Round Three Playoff Standouts in DFW
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Round three of the playoffs saw some outstanding performances by players who helped their teams advance to the Regional Finals. Last season the DFW area had teams who won state titles and some of those programs are on the cusp…
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Continue ReadingRound three of the playoffs saw some outstanding performances by players who helped their teams advance to the Regional Finals. Last season the DFW area had teams who won state titles and some of those programs are on the cusp of reaching those heights again in 2023. Here are several players who had phenomenal games and who will be key in the their team’s game plan in the Regional Finals in Round Four of the playoffs.
Hawkins is an exceptional quarterback with a versatile skill set. His arm talent enables precise throws across the route tree, showcasing a powerful arm with a delicate touch on deep passes. Noteworthy is his ability to make off-platform throws with remarkable accuracy. Hawkins is not only a threat through the air but also a dynamic runner in open space, combining speed and agility effectively. His recent performance, going 16 for 19 with 208 yards and 4 touchdowns, along with 71 rushing yards and a touchdown, underscores his impact on the field. Look for Michael to continue to lead Emerson as they prepare to take on Colleyville Heritage this weekend in the Regional Finals.
Anderson’s playmaking ability has been on display as the signal caller at Parish Episcopal for three seasons. His consistent success in clinching two consecutive state titles not only reflects his individual excellence but also underscores his leadership and ability to elevate his team’s performance. Anderson’s proficiency in passing is evident through his strong arm and pinpoint accuracy, a lethal combination that allows him to efficiently navigate and make any throw on the route tree. His excellent field vision adds another layer to his quarterbacking skills, enabling him to make split-second decisions and effectively distribute the ball to different receivers. What sets Anderson apart is his dynamic playing style. His capacity to throw accurately while on the move showcases a rare skill set, making him a threat even when pressured. Additionally, his athleticism as a runner adds a new dimension to his game, allowing him to extend plays and pick up crucial yards on the ground. This dual-threat capability makes him a challenging opponent for any defense.
In his most recent playoff win to clinch a third state title appearance, Anderson’s stellar performance further solidified his reputation. Completing 18 out of 23 passes for an impressive 313 yards and three passing touchdowns highlights his efficiency in the passing game. His contribution on the ground with 50 rushing yards and a touchdown emphasizes his well-rounded skill set.Pride Jr. is a route technician, he has the quickness to win off of the line of scrimmage consistently and his ability to get open no matter what coverage the defense is playing makes his game rise to the surface when he lines up. He is phonebooth quick, he moves fluidly and Pride Jr. has the skill set to be a reliable target for his quarterback. Antonio has found his niche among a talented group of skill players at Desoto and he excels at making the difficult grabs look routine. As the 6A DII playoffs hit the fourth round, Pride Jr.’s game continues to elevate. Against Willis he left no doubt that he is a difficult cover, showing speed and excelling at making plays after the catch, torching the Willis Wildkats with 7 receptions for 95 yards and 3 TDs in 65-31 win. College programs looking for a wide out who can work the route tree like a veteran and who has the speed to get deep, should have Antonio on their lists. Pride Jr. checks off all the boxes for a next level wide receiver.
Highlights
Emmers is a big body target who can line up at multiple positions and attack defenses from all angles. Jacob has a stout, compact build, he understands how to use great leverage to makes catches in traffic and his explosiveness to elevate above defenders enables him to win on the 50/50 contested balls. Emmers is a threat anytime he touches the ball, he is a an elusive runner who has the power to break arm tackles, his short area quickness allows him to make defenders miss in the open field and he has the game breaking burst and speed to go the distance from anywhere on the football field. Emmers was unstoppable in the third round matchup against Panther Creek, leading Anna with 6 receptions for 169 yards and 3 TDs, including the game-winner, in a 42-38 victory over Panther Creek. Look for Emmers to continue to make splash plays as Anna prepares to take on Stephenville in the fourth round of the playoffs.
Reid’s remarkable performance on the field shows off his multifaceted skill set. His exceptional vision allows him to navigate through the chaos of the game with precision, strategically setting up blocks to maximize yardage. Reid’s explosive burst at the second level not only showcases his speed but also makes him a formidable force to reckon with on the field. His ability to hit the hole like his “hair is on fire” reflects an unmatched level of determination and drive. This relentless approach, coupled with his speed, enables him to cover considerable distances, making him a constant threat to break away for significant gains. Reid’s versatility extends beyond rushing, as his great hands make him a valuable asset in the passing game. Whether catching screen passes or executing plays out of the backfield, he adds an extra dimension to his team’s offensive strategy. In the crucial semifinal playoff game versus Antonian Prep, Reid’s performance was superb, amassing an impressive 270 total yards and securing an astounding 6 touchdowns. Such a standout showing not only demonstrates his individual prowess but also highlights his instrumental role in leading Parish Episcopal back to the state finals. Reid’s impact on the field is undeniably a key factor in his team’s success, showcasing a player who excels in every aspect of the game.