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Defensive end Oluwole Betiku, No. 6 player in Class of 2016, commits to USC

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Oluwole Betiku, the No. 1-ranked recruit from California in the Class of 2016, gave a verbal commitment to Southern California on Christmas Night.

Betiku, from Junipero Serra in Gardena, Calif., is ranked as the No. 1 weakside defensive end in the class and the No. 6 player overall according to the 247 Sports Composite rankings, despite having only played two years of football.

Betiku, a former UCLA commit, chose the Trojans over Florida State, Notre Dame and Texas A&M, despite the fact that USC has not hired a defensive coordinator.

He came to the United States from Nigeria in the fall of 2013 and has not seen his parents or siblings since. He has previously referred to former NFL player LaVar Arrington, who has served as a mentor, as his American dad, although Julia Boyer is serving as his current guardian.

Betiku is 6-3 1/2 and 240 pounds yet he amazed by running 4.57 seconds in the 40-yard dash at The Opening in Oregon in July.

The five-star commit plans to enroll in January at USC — among a group of seven Southern Cal early enrollees, including Serra teammate C.J. Pollard — but first will head to Florida next week to take part in the Under Armour All-America Game.

RELATED: Betiku accepted Under Armour All-American jersey


Four-star wide receiver Stephen Sullivan picks LSU

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Stephen Sullivan (Photo: 247Sports)

Stephen Sullivan (Photo: 247Sports)

Four-star wide receiver Stephen Sullivan announced his commitment to LSU during a ceremony at high school, Donaldsonville High in Louisiana.

Sullivan thanked his family, teammates and coaches pulled out a Tigers hat from a wrapped box with a bow and then donned a purple LSU warm-up jacket.

The 6-5, 230-pound Sullivan, ranked as the No. 17 wide receiver and No. 101 player overall in the 247Sports Composite rankings, had been down to TCU, LSU and Mississippi State. Scout.com has Sullivan ranked as the No. 7 wide receiver in the nation and No. 51 overall.

Sullivan is an early enrollee so he needed to make a decision.

Sullivan initially committed to LSU in February 2014 but then decommitted last spring. During a five-week stretch this season, Sullivan visited Mississippi State on Nov. 14, TCU on Nov. 27 and LSU on Dec. 11.

Sullivan is an in-state recruit, but his parents now live in Fort Worth, Texas, so keeping him away from TCU, which many observers thought was the new frontrunner, is a substantial get for LSU coach Les Miles and offensive coordinator Cam Cameron.

Updating the status of the top uncommitted football recruits

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As players are set to begin preparations for the All-America games, where some top players are planning to make their college commitments, USA TODAY High School Sports is taking a look at the status of the uncommitted players among the top 25 in the 247Sports Composite rankings. Many of these players will wait until National Signing Day in February to announce but they will be peppered with questions in the coming weeks about where they stand.

RELATED: ALL-USA Offense

RELATED: ALL-USA Defense

December 17, 2015 -- Paramus, NJ, U.S.A -- Rashan Gary , defensive lineman at Paramus Catholic is one of our ALL-USA TODAY players of the year candidate. -- Photo by Adam Hunger USA TODAY Sports Images, Gannett ORG XMIT: US 134214 Rashan Gary 12/10/2015 [Via MerlinFTP Drop]

December 17, 2015 — Paramus, NJ, U.S.A — Rashan Gary , defensive lineman at Paramus Catholic is one of our ALL-USA TODAY players of the year candidate. — Photo by Adam Hunger USA TODAY Sports Images, Gannett ORG XMIT: US 134214 Rashan Gary 12/10/2015 [Via MerlinFTP Drop]

1. Rashan Gary, DT, Paramus Catholic (Paramus, N.J.): The American Family Insurance ALL-USA Defensive Player of the Year, Gary initially had expressed interest in announcing his commitment at the Under Armour All-American Game, but that now is not expected. Gary is scheduled to take an official visit to USC on Jan. 15. He has already officially visited Michigan, Ole Miss and Auburn along with a slew of unofficial visits. Ohio State has not received an official visit, but coach Urban Meyer and a number of assistants visited Gary in December.

