Rock’s Playmakers of the Week: Coconino/Prescott (Defense)
With an interesting matchup between two 4A Grand Canyon Region schools, Coconino came to Prescott and dominated a young Prescott team 41-0. However, both teams had some prospects that definitely opened some eyes. These Northern Arizona kids have to be…
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Continue ReadingWith an interesting matchup between two 4A Grand Canyon Region schools, Coconino came to Prescott and dominated a young Prescott team 41-0. However, both teams had some prospects that definitely opened some eyes. These Northern Arizona kids have to be some of the toughest in the state. They can deliver and take big hits all night, and not even look phased. Here are 5 defensive standouts from the game:
Defensive MVP: Jacob Begay, DB, Coconino (2021)
Begay was flying around the field making plays all night. He recovered a Prescott fumble and took it 94 yards to the house to put a dagger in the Prescott offense. He flew around the field and involved himself on gang tackles. He showed quick instincts and solid technique. He was also able to creep up and provide good run support and lay hard hits on multiple Prescott ball carriers. Begay was a solid performer on Friday, and is definitely a sleeper throughout the season.
Nate Wright, ATH., Prescott (2021)
Despite the loss, Wright was flying around the field. He totaled 11 tackles, 2 hurries, and blocked 3 field goals. Wright has excellent instincts and reaction, and was able to make quick tackles moving lateral to prevent big plays. Wright will go head up with anyone in the state as he shows zero fear or hesitation, and was able to lay big hits throughout the night. He is very athletic as he can be used anywhere on the field, and was extremely fast off the edges during special teams.
Matias Ortiz Matias Ortiz 6'1" | 220 lbs | LB Coconino | 2022 State AZ , DE, Coconino (2022)
Ortiz was a monster by constantly busting through Prescott’s o-line to blowup plays. He was consistently in the backfield all night. He has a long reach and was able to extend his body to swallow up ball carriers at the line of scrimmage. He has a very quick get off and racked up some TFL’s on Friday night. He has good speed on the edge, and utilizes his speed with his strength very well. He is going to be a key Junior to keep your eye on in 4A.
Andy Ruiz Andy Ruiz 6'1" | 200 lbs | DB Coconino | 2022 State AZ , DB, Coconino (2022)
Ruiz was manhandling the Prescott receivers all night. His physicality and ability to press receivers was crucial. He has a strong, muscular, athletic build at 6’1, 190lbs. while playing corner. He would literally throw Prescott receivers around when they attempted to block him. His strength was unmatched and he prevented Prescott receivers from making any impact. He was able to disguise coverages well as he would start in press, and drop to a cover 3.
Luke McCauslin, LB, Prescott (2021)
McCauslin showed a very high football IQ with excellent play recognition. He played hurt all game after limping around in the 1st quarter, but toughed it out to make plays. He showed great quickness to get around the tackle and make plays behind the line of scrimmage that were designed Coconino iso’s. He recorded a QB hurry and forced Seery to throw a red zone interception. He did a phenomenal job of shedding blocks, and should be a legit prospect as an edge rusher.