Meridian
Cedrick Blanks is probably the 'Cats top offering for the 2008 signing class. Blanks can line up in various positions to keep the defense guessing and he has the athleticism to play all of them well. He is a hard nosed runner, but perhaps his best attribute is his ability to catch the ball down the field and create mismatches in the secondary.
Kevin Roberts likes to come up and make the big hit from his place in the secondary. Roberts does a nice job coverage as well as in run support. Some time in the weight room certainly would help his cause.
Khari Usher will likely play corner at the next level and he could find some playing time in the return game. Usher has very good change of direction and he sees the field well. He has big play potential, but he does not get himself out of position by gambling on poor decisions.
Tyler Russell probably has the highest ceiling of any of the prospects currently on the Meridian High roster. Russell has the size college recruiters love in a college quarterback. Tyler is a traditional drop back, pocket passer with a big arm. He does not appear to have any glaring weaknesses. Now that he is done growing up, it will be interesting to see how much filling out Tyler does in the next several months. He has the frame to carry a lot more weight in his upper body.
Russell is a very, very good player who should have several options come signing day 2009.
Jim Hill
Jordan Harper may have demonstrated the most heart of any player on the field. The junior running back displayed excellent balance and made most of his yards after first contact. Despite being on the business end of a blow-out, Harper played hard every snap until the final whistle sounded.
Deion Watkins is another interesting prospect that may earn some looks for the class of 2009. Watkins has good size, but needs to be given a key to the weight room. He has a lot of raw potential as a wide receiver and his size is a challenge for defenders. Deion is one to watch for next year.