Rock’s Playmakers of the Week: Pinnacle/Chandler (Defense)
The Chandler defensive line is the best I have ever seen in Arizona. Against a loaded offense, they completely shut down every weapon of Pinnacle’s to bully their way to a 64-0 shutout. Here are some defensive standouts that were…
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Continue ReadingThe Chandler defensive line is the best I have ever seen in Arizona. Against a loaded offense, they completely shut down every weapon of Pinnacle’s to bully their way to a 64-0 shutout. Here are some defensive standouts that were key in making the shutout happen:
Defensive MVP: Brandon Buckner Brandon Buckner 6'1" | 235 lbs | LB Chandler | 2021 State AZ , DE, Chandler (2021)
Buckner played a great, physical game on Friday that stuffed the Pinnacle offense all night. He was in Dampier’s face all night and didn’t let up. The Oregon commit was consistently in the Pinnacle backfield blowing up plays and forcing Dampier to scramble for his life. Buckner has a mean pass rushing ability that was a nightmare for Pinnacle. He is possibly the best defensive player in he state. He is strong, athletic, and very quick, making him a massive threat. One thing that stood out to me was his speed and agility. He is very quick laterally in which he was able to stop everything on the edges including screens. Buckner is a baller for Chandler, and he’s a major key on why their #7 in the nation.
Isaiah Johnson, DT, Chandler (2022)
Johnson was a bully on the D-line by constantly powering his way through the Pinnacle O-line. Along with Buckner, Johnson was also a nightmare for Pinnacle by frequently chasing around Devon Dampier Devon Dampier 6'0" | 190 lbs | QB Saguaro | 2023 State AZ . He plugged the gaps so well that it completely shut down Pinnacles run game early. Johnsnon involved himself on numerous tackles and was a clear threat. He disrupted pass attempts so quick by forcing Dampier out of the pocket almost immediately. Johnson should continue to have a big year.
Kyler Orr Kyler Orr 6'2" | 225 lbs | LB Chandler | 2021 State AZ , LB, Chandler (2021)
Orr was all over the place for Chandler. He flew to the ball very well and showed very good pursuit on Pinnacle’s jet pass attempts and other plays on the edge. Orr showed good instincts and was effective against Pinnacle’s speedy offense. He involved himself on every gang tackle and racked up some solo tackles as well. Orr is an athletic, high football IQ player that flows to the ball very well. The Air Force commit added another dimension to the already lethal Chandler defense.
Jeremiah Tyler Jeremiah Tyler 6'1" | 225 lbs | LB Chandler | 2021 State AZ , DL, Chandler (2021)
Tyler was another force on the Chandler D-line. He recorded a TFL on a Pinnacle sweep in which he showed impressive quickness and play recognition. Tyler is a strong, athletic kid that was able to utilize his speed against slower lineman and his power against others. Tyler was a big mistmatch for Pinnacle, along with the rest of the Chandler defense. Tyler attacks the ball well and also forced Dampier into a few hurries.
Hank Pepper, LB, Chandler (2021)
Pepper involved himself on numerous plays. He plays with a high motor and and is a very athletic kid. The San Diego State commit showed good strength and bullied the Pinnacle O-line. He also showed great instincts and pursuit to the ball. He is also a very smart football player and has a very high ceiling this season. Pepper disrupted Pinnacle’s scheme throughout the night and was a major contributor to the 64-0 blowout.