This dude was the definition of grit all game long on Friday night. He was grinding it out in the first half, picking his spots and getting what he could. In the 2nd half, it definitely started to shift. The defense was getting wore out, and Randolph was starting to turn 3 yard gains in the first half into 10 yard gains. The defense was struggling to keep up and with him, and struggling to bring him down on first contact. He just kept pounding and kept his head down, and it started to pay off in a big way. Overall, I came away impressed with his grit and ability to keep grinding out tough runs until he got his chance, and then exploiting the defense when they slipped up.

I’m fairly confident that Garlands will be an MIAA guy this Spring.

I’ve covered him a lot through the years. Garlands is a super, super hard runner. Puts everything he has into every run. A ton of explosive made plays for Dow, and a phenomenal high school football player. However, his testing numbers across the board fall around average and he’s not the twitchiest athlete.

Still, Garlands is someone I’ve been seeing at camps for a very, very long time. It’s really only a matter of time before he gets his due.

Garlands has been working his tail off for a long time now, and I think he’s set up for several D3 offers this Spring.

He’s already pretty polished in several areas. At his best, Garlands is receiving screens and racking up yards after catch. In the open field, he has pretty good contact balance and runs like a freight train. Where he struggles most is basic inside carries. I like his patience, but he doesn’t have the explosiveness to consistently break big runs.

Athleticism: C+

IQ: C-

Strength: C

Receiving: B

Lastly, I want to check in on Garlands. I’ve watched Garlands on several occasions throughout the offseason, and I have a very good understanding of the type of player he is.

Watching his tape against Heritage, I see some noticeable improvements. First off, I know that the receiving game was a point of emphasis for Garlands. His first highlight showcases some of that improved ability as he receives the ball in the flat and takes the quick screen for a first down. At 0:15, you can see Garlands have some solid contact balance. Although he went down, I appreciate the fight. At 0:26, Garlands takes another screen for big yardage.

Just going off this one game, I’m pleased from what I’m seeing from Garlands. A bit more speed and contact balance would send Garland’s game into the stratosphere. For now, he’s 100% earned his ranking.