7-on-7 Defensive Dream Team
In the second installment of the Dream Team series I’ll be focusing on the defensive side of the ball. One thing to keep in mind with this series is that speed at LB is a premium, as is quickness for…
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Continue ReadingIn the second installment of the Dream Team series I’ll be focusing on the defensive side of the ball. One thing to keep in mind with this series is that speed at LB is a premium, as is quickness for the defensive backs. Since there is no run game or pass rush during 7-on-7’s, teams are able to consistently run complex passing concepts down after down. This can be an issue for defenders who train to stop some Minnesota offenses that might pass 12 times a game.
This means I selected players based on projected match ups in ways that may not align in-season. I’m also generally trying to get the best seven players on the field at the same time. So you will see a player or two not playing their traditional position.
Now that that’s out of the way, your Defensive Dream Team…
Linebacker
Aj Scaife (2020) – 6’4″ 205 – Roseville
Looks like a daddy long legs at times from his apex linebacker/nickel/strong safety position. Flashes high-level coverage downfield and his length and feet for his size are definitely assets. Some hip tightness might force him into a box safety/big nickel role at the next level. At strong side linebacker he’d have the plus athleticism and coverage ability to start for a P5 team.
Cody Lindenberg (2020) – 6’2″ 200 – Anoka
Secrets out on this one. The Gopher commit is a smooth and explosive free safety that consistently makes plays. Fluid hips and athleticism to be a down-to-down touchdown threat whenever the ball is in his hands. Good vision and feet to redirect in response to the QB. He’s a good athlete at the linebacker position and will give Team MN a plus coverage asset underneath.
Nickel
Dorian Singer (2021) – Tartan – 5’10” 160
Lean and instinctive playmaker who glides across the field. Covers a lot of ground with his strides. Consistently in good position and has the elevation and ball skills to be a threat down the field. Gifted basketball player who shows solid vision and closing speed from his safety spot. He’s the smallest defender on the team so i’ll stick him at slot to cover the Raja Nelson’s of the world. I expect at least one P5 offer after a strong Junior season.
Safety
Craig McDonald (2020) – SMB – 6’2″ 180
The Iowa State commit is a protoypical defensive back prospect. Plays mostly corner for the state champion Wolfpack and was a big part of that title on both sides of the ball, starting three games at quarterback to begin the year. Easy explosiveness with a long and sufficiently muscular frame. Good body control to maintain his coverage relationships downfield. Tough and fast is a great combo at free safety in the Big 12.
McCabe Dvorak (2021) – St. Louis Park – 6’1″ 200
Size and fluid hips will make him a dynamite linebacker prospect, but for this tournament he is the next best safety we’ll field. Natural playmaker who doesn’t lose much speed changing directions. Not a lot of defensive film compared to receiver film on his Hudl. If he wants it he has the size and man coverage ability to get some D1 offers at linebacker.
Cornerbacks
Steven Arrell (2020) – Osseo – 6’2″ 170
A long and rangy corner with consistently solid technique. Arrell has some fairly interesting traits for such an under-the-radar player. Good feet and length to go along with a toughness that belies his thin frame. If he can display better strength, balance and discipline in coverage he’ll garner some FBS offers.
Trevon Howard (2022) – SMB – 6’0″ 175
Another SMB player who appears made to play the position. The only sophomore on this team, Howard already fields offers from the Gophers and Iowa State. Explosive hip fluidity combined with the length and ball skills of a natural cornerback. And like McDonald we’ll move him around to get the most talent on the field. If everything goes according to plan the Howard hype train is going to blow up in 2019-2020.
Images courtesy of 247 Sports, Hudl.com, CCX Media and KSTC 45