Defensive Playmakers Entering the Quarterfinals

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Nick Jansey – LB – Batavia</strong><br>Batavia's defense feeds off the energy of Jansey. He's physical downhill, attacks the line with purpose, and rarely misses a tackle. Whether he's blowing up inside runs or chasing plays to the sideline, Jansey plays with an intensity that sets the tone for everyone around him. His ability to time the blitz and finish at the quarterback makes him one of the most complete linebackers still in the postseason.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Clayton Jansen – DL – Breese Central</strong><br>Jansen has become the leader of a tough Cougar defense. He wins with quick hands, leverage, and relentless effort. Off the edge, he's been a problem for opposing tackles all year, consistently collapsing pockets and forcing hurried throws. He's the kind of player who demands attention on every snap.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Anthony Beckman – DL – Williamsville</strong><br>Beckman is the anchor up front for Williamsville's defensive line. He brings strength at the point of attack and uses his size and balance to clog running lanes. When the Bullets need a big stop, Beckman's presence inside makes life tough for any offensive line trying to establish rhythm.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Kye Weinzierl – DB – Geneseo</strong><br>Weinzierl is the definition of steady. His football IQ shows up in how well he positions himself — rarely out of place, always around the ball. Whether playing the run or covering ground in the secondary, he's been a key part of Geneseo's defensive consistency.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1335196' first='James' last='McGrath'] – DB – St. Francis (Wheaton)</strong><br>McGrath has been a leader on the back end for St. Francis. He communicates well, reads the field quickly, and fills gaps with confidence. His physicality and open-field tackling give the Spartans a safety who can erase mistakes and create momentum-changing plays.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Sai'Mar Howell – DB – Batavia</strong><br>Howell's confidence shows every time the ball's in the air. He's aggressive in coverage, quick to close space, and trusts his instincts. His ability to turn defense into offense with his ball skills has made Batavia's secondary one of the most dangerous left in the playoffs.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->