8. Derrick Brown, DT, Lanier (Buford, Ga.): Brown has already made official visits to Alabama and Mississippi State and has his final three lined up for the three weekends immediately preceding National Signing Day: Georgia, Auburn and Tennessee. Brown, a finalist for U.S. Army Player of the Year, has long been viewed as remaining in-state and heading to the Bulldogs. He told USA TODAY High School Sports recently that “Coach (Kirby) Smart doesn’t really affect the way I view the school that much.”

9. Issac Nauta, TE, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.): Nauta tweeted Dec. 20 that his top three in alphabetical order were Alabama, Georgia and Michigan. A former Florida State commit, Nauta is expected to make his announcement during the Jan. 9 Army Bowl.

12. Ben Davis, ILB, Gordo (Ala.): Most expected Davis to remain in-state and attend Alabama and the Crimson Tide will get the last shot at him with his official visited scheduled for the final weekend before National Signing Day. He also has January official visits scheduled for Auburn and Notre Dame. He also visited Georgia and LSU, although the Georgia visit was before the coaching change. He said in early December that Georgia was his leader and he has a close relationship with Kirby Smart from when the then-Alabama defensive coordinator was recruiting him for the Tide.

Lyndell “Mack” Wilson (Photo: Montgomery Advertiser)

Lyndell “Mack” Wilson
(Photo: Montgomery Advertiser)

13. Lyndell Wilson, OLB, Carver (Montgomery, Ala.): Wilson announced his top three on Christmas Day in order: Florida, Alabama and Georgia. Those schools will get official visits in inverse order to signing day with Florida on Jan. 29, Alabama on Jan. 22 and Georgia on Jan. 15. Wilson initially planned to announce in early December but postponed when it appeared Kirby Smart was leaving Alabama for Georgia.

15. Brandon Jones, S, Nacogdoches (Texas): Jones is expected to remain in-state at Texas A&M, but still has two visits scheduled before signing day: Auburn and Texas. He has visited A&M and Ole Miss and has taken unofficial visits in the last month to TCU and Baylor.

Mique Juarez celebrates receiving his U.S. Army All-American Bowl jersey alongside Sergeant First Class Scott, Sergeant Silva, Sergeant First Class Trevino and Sergeant First Class Jones at his official presentation (Photo: Army All-American Bowl)

Mique Juarez celebrates receiving his U.S. Army All-American Bowl jersey alongside Sergeant First Class Scott, Sergeant Silva, Sergeant First Class Trevino and Sergeant First Class Jones at his official presentation (Photo: Army All-American Bowl)

16. Mique Juarez, OLB, North (Torrance, Calif.): Juarez decommitted from USC in the aftermath of Steve Sarkisian’s departure and could remain in Southern California at UCLA. Since decomitting, he has visited Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss and Washington.

21. Mecole Hardman Jr., ATH, Elbert County (Elberton, Ga.): Hardman was among the contingent of players who took an unofficial visit to Georgia in mid-December along with Jacob Eason and Ben Cleveland. Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee are in the mix, but he has also visited Michigan and has an official visit scheduled to TCU in late January.

22. Rashad Lawrence, DT, Neville (Monroe, La.): He has taken official visits to UCLA and Ohio State and had consistent contact with LSU and interest from Alabama. Lawrence told NOLA.com after his team repeated as 4A state champions that he was done with visits and hoped to make a decision in January. He said he did not want to wait until signing day. His relationship with LSU defensive line coach Ed Orgeron could help keep him in his home-state.

Clovis West (Fresno, Calif.) linebacker Caleb Kelly won the high school Butkus Award (Photo: Butkus Award)

Clovis West (Fresno, Calif.) linebacker Caleb Kelly won the high school Butkus Award (Photo: Butkus Award)

23. Caleb Kelly, OLB, Clovis West (Fresno, Calif.): The Butkus Award winner as the nation’s top linebacker, he has taken visits to Oklahoma, Notre Dame, Michigan and Oregon. Multiple reports have said Kelly is a lock for the Sooners, but he has left one visit open should he want to add another school and coaches will be making in-home visits in January.

