Spring Week Two: MPSSAA Games and Players to Watch
Maryland public schools are back at it for week two. Week one gave teams an opportunity for their first live-action in over a year. Social media was abuzz with highlights and game recaps from all over Maryland. Just like last…
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Continue ReadingMaryland public schools are back at it for week two. Week one gave teams an opportunity for their first live-action in over a year. Social media was abuzz with highlights and game recaps from all over Maryland. Just like last week, week two offers great matchups all across the state. This week sees rematches from the 2019 season, and teams that made deep playoff runs looking to build momentum for the Fall 2021 season. Here are three of those games, with some players to keep your eyes on!
Woodlawn vs Milford Mill (March 12)
In 2019, Milford Mill reached the 2A State Quarterfinals. They had a great season and are bringing a lot of talent into this restart. On the other side, Woodlawn had an up-and-down 2019 but is coming into this restart with some underrated players. This game gives both teams a chance to see where they stand.
Every player has an opportunity to build off of week one, and continue to show their development in this matchup.
Player Spotlight
Linwood Harris, RB/LB, Milford Mill, 2022: Linwood had a big sophomore year for Milford Mill’s JV team, and this should see him get an opportunity to impress at the varsity level. In 2019, he had over 1,000yds with 18 TD’s. This makes him a name to watch during this restart. His main tool is his speed. He consistently negated angles that secondary players had on him. He also showed an ability to pull away from defenders. This restart will show if the JV season production will translate to success at the varsity level.
Marcus Harris Jr., DE, Woodlawn, 2022: Marcus was dominant for Woodlawn, in only five games at the varsity level. In 2019, Marcus contributed 30 TKL’s (7.5 TFL), 5.5 Sacks, 1 Fumble Recovery, and 1 blocked punt. The stat line alone makes him an intriguing player to watch, but it is the flashes he showed with his potential that cements that intrigue. He has great speed coming off the edge and shows good anticipation of the snap. This allows him to chase down plays when he is unblocked. He also plays multiple special teams. This game will be the start of his development showcase.
Great Mills vs Huntingtown (March 12)
These two teams faced off in 2019 with Huntingtown winning 47-6. This is a little look at how each team’s 2019 season finished. Huntingtown reached the 3A State Semi-finals, while Great Mills struggled to find consistency. The great thing with a new season is a new opportunity to build their respective football teams.
Each team has players that will be key to their success now and in the future. Here are two names to watch this weekend.
Player Spotlight
Bryce LaFollette, P/K, Huntingtown, 2022: Bryce is currently the #3 (5-Star) ranked punter by Kohl’s Kicking. It is no surprise when you watch his 2019 highlights. He consistently changes the field position battle in the favor of Huntingtown. And, he can do it in a variety of ways. He gets great distance, and hang-time, due to his consistent mechanics. Any chance to see a punter of his quality must be taken.
Devin Winder, OL/DL, Great Mills, 2022: At 6’4″ 255, Devin has great size. What stands out is he has great quickness to pair with that size. His first game showed that this is an aspect of his game that he worked on during this extended break. He flashes a great first step when attacking gaps. This made him difficult to down-block and allowed him to cause consistent havoc in the opponent’s backfield. He showed he has some pass rush moves in his bag. Devin should have a big impact on Great Mills defense, starting this weekend.
Linganore vs Oakdale (March 12)
Both teams reached their respective playoffs in 2019. Linganore made it to the 3A State Finals, while Oakdale reached the first round of the 2A playoffs. Both teams are coming into this restart looking to find playmakers that will contribute in the Fall.
Here are two players that should stand out on Friday.
Player Spotlight
Timothy Conner, QB, Linganore, 2022: Conner is a dual-threat QB that had a very good sophomore year for the state finalists. He can make all of the throws accurately. Has very good arm strength when making outside of the numbers throws. When he can set his feet he can get the ball downfield with ease. His progression from 2019 to now will be something to watch because, if he continues to develop, he will be a name to watch this fall.
Joe Pippen, QB, Oakdale, 2022: Pippen was a very good QB for Oakdale in 2019, and will look to build on his success during this restart. He has great size at 6’3″. Has a good arm and can make every throw. He has very good mobility and can take off and run if he needs. He showed an ability to avoid pass rushers and still get good velocity on his throws. This game will be a great test to see where his development is going into next fall.