Andrew possesses all of the tools to be a star at the varsity level. He possesses the breakaway speed that can turn a good play into an explosive one. That speed mixed with contact balance allows him to blow through weak tackle attempts, and he finds ways to find that extra yard as he’s being brought down. His vision and patience are equally impressive. He allows his blocks to develop and makes one decisive cut into the open field. He’s also a valuable weapon in the passing game, as a reliable option on screens and short passes where he can do damage in the open field. As he continues to add size and strength, he will only be more difficult for defenses to stop.

After watching Andrews game tape I am convinced he will be a future all conference running back. With a low center of gravity and a solid build, Rivera is already a load to tackle, adding in his agility and vision coming out of the backfield makes that task even harder. Defensively he is not afraid to sink his hips and make run stopping tackles. Look for Andrew Rivera Andrew Rivera 5'7" | 165 lbs | RB/ATH Dakota | 2028 State MI to have a breakout season next year in his first full varsity season.

I was actually able to see Andrew’s first half in person.

Playing JV ball, he was one of a few players who looked like they should be on Varsity. A little short, but great muscle and knows how to power through tackles. Straight-up good north-south running for Rivera, and a little bit of power mixed in. Plus, he was a factor on defense and in the return game.

Rivera looks like he has what it takes to be a contributor on Varsity as soon as this season. I love the idea of giving Rivera another year at JV to earn a ton of reps, then fully letting him loose next season.

Andrew Rivera Andrew Rivera 5'7" | 165 lbs | RB/ATH Dakota | 2028 State MI had a phenomenal freshman campaign. Spending time at Slot, KR, and RB, Rivera demonstrated an ability to do damage at all areas of the field.

At running back, I love Rivera’s vision. There’s moments in Rivera’s tape where the play breaks down, and he’s able to find a small opening, change course, and accelerate upfield. On top of that, he sports above-average contact balance, another thing that will serve him well at the Varsity level. As expected, his kick return highlights play off his RB clips. Andrew has a knack for finding an opening and accellerating through that opening. Great potential as a Varsity kick returner.

Lastly, Andrew has a small handful of SLWR highlights. I like how his athletic profile translates to receiver, but it’s too small of a sample size for me to judge his route running or hands.

I’m very high on Rivera. I expect him to show major improvements this season.