24. Demetris Robinson, ATH, Savannah Christian (Savannah, Ga.): He decommitted from Alabama, but the Crimson Tide remain in the mix as he was among the prospects that Nick Saban visited during the December period and also took an unofficial visit to the school following his decommitment. He has taken official visits to Cal and Notre Dame and unofficially visited Georgia in late November before the coaching change.

Jameis Winston, Jadeveon Clowney lead Under Armour All-America All-Time Team

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The Under Armour All-America Game announced its All-Time Team on Sunday, led by the players selected No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft the last two years.

Quarterback Jameis Winston from Heuytown, Ala., played in the 2012 game before heading to Florida State and being chosen with the top pick in the 2015 draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.  Jadeveon Clowney from South Pointe High in South Carolina played in the 2011 Under Armour game before going to South Carolina and then being chosen No. 1 by the Houston Texans in the 2014 draft.

Here is the complete team:

OFFENSE

QB: Jameis Winston (2012)

RB: Leonard Fournette (2014), Trent Richardson (2009)

WR: Julio Jones (2008), AJ Green (2008), Amari Cooper (2012)

TE: Dwayne Allen (2008)

OT: Luke Joeckel (2010), Taylor Lewan (2009)

G: Zack Martin (2009), Jack Mewhort (2009)

C: Ben Jones (2008)

DEFENSE

DL: Jadeveon Clowney (2011), Leonard Williams (2012), Dante Fowler Jr. (2012), Robert Nkemdiche (2012)

LB: Manti Te’o (2009), Courtnet Upshaw (2008), Ryan Shazier (2011)

CB: Stephon Gilmore (2009), Ronald Darby (2012)

S: Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (2011), Landon Collins (2009)

SPECIAL TEAMS

K: Dustin Hopkins (2009)

 

VIDEO: Watch No. 14 Garfield's Jashaun Agosto's bounce pass to himself for dunk

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Garfield (Seattle) rolled to a 105-59 victory against David Douglas (Portland, Ore.)  in the first round of the Les Schwab Invitational on Sunday night in Oregon.

Ranked No. 14 in the Super 25 and coming off a 27-2 season, Garfield has plenty of athletic players and the fourth quarter Sunday turned into a flurry of dunks.

This might be the best one, courtesy of Jashaun Agosto, who bounced it to himself and then threw it down.

Your guide to the high school football All-American games

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Under Armour All-America Game

When: Jan. 2, Noon ET

Where: Citrus Bowl, Orlando

National TV: ESPN2

Need to know: This is the ninth annual game and 102 players have been selected. Herm Edwards will coach Team Highlight and Steve Mariucci will coach Team Armour. NFL Pro Bowl receivers Julio Jones and A.J. Green were among the players in the inaugural game. Jameis Winston (2012) and Jadeveon Clowney (2011) are No. 1 overall draft picks to have played in the game.

Who to watch: Ten of the top 12 players in the ESPN 300 have been selected for the game, led by No. 1 overall player Rashan Gary, Ole Miss commit offensive tackle Greg Little (No. 2), Houston defensive tackle commit Ed Oliver (No. 4) and offensive tackle Willie Allen (No. 5).

RELATED: Meet the Under Armour All-Americans

No. 3 overall player Nick Bosa, a defensive lineman from St. Thomas Aquinas (Fla.) was selected but is injured. Florida State commit Malik Henry and Maryland commit Dwayne Haskins Jr. are the highest-rated quarterbacks in the game. Top-ranked running back Kareem Walker, who committed to Michigan, and No. 1 wide receiver Kyle Davis, who is committed to Auburn, also have been selected.

Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl

When: Jan. 3, 9 p.m. ET

Where: StubHub Center, Carson, Calif.

