Pod 1 Top Performers at the Downstate Classic Part 2
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Pod 1 was absolutely loaded at the downstate classic this past weekend. These players put on a show, read about what prospects dominated in a group full of the states best players. Kaeden West NY #235 QB #19 HEIGHT 6'1"…
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Continue ReadingPod 1 was absolutely loaded at the downstate classic this past weekend. These players put on a show, read about what prospects dominated in a group full of the states best players.
It’s becoming evident that West is making a name for himself this summer. He was neck and neck with Brayden Stahl Brayden Stahl 6’0″ | 180 lbs | QB Smithtown West | 2024 State NY as the top QB at the event. I really loved the footwork West had during his reps. He was poised and strung together a solid amount of completions due to superior ball placement. West showcased a nice touch on his throws and also had some great velocity on his passes.
Highlights
One of the most entertaining players at the entire event. Despite being listed at 5 foot 7 Judah Wright Judah Wright 5’7″ | 160 lbs | WR Erasmus Hall | 2024 State NY proved that he is one of the most explosive players in New York. His change of direction and how he set up his routes was terrific. When he ran a slant he’d leave his defender in the dust. Wright really exploded out of his cuts and he’s gonna be an issue whether he’s a slot receiver or however they use him at Erasmus Hall.
Highlights
He wasn’t the biggest or the strongest cornerback in the pod, but mechanically he made an argument as easily one of the best. The mentality Locke brought was incredible, and even after losing a rep he easily bounced back and made the next play. Because of all the reps he took, Locke displayed that he has the ability to go against all types of receivers. He matched up well against quick and speedy receivers and also stopped the bigger receivers in the pod. Whichever high school Locke plays for will be getting a fierce competitor and a great athlete.
Highlights
The gunslinger from Holy Trinity put himself in the conversation for the top QB. His timing and anticipation was some of the best I saw during pod 1. Ranione is always very cool and collective in the pocket and we saw a lot of that on Saturday. His accuracy on deep balls and on shorter routes was impressive, his improvement all offseason has been great, look out for him during the fall.
One of the biggest surprises of the day. Michael Conza Michael Conza 5’10” | 165 lbs | WR St. John The Baptist | 2024 State NY showed that he belonged in the conversation as one of the top receivers at this event. He proved that his route running ability is elite. He showed off a ton of different routes and most of them resulted in separation and confusing his defensive back. In the heat and all those reps, Conza got stronger as the event went on and started becoming more consistent with catching passes.
Highlights
Patience and explosiveness led Battle to some amazing reps at the downstate classic. I loved his first step in the routes he ran as he was able to lose some of those linebackers. He was one of the stronger players at the event and his combination of strength and speed is exciting. On some of his deeper routes, Battle proved that he can accelerate past defenders without an issue.
Highlights
Smooth and accurate were some of the best ways to describe Newman’s performance on Saturday. He ripped the ball quickly to his receivers and for the most part his timing was solid. He had one of the top reps out of any quarterback when he slinged one deep right into his receivers hands. He showed why he’ll be one of Rochester’s top quarterbacks this season.
The speedster from Trinity has not only got faster but he definitely made a leap in his strength. Simpson set up his routes well baiting his cornerback and he was crisp making hard cuts and losing his defenders. In his sophomore season I saw a lot of quick routes and screen passes for Simpson but on Saturday he showed that he will be a big time deep threat this fall. Not only did his speed stick out, he had some impressive jump balls where he adjusted his body to make a play.