5A Quarterfinals Recap: Legend vs Columbine
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The #2nd ranked Columbine Rebels faced off against the #10th Legend Titans in the quarterfinals at JeffCo Stadium. This game was a nail biter throughout the first half. Legend was up 3-0 going into half. However, the Rebels came back,…
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Continue ReadingThe #2nd ranked Columbine Rebels faced off against the #10th Legend Titans in the quarterfinals at JeffCo Stadium. This game was a nail biter throughout the first half. Legend was up 3-0 going into half. However, the Rebels came back, scoring 21 points in the 2nd half while holding the Titans to 0 points. Final score was 21-3 with Columbine heading on to face #14th ranked Chatfield. There was a ton of talented players that showcased their skills. Here’s a handful that stood out to me.
Shuss had a fantastic game against the Rebels, and was a big reason Legend held them scoreless in the 1st half. He accounted for 15 total tackles (8 solo, 7 assisted). Shuss has the prototypical size for a safety. He measures at 6’2″ 190 pounds and he’s only a junior! Shuss has very good athletic ability due to very good speed, change of direction and acceleration/quickness. Brody demonstrates good mental processing by watching the QB’s eyes and either following them or sitting in his zone to make a play. He’s a very hard hitter and will knock the ball out just from a hit. He’s a good tackler, and offensive players will suffocate in his grasp. Great in the run game. Also he made a big play on special teams. Fielding a punt within the 5 to give the defense a chance. I can’t wait to see what he puts together for his senior year.
Highlights
Dual position stud that plays RB/DB for the Rebels. Snyder accounted for 25 carries for 137 yards on the ground. As a DB, he had 6 tackles (all solo), 1 interception, and 1 pass deflection. Snyder has very good athletic ability. Very good speed, change of direction and acceleration. As a RB, he shows good mental processing by choosing the correct holes made by the offensive line. Good burst of acceleration to create separation. Physicality is apart of Snyder’s game, and he won’t shy away from contact. He looks to initiate the contact, and usually comes out on top. As a corner, Snyder was like glue. He executes his assignments consistently and is good in zone & man coverage. He shows good competitive toughness by having a high motor and not giving up on plays. Great performance, and I’m looking forward to see how he builds off it next game.
James was all over the field against Legend. He accounted for 15 total tackles (13 solo, 2 assisted) 1 pass deflection, and 1 rushing touchdown. Cillessen demonstrated many qualities that any college would be fortunate to have. He’s very quick and all over the field. He’s able to do that thanks to very good athletic ability, and good mental processing. He’ll read the QB’s eyes and follow them to the ball carrier. Cillessen is a very good tackler, and it takes a lot for the tackles to be shed. A strong powerful bull rush is an excellent tool in his arsenal. He’ll use his good strength and low pad level to knock the offensive lineman on their feet and create pressure on the QB. Solid spin move as well. He’ll alternate between the different rushing styles to keep the offensive line on their toes.
Peyton Burcar Peyton Burcar 6’3″ | 255 lbs | OL Columbine | 2025 State CO was killing it all night long for the Rebels. Burcar was locking down the right side of the offensive line, and was a major cog in the Columbine machine. Kid’s a bruising right tackle. His strength is evident as soon as you put on the tape. Burcar has good quickness coming out of his stance, and engages in contact first. He uses his low pad level to achieve leverage over the defender. In combination with very good hand placement and good hand strength, it utilizes him to control and steer the defender making a hole. Good anchor, and combats the bull rush well by swatting the defender’s arms and digging his feet in. Burcar is good at accelerating to the 2nd level after demolishing at the 1st. He’s good at pull blocking, and multiple times would see him knock the defender on their back. Kid’s a mauler and I’m ecstatic to see him continue growing as an offensive linemen.
I had to mention EFB’s career game. He had 20 tackles (10 solo, 10 assisted) with 2 tackles for a loss. I already discussed his skills in last week’s recap, so check that article out for a more in depth look at his skills. Seeing this type of performance puts a smile on my face. When his team needed him most, he took it up another notch showcasing very good competitive toughness. Any college would be lucky to have him on their roster.