National TV: Fox Sports 1

Need to know: Sponsored by the United States Marine Corps, the event is in its fifth year. Players are selected based on “their performances on the field as well as their commitment to leadership, maintaining a high level of character, and serving their team and community with honor, courage and commitment,” according to organizers. Kevin Crosby of Camberg-Erhardt High in Bamberg, S.C., and Steve Belles of Hamilton High in Chandler, Ariz., are the coaches.

Who to watch: Perhaps the biggest names are the quarterbacks: Michigan State commit Messiah deWeaver, who led Wayne (Huber Heights, Ohio) to a state final, and Oklahoma commit Austin Kendall, from Cuthbertson in Waxhaw, N.C. The game features a number of highly coveted wide receivers, including Clemson commit Tavares “T.J.” Chase, Southern Cal commit Josh Imatorbhebhe and Michigan commit Brad Hawkins. If you are a Penn State fan, the game features six Nittany Lions commits: cornerback Zechariah McPhearson, guard Will Fries, outside linebackers Joel Dublanko and Cameron Brown and tight end Danny Dalton. Two Notre Dame commits – defensive end Khalid Kareem and inside linebacker Jamir Jones – are all taking part.

U.S. Army All-American Game

When: Jan. 9, 1 p.m. ET

Where: Alamodome, San Antonio

National TV: NBC

Need to know: This is the 17th edition of the Army Bowl and five alums were drafted in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. Odell Beckham Jr., Jamaal Charles and Heisman Trophy winner Derrick Henry all played in past games.

Who to watch: It’s hard not to start with the quarterbacks in this game: For the West, American Family Insurance ALL-USA Offensive Player of the Year and Gatorade National Player of the Year Jacob Eason, Florida commit Feleipe Franks and Louisville commit Jawon Pass. For the West, it’s Ole Miss commit Shea Patterson, USC commit K.J. Costello and Michigan commit Brandon Peters.

RELATED: Meet the Army All-Americans

They will be pursued by some of the nation’s top pass rushers, including Derrick Brown, Dexter Lawrence, Julian Rochester and Jeffery Simmons for the East; and Raekwon Davis, Xavier Kelly, Josh King and Justin Madubuike for the West.

Polynesian All-American Bowl

When: Jan. 9, 4 p.m. ET

Where: Oceanside High School, Oceanside, Calif.

National TV: None

Need to know: The event is put on by the AIGA Foundation, which was founded 18 years ago. The word aiga means “family” in the Samoan language and stands for “All Islanders Getting Along” as an acronym. The organization says the goal is to bring all Polynesians and Pacific Islanders together to celebrate unity and excellence. The game is played at the alma mater of Hall of Fame linebacker Junior Seau and many former players of Polynesian and Pacific Island descent serve as coaches and speakers.

Who to watch: Among the invited players is St. Augustine (San Diego) middle linebacker Quinn Seau, Junior’s nephew. De La Salle (Concord, Calif.) teammates Devin Asiasi and Boss Tagaloa are among the most well-known players expected. Michael Eletise, who is playing in the Under Armour All-America Game, also has been selected. Because the game is played the same day as the Army Bowl, some invited players are not expected to make the trip such as linebacker Mique Juarez and wide receivers Simi Fehoko and Dylan Crawford.

Blue-Grey All-American Games

When: Jan. 9 and Jan. 16

Where: Raymond James Stadium in Tampa on Jan. 9; Everbank Field in Jacksonville on Jan. 16.

National TV: Games will be live streamed on ImpactFootballNetwork.com.

Need to know: Blue-Grey plays a series of three games involving different rosters of players. The East beat the West, 21-14, on Dec. 20 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas. Zach Farrar caught the eventual game-winning touchdown on a 57-yard pass from Paten Snell early in the fourth quarter. In Tampa, the North will face the South; in Jacksonville, the Blue will face the Grey. The Jacksonville game was added this year. Players are selected via a process through Blue-Grey camps and combines and are evaluated by former NFL players who also serve as coaches in the game.

