7A Football: Each Region 8 Team’s Top Returning Player

In the final installment of "Region Returners" series, we wanted to take some time to walk through one of the most competitive, and strongest regions in the entire state- Region 8. The teams within Region 8 have combined for plenty of playoff, and championship success over the years, naturally making them some of the more talked about teams in the state. Below, when you take some time to check out some of these team’s top returners, you will certainly understand why, and will get a glimpse into the reasons in which fans are always so excited about their team’s potential. Buford- [player_tooltip player_id="137438" first="KJ" last="Bolden"] (WR) Bolden is not only the top returning player for Buford, but he will be one of the top returning receivers in the entire country. The 4 star has offers from all of the major power 5 schools in the country, and his burst, and big play ability allows him to finish plays well, and make plays out of seemingly nowhere. Bolden is also very efficient on defense, especially due to his burst and explosive ability out of his breaks. One thing we like about Bolden is the fact that he is very consistent in his movements, as his fluid movement allows him to play with good feet, and twitch, which can also be seen in his route running, and out of his breaks. Central Gwinnett- Carmello Jeffrey (RB) While Jeffrey may be less known to a majority of our readers, he does happen to be the best returning player for Central Gwinnett, and will likely be a key part of their success in 2022. Jeffrey runs with a good burst, and long stride, which helps him to gain plenty of yards with his slashing running style. The power behind Jeffrey’s stride and explosive legs also helps him to power through would be tacklers, helping him to gain a few extra yards than expected at times. Due to this, we feel he will be big in Central Gwinnett’s game plans next year, making him one of their top returners, and leaders all around. Collins Hill- [player_tooltip player_id="220719" first="Ethan" last="Davis"] (WR) [player_tooltip player_id="220719" first="Ethan" last="Davis"]’ big bodied frame is one of the first things that pops off of the screen. When playing the WR position, this is a constant advantage of his, as he is able to box out defenders, win contested situations, and catch the ball from various angles. Because he has such a great catch radius, Davis is able to make plays that most receivers are unable to. What makes him even more impressive, is that after this, he also does a good job of getting yards after the catch. When running routes, Davis also does a good job of stacking defenders, and allowing his feet to create separation, regardless of the route he runs. Ultimately, due to this big play ability, even when it comes to the little things, we think he will be one of the leading forces for his team next year with any success that they may have. Dacula- Jayden Bethea (LB) When watching Bethea play, it should not be a shocker that he is one of the best defensive prospects in his region. At the LB position, he utilizes his size, and length to his advantage, continuously putting him in place to make big tackles. Bethea plays with a strong upper body, and he does a great job of transitioning his power on contact. His speed and fluidity help him in pursuit as well, which often times results in great tackles. He also plays with great hands, and leverage as well, which helps him to make plays, while limiting the ability of opposing ball carriers after initial contact. Discovery- Jacob Davis (RB) When watching Davis play, he can appear to be a bit slow, but the power, and high knee drive that he plays with is huge for his team. He runs with very strong legs, and a burst, allowing him to run through contact, and make big plays on the ground, which often times results in points. Davis also finishes plays well, despite the fact that this is often times through contact, forcing him to get the hard yards. Next season, look for Discovery to continue to put their game plan on his shoulders, meaning he will be one of their top players throughout the duration of the season. Mill Creek- [player_tooltip player_id="34015" first="Caleb" last="Downs"] (DB) [player_tooltip player_id="34015" first="Caleb" last="Downs"] is without a doubt one of the most fun prospects to watch in the entire state due to his dynamic playmaking ability on the defensive side of the ball. There isn’t a part of playing safety that Downs does not do well at. He moves extremely well, plays with a good bend, and is explosive out of his breaks. He also plays with clean feet, and has no problem tackling with good leverage, and power. He does a great job of wrapping up on contract, rolling his hips, and playing with good instincts. This results in plays on the ball, tackles in the backfield, and plays in pursuit. Next season, look for him to further solidify his 5 star status, and prove why he is one of the best players in the country. Mountain View- Mason Kidd (QB) Even though Kidd is a tad less known compared to other players on this list, we are very impressed with his ability to throw the football with velocity, and power. These kind of throws help slice through a defense, which is key in the division that he plays in. Kidd also throws with good accuracy, and has a decent release as well. While he can be a bit slow at times, we also like the way he sees the field, and is able to get the ball out in a timely manner. If he can continue to develop in this way next season, we believe he will take his team to another level, even adding to their win column.