Unveiling Hidden Gems: 5 Players Who Can Help Elevate A Program

We're looking at 5 versatile players today who are under the radar, yet fairly productive and good athletes and what they can offer a program.    I'm not sure many other players have had the career Terry has had. In football, track, and wrestling, Terry is a star athlete. Anytime he steps on a field or map to compete you can see him flip the switch. He's a great athlete with good control over his body. He doesn't try to do too much and can do simple things like let his blocks set up before he hits the hole. 1341 rushing yards and 15 TDs with 45 tackles and an interception last year rounded out his junior season, but there should be much more to come this fall.     Kube burst onto the scene for Eastern Hancock last year and really stepped up in the playoffs for them. However, this fall is another story. While everyone knows he's talented, he has to prove it again. I don't have any doubts that he will because we all saw that lightbulb click last year. He's smart, shifty, and has elite speed. I appreciate his consistency and feel like he's a guy who could have upperclassman years that help put him up toward some of the state's top names. I loved what I saw last year and if he builds on it, he'll become a star.     Grant is a dynamic 2-way player who should break onto the scene 1 way or the other this season. He's versatile and has been working hard all offseason. He's explosive, has a good straight-line speed, and accelerates fairly quickly. Where he's best is in short areas and tight spaces. If you get the ball in his hands he can make something out of nothing. Defensively, once he gets his weight up he'll be a much more rounded DB. He's a bit light as of now, but he's got a good head on his shoulders and seems to put himself in the right place at the right time.     It's been a steady ride for Randolph and his development over the past few seasons. When he's been on the field he's been competent and able to wrap up and make simple tackles. Confidence is what's been his biggest factor throughout his career. There are times he's the most confident player out there and there are times he doubts what he sees. When he trusts himself, he's right most of the time. He's fast downhill and can come to balance properly. Playing more physical downfield will also help, but at the same time, DBs have to be worried about breathing too hard on receivers so it's a tough balance.     I love coming across players like Shockley who are not only very productive small-school players but who are also truly great athletes with a future at the next level. Shockley has been a workhorse back for Lebanon and not only held up well but gotten better each year. The strength between the tackles is the most noticeable trait he's got. Being able to run in between the tackles, stay upright, and rip off big runs is incredibly valuable to any offense. Last season he averaged over 6 yards per carry with over 1100 yards and 12 TDs. He's consistent, can step up and block in blitz pick-up, and has a good frame. Shockley will make some collegiate program better when the time comes.

We're looking at 5 versatile players today who are under the radar, yet fairly productive and good athletes and what they can offer a program.