Who to watch: In Tampa, Stanford defensive line commit Bo Peek, all-purpose back Tyrek Tisdale, West Virginia defensive line commit Reese Donahue, Oregon State running back commit Artavis Pierce are among the names to notice. In Jacksonville, Florida wide receiver commit Rick Wells, Miami linebacker commit Michael Pickney, Georgia Tech offensive lineman commit Jordan Johnson, Auburn defensive line commit Daquan Newkirk and quarterback Augie DeBiase, who is being pursued by Virginia Tech, are among the expected standouts.

Check out the uniforms and cleats for the Under Armour All-America Game

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Given that it’s the Under Armour All-America Game, the uniforms, cleats and gear that the players will wear for the game and will get during the week of practice are always part of the fun.

Here are photos of the uniforms and some of the cleats courtesy of the game’s Twitter feed.

RELATED: Winston, Clowney lead Under Armour All-America Game All-Time Team

Recovery continues for injured Tenn. football player Baylor Bramble

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Baylor Bramble (Photo: Daily News Journal )

Baylor Bramble (Photo: Daily News Journal )

The recovery of injured Tennessee high school football player Baylor Bramble is continuing at the Shepherd Center in Atlanta and he has made his greatest strides since being injured Oct. 23.

Bramble sustained a head trauma during Siegel’s 44-14 win over Warren County on Oct. 23. The Siegel High junior, who was making his first career start at cornerback, left the game late in the fourth quarter complaining of a severe headache. He was eventually airlifted to Vanderbilt University Medical Center and underwent surgery.

According to regular updates from his father, Bramble is no longer breathing with an oxygen vent and a smaller trach has been inserted. Last week, Bramble went 4 1/2 hours with his trach capped off, meaning he is doing 100 percent of the breathing through his mouth and nose, and there was some slight eye opening. On Sunday, that time frame increased to 6 1/2 hours.

His father wrote last week that Bramble “was able to move one arm and some fingers on command. In addition, he has continued to swallow ice chips and has maintained his weight.” He was recently approved for an additional two weeks at the Shepherd Center.

“We remain amazed at all the love that is still in this world, and it is impossible to express the proper thanks that is due,” David Bramble wrote. “Please know that your prayers are being heard by God and felt by the entire Bramble family.”

With the family in Atlanta, Baylor’s younger brother was a special guest of the Falcons and tight end Jacob Tamme at Sunday’s game. Tamme was among the first athletes to lend his support to the Bramble family after the injury.

Supporters of Siegel High and coach Greg Wyant also arranged for Christmas presents for Baylor’s younger brother and sister.


Six finalists set for American Family Insurance Defensive Player of the Year

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Dexter Lawrence (Photo: U.S. Army All-American Bowl)

Dexter Lawrence (Photo: U.S. Army All-American Bowl)

Three defensive linemen, two linebackers and a defensive back are the six finalists for the American Family Insurance Defensive Player of the Year award as chosen by the U.S. Army All-American Bowl Selection Committee.

The sixth annual award will be presented at the awards show on Jan. 8 in San Antonio, the night before the Army Bowl at the Alamodome.

Here are the six Army All-Americans nominated for the award in alphabetical order:

  • Derrick Brown, DL, Lanier (Buford, Ga.)
  • Kash Daniel, LB, Paintsville (Ky.)
  • Brenden Ferns, LB, St. Clairsville (Ohio)
  • Lavert Hill, DB, Martin Luther King (Detroit)
  • Josh King, DL, Hinsdale South (Darien, Ill.)
  • Dexter Lawrence, DL, Wake Forest (N.C.)

Brown is also a finalist for the Army Player of the Year award.

Meet IMG's new QB: Kellen Mond, the top-ranked dual threat in Class of 2017

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Kellen Mond (Photo: Brian Perroni, 247Sports)

Kellen Mond (Photo: Brian Perroni, 247Sports)

After losing the top dual threat quarterback in the Class of 2016 to graduation, IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.) will have the top dual-threat quarterback in the Class of 2017 on its roster next fall.

Kellen Mond has announced that he is transferring from Reagan High in San Antonio to IMG and enroll Jan. 18 after receiving his acceptance letter over the weekend. He succeeds Shea Patterson, who will enroll next month at Ole Miss after playing his senior season at IMG.

The news was first reported by 247Sports and other outlets.

“I’m really excited and so is my whole family,” Mond said Monday in an interview with ESPN1060 in Central Texas. “This gives me a great opportunity to get a great education and to play football. Being at a college preparatory school is like getting an extra year of college in. Not only will it prepare you mentally, it will prepare you physically.”

Mond, ranked No. 63 overall in the ESPN 300 for the Class of 2017, was clear that the transfer to IMG will have no impact on his commitment to Baylor and said he expressed that to the Baylor coaches Monday morning.

“Even though I’m going to IMG, I’m still 100% Baylor and always will be,” he said. “It’s an opportunity that I couldn’t pass up.”

Mond said he reached out to IMG to see what the Ascenders’ quarterback situation was for next season after finding some messages that he had previously exchanged with coaches there. He said the IMG system reflects the type of system he will play at Baylor and said he is looking forward to working with the coaches there.

He threw for 1,991 yards last season with 26 touchdowns and four interceptions. He ran for 898 yards and seven scores.

“There’s always things I can get better on,” he said. “Being coached by NFL coaches, they’re going to teach you things that they teach in the NFL and make you a better quarterback, whether it’s footwork or technique … My parents are wanting me to focus on a great education and IMG has that, and that made it a done deal.”

Mond said it will be difficult leaving San Antonio.

“It’s going to be pretty hard,” he said. “I’ve lived here my whole entire life. Knowing that this is what I want to do and this is going to make better, I’m going to have to persevere and keep on going. I know all my teammates and coaches are encouraging me.”

He later issued a statement on Twitter.

VIDEO: API's Mark Vital throws down nasty dunk at Under Armour Holiday Classic

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Advanced Prep International (Dallas) beat Brewster Academy (N.H.), 61-59, in a Showcase Division game of the Under Armour Holiday Classic in San Diego on Monday night on a game-winning shot in overtime by Billy Preston.

Preston finished with 16 points and Trevon Duval had 15 for API.

As much as the game-winner lit up the crowd, this dunk by Baylor commit Mark Vital also tore the house down.

Montverde (Fla.) Academy tops first Super 25 boys soccer rankings for winter

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The start dates for the seven states that play winter high school soccer vary with some beginning after Thanksgiving and others not starting until January That means the first USA TODAY High School Sports/National Soccer Coaches Association of America Super 25 boys soccer rankings include many teams that already have played.

RELATED: Super 25 Boys Soccer Winter Preseason Rankings

Montverde (Fla.) Academy is No. 1 in the rankings and is off to a 15-0 start, having allowed just three goals and having scored 73. The Eagles have not played since Dec. 11 and return from winter break with a Jan. 12 game against Merritt Island.

Buchanan (Clovis, Calif.) is ranked No. 2 and 10-0-1 followed by Plano West (Plano, Texas), which has not started its season.

St. Paul’s School in Covington, La., is No. 4 and 9-0-2. Gulliver Prep rounds out the Top 5 and is undefeated at 7-0.

The seven states that play winter soccer are Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, California and Hawaii, given the climate in those areas.

Montverde (Fla.) Academy at No. 1 in Super 25 girls soccer rankings for winter

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Much like its boys counterparts, the Montverde Academy (Fla.) girls soccer team begins the winter season atop the USA TODAY High School Sports/National Soccer Coaches Association of America Preseason Super 25 rankings.

RELATED: Super 25 Girls Soccer Winter Preseason Rankings

The Eagles, who are on winter break, have already started with a 12-1-1 record.

Coppell (Texas) is No. 2 and has not begun its season after a 28-0-3 mark last year.

Santiago (Corona, Calif.) is No. 3 followed by St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.), which is 15-0-1 at No. 4.

Cinco Ranch (Katy, Texas) rounds out the Top 5.

The seven states that play winter soccer are Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas, Arizona, California and Hawaii, given the climate in those areas.

Under Armour All-America Diary: Michal Menet on Penn State bond, springing big plays

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In the days leading up to the Under Armour All-America Game, USA TODAY High School Sports will be checking in with a number of players for their accounts of the events and activities in Orlando. This entry is from Penn State commit Michal Menet, an offensive lineman from Exeter Township in Reading, Pa. At 6-5 and 280, Menet is ranked as the No. 2 guard in the nation by ESPN.com, although he also can play tackle.

It was a nice changeup when I got in yesterday to get out of the cold, even though it hasn’t been too bad at home. At times, it was a little hot during practice today, but there was a good breeze blowing.

It was awesome to get the pads back on. I was a little rusty, but was able to shake it off after a little bit, and we got after it. It was fun. Practice is definitely competitive, but at the end of the day, we’re on the same team so whatever happens during reps is forgotten. You get over it walking back to the huddle and it’s on to the next rep.

All the Penn State guys are on Team Armour so that’s been great. I’m rooming with Ellison Jordan (from Gilman in Baltimore) and we got to go up against each other a few times in practice. He’s a pretty good player. I’ve got the chance to see Miles Sanders (from Woodland Hills in Pittsburgh) and Shane Simmons (from DeMatha Catholic in Maryland). I’ve known them all for a little bit, and we’ve seen each other up at Penn State. This is a chance to continue building the relationship.

There’s a few other guys we’re looking at for Penn State here. I haven’t gotten the chance to talk to them yet, and no, I’m not going to give their names.

All-America games tend to be about offense, and there’s definitely a motivation to help our guys make big plays. They really can’t do it without us up front. Any big play for them is a big play for us. We don’t get the recognition, but we know we play a decent role in it.

There’s a couple of dudes on the other side I’m looking to face and I’m ready to test myself against the best athlete in the nation.

Away from the field, I’m looking forward to going to Disney and Hollywood Studios and the Magic vs. Nets game. This week should be a lot of fun and a lot of my family is coming down from Pennsylvania to support me. My whole immediate family and I think one or two of my aunts and uncles and family friends are all making the trip.

Under Armour All-America Diary: Nate Craig-Myers on his half-brother, recruiting and who impressed him

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In the days leading up to the Under Armour All-America Game, USA TODAY High School Sports will be checking in with a number of players for their accounts of the events and activities in Orlando. This entry is from Nate Craig-Myers, a five-star wide receiver from Tampa Catholic in Florida. He is ranked as the No. 2 wide receiver in the nation by ESPN.com. Myers’ half-brother, Pasco (Fla.) cornerback Jayvaughn Myers is also an Under Armour All-American.

A lot of brothers haven’t had the chance to play together in an all-star game like this and we want to make the most of our opportunity. We’re on the same team and we’re rooming together. He’s playing corner and I’m playing receiver. We did 7 on 7.

I figure we’ll get a chance to go at each other in practice this week. When that times comes, you can’t shy away from it. Whether it’s your brother or your friend, you go out and compete.

People have asked us about a package deal. That’s something we want, but if it happens, it happens and if it doesn’t, it doesn’t. We want to make the right decision for both of us.

Since I haven’t committed, every time I hang out with these guys, they throw their two cents in about what school I should go to.  I’ve heard from Woody Barrett about Auburn and Levonta Taylor about Florida State and some of the guys from Florida are trying to get me on board.

I don’t have a number of schools and I don’t get into which ones are the top schools. Wherever I end up going, that’s where I’ll end up going.

I felt so good being back on the field and trying to learn all the new plays today. I thought we did some good work today. It was different for a lot of the guys who were saying it’s hot. They don’t know how we do it down here. It was the same weather were used to.

Even though it’s an all-star game, I still go out with the same mindset and compete and make the best of the opportunity. I just want to give the fans what they want to see. These games are really for the offense and I want to make plays.

I met a lot of guys out here so far, and I’m really impressed with Drake Davis from IMG. He’s a freak of nature and does a lot of great things.

Tampa Catholic wide receiver Nate Craig-Myers' go-to move is unstoppable. (Photo: Under Armour All-American Bowl).

Tampa Catholic wide receiver Nate Craig-Myers’ go-to move is unstoppable. (Photo: Under Armour All-American Bowl).

 


2015 ALL-USA New Mexico Football Team

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USA TODAY High School Sports is proud to announce the 2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA New Mexico Football Team. Players were selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2015-16 season.

For the complete list of American Family Insurance ALL-USA state teams, click here.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Heath Ridenour, Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

Ridenour took the reins at Cleveland in 2012 on the heels of the Storm’s historic 2011 season in which they went 13-0 and won their first-ever state title. Four years later, Ridenour led the team to a repeat of those heroics this fall. The Storm were an offensive juggernaut this fall, averaging nearly 50 points per game.

OFFENSE

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Gabe Ortega, Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

Ortega did a little bit of everything for the Storm this fall. As a dual-threat quarterback, he completed 65 percent of his passes for 2,530 yards and 25 touchdowns and ran for 912 yards and three more scores. A free safety on defense, Ortega made 66 tackles and nabbed three interceptions. The New Mexico recruit also served as the team’s’ punter, averaging an impressive 43.4 yards per boot.

First Team

QB Gabe Ortega (6-2, 190, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

RB Jimmy Gallegos (5-9, 190, Sr.), Sandia (Albuquerque)

RB Isaac Vance (5-9, 160, Jr.), Mayfield (Las Cruces)

WR Devin Beard (6-0, 165, Sr.), Hobbs

WR Marcus Williams (6-5, 185, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

TE Roland Chavez (6-4, 210, Sr.), Clovis

OL Henry Hattis (6-7, 270, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

OL Grant Hermanns (6-6, 255, Sr.), Rio Rancho

OL George Nino (6-1, 315, Sr.), Centennial (Las Cruces)

OL Trevor Noblitt (6-1, 215, Sr.), Estancia

OL Bryce Wade (6-6, 230, Jr.), Eldorado (Albuquerque)

Second Team

QB Kameron Miller (6-2, 185, Sr.), Las Cruces

RB O’Maury Samuels (5-11, 195, Jr.), Los Lunas

RB Bronte Staugaard (6-0, 165, Sr.), Portales

WR Brandon Baeza (5-8, 155, Sr.), Las Cruces

WR Julian Segura (6-3, 195, Sr.), Alamogordo

TE Ethan Duff (5-7, 165, Jr.), Artesia

OL Cameron Burkley (6-0, 280, Sr.), Centennial (Las Cruces)

OL Morgan Dunnahoo (5-11, 230, Jr.), Hatch Valley (Hatch)

OL Nate Garcia (5-11, 260, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

OL Santos Taylor (6-2, 280, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

OL Dylan Weaver (6-6, 255, Jr.), Piedra Vista (Farmington)

DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Noah Sweitzer, Eldorado (Albuquerque)

Sweitzer totaled 181 tackles in his senior season to lead Eldorado to the Class 6A championship game. Returning from a lacerated kidney injury he suffered as a junior, Sweitzer also topped 1,000 yards as a running back for the Eagles.

First Team

DL Sean Davis (5-11, 255, Jr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

DL Jeremy Karngbaye (6-4, 200, Jr.), Portales

DL Noah Pierce (6-3, 230, Sr.), Mayfield (Las Cruces)

DL Teton Saltes (6-6, 235, Sr.), Valley (Albuquerque)

LB Francisco Arguello (6-2, 220, Sr.), Robertson (Las Vegas)LB Caleb Ortiz (6-4, 245, Sr.), Estancia

LB Noah Sweitzer (6-1, 210, Sr.), Eldorado (Albuquerque)

DB Carlos Carrasco (5-8, 150, Sr.), Artesia

DB Cade Hackey (6-