The Northern Highlands Highlanders were a team that had question marks heading into the season. State finalists in 2021, they were also breaking in a new head coach. How would things go? Well, they repeated as state finalists again, losing a one score game to Millville in the Group IV final. One lineman, who happens to be very athletic, had much to do with maintaining the Highlander’s way of excellence: Blake Taranto Blake Taranto 5'11" | 205 lbs | OL Northern Highlands | 2024 NJ . Taranto also played DE and specials for Northern Highlands. The 5’11”, 165 pounder was credited with 31 tackles, 2 TFL, and 1 sack.

The first thing I noticed about Taranto was that he was a gunner on kick off. This speaks to his athleticism, versatility, effort, conditioning, and selflessness to his team. As such, he flew to the ball an leveled the returner. As a guard, Taranto is bought in, trusting his slide protection and that his teammates will be in position to do their job. He is in sync with his lineman as well. He sells and times his screens extremely well. Discipline is also a part of Taranto’s game, as he does not get downfield when executing RPOs. Finally, he has quick feet to get his head on the outside of defenders on reach plays. An area I would coach Taranto up on is to turn his pass protection into a drive block should he get beat.

Taranto is back for one more run at Northern Highland’s elusive Group IV state championship. Perhaps the third time is the charm.

Hudl