Week 3 Defensive Players of the Week
Week 3 action was just as stellar for defensive players as it was in weeks 1 and 2. In my last article, I highlighted the three best offensive players of week 3 and here were the standout performances from week…
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Continue ReadingWeek 3 action was just as stellar for defensive players as it was in weeks 1 and 2. In my last article, I highlighted the three best offensive players of week 3 and here were the standout performances from week 3 and what made them possible.
Players of the Week
DeAngelo Archuleta, Monte Vista Pirates (LB)(Jr.)(1) – Despite the fact the Pirates lost to the North Fork Miners 21-0 last Friday, it was in spite of the effort by Archuleta. On the night, Archuleta posted an eye-popping stat line of 23 tackles, 2 tackles for a loss, and a sack and might have been the best player on either team that night. When you turn on the tape, you can see Archuleta has excellent athleticism. Great sideline-to-sideline speed and lateral agility that allows him to buzz underneath receivers in the flat and close the space between him and the ball carrier quickly. Explosive athlete that can hit top speed in a few steps and hit another gear when pursuing faster ball carriers. While Archuleta is a little undersized for a college LB prospect, I think he’s somebody that has the potential to play at the collegiate level if he continues to have the production that he did against North Fork, although he’ll more than likely have to move to safety if that’s the case. The junior will definitely be a player to watch over the next two years.
Ryan Patterson, Falcon Falcons (LB)(Sr.)(27) – Patterson might’ve been the best defensive player in the state with the game he had in the 28-19 win over the Brighton Bulldogs. He was an absolute force the entire night, putting up a dominating stat line of 7 tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and a blocked field goal. The Bulldogs had no answer for the senior LB, as the first thing that jumps out to you on film is how much force he brings to the point-of-contact, often driving the ball carrier backwards after the initial contact. Typical stand-up 3-4 LB that rushes the passer. Strong, flexible lower body allows him to maintain a low pad level and drive blockers into the pocket on bull rushes. Lower body strength and flexibility also allow him to maintain good bend when attacking the outside shoulder of the offensive tackle. Not exceptionally fast, but fast enough to convert speed-to-power when attacking opposing blockers. While Patterson isn’t a name you’ll find in many recruiting circles, he’ll be a fun player to follow for his senior season.
Kanon Padilla, University Bulldogs (DB)(Sr.)(11) – The Bulldogs put a 42-6 beat down on the Valley Vikings last Friday night and Padilla might’ve been the biggest reason why. Padilla put up a remarkable 4 tackles and 3 interceptions, with one of the interceptions being returned for a touchdown. The first thing that jumps out about Padilla is the fluidity of his hips. Because his hips are so fluid, he’s able to flip and run with receivers quickly on deeper breaking routes. Big tall, safety type prospect that has enough athleticism and foot speed to keep up with TEs and bigger receivers. Fundamentally sound DB that doesn’t panic when he gets beat because he trusts his technique, allowing him to recover quickly. Because of his size, he doesn’t shy away from contact and will willingly take blockers and ball carriers on head-on. Versatile chess piece of a player that can align at 2-deep, deep-middle, and in the box to support the run. While Padilla is another player that isn’t being bounced around in recruiting discussions, he’s certainly a gifted athlete that will be worth following throughout the season.