Clear Lake raced to a 3-0 start in 2026 thanks in large part to a defense that yielded a total of 22 points in those contests. One of the standouts on that unit was Baack, a senior that entered the season with a chance to raise his recruiting stock. He’s done just that, leading the Lions in total tackles (29.0) and solo stops (20), while rankings second in tackles for loss (5.5). The early-season highlight video contains a middle linebacker that plays fast and gets downhill in a hurry. He does well in disecting the opponent through pre-snap reads and flowing to the ball within the framework of the defense once the play is underway. Baack explodes through the gap before delivering form tackles that drop opponents in their tracks. Simpson, Dordt and Morningside have reportedly offered opportunities. More schools would do well to look his way.

Raif is a linebacker that surely you can tell is starting to pick up steam a little bit more as we enter Mid-July, as he was one of my favorite IA/NE linebackers in attendance at the USF Prospect Camp. You could not miss on this kid from a motor perspective, as he had one of the bigger ones I saw in the LB group when I watched his reps. The 5’11 204 pounder out of Clear Lake also showed off the explosive traits you want to see with his broad jump number which had to be one of the higher numbers amongst the linebacker group at the USF Prospect Camp. It was also evident with his twitch that Raif can change directions and clamp down to the ball quickly when he gets downhill. Only holds one NAIA offer thus far surprisely.

The heart of Clear Lake’s offensive production this season has clearly Jaxson McIntire Jaxson McIntire 6'0" | 190 lbs | ATH Clear Lake | 2027 State IA , who leads the Lions through the air and on the ground. The Two-Way Wonder has been key to his team’s undefeated efforts this season.

Don’t discount Raif Baack Raif Baack 6'0" | 205 lbs | LB Clear Lake | 2027 State IA ‘s contributions on the defensive side of the ball, though. The Lions’ leading tackler far and away with 64, Baack has put together 39 solo tackles and ten tackles-for-loss (TFLs) this season for Clear Lake, adding a fumble recovery for a touchdown. The Lions wouldn’t be where they are without Baack’s defensive efforts.