays early and preventing explosive gains. Gardner is a sure tackler who plays with sound technique, stepping downhill with confidence and wrapping up in space. His reliability on the back end was a key factor in keeping Sunnyvale's defense steady when they needed it most.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/DrewGardner01/status/1983193891324260409?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Hicks delivered one of the most productive defensive performances of the entire round. In a 35-6 win over Midlothian, he racked up 17 tackles, an interception and a sack while flying around the field. Hicks plays with aggression and confidence, attacking downhill with speed and striking power. He shows strong instincts, reading blocking schemes quickly and locating the football with ease. His ability to rush the passer under control and still arrive with force separates him from many linebackers in his class. Hicks is a 2026 prospect college programs need to evaluate closely.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/CoachR_Lewis/status/1985565682491093228?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Morrow was a force off the edge in Terrell's 41-14 win over Huntsville. He finished with 9 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 tackles for loss and a pass breakup, showcasing his ability to disrupt both the run and passing game. His first-step quickness gave Huntsville's offensive line issues all night, and his length helped him close space rapidly on ball carriers. Morrow plays with a relentless motor that allows him to impact snaps even when he isn't the primary defender. His presence will be critical as Terrell prepares for a major test against South Oak Cliff.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/KeenanMorrowjr/status/1973029233132785878?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Woolard's production over the past two seasons speaks for itself, and he elevated his play even further in a shootout win over Sulphur Springs. He tallied 23.5 tackles, including 13 solo stops, along with 4 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. Woolard is a natural tackler who rarely takes false steps and consistently arrives in the right position. His ability to sift through traffic and take proper angles allows him to clean up plays all over the field. Coming off a junior season with 148 tackles and 25 TFLs, Woolard continues to prove he's one of the most reliable defenders in the region.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/logan_woolard/status/1904624054801174725?s=20 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Hopkins has been the heart of the Jackrabbits' defense. The 5'11, 202-pound standout has 134 tackles this season, including 15 in the Area Round win over Harker Heights. With 400+ career tackles, Hopkins' instincts, field vision, and pursuit speed make him one of the most reliable defenders in the state.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/LandryHopkins1/status/1829946030713864292?s=20 </div></figure>

The Area Round brought out some of the best defensive performances in North Texas, with several standouts putting together complete, game-changing efforts. These defenders didn't just show up, they took over. Here are the athletes who made the biggest impact as their teams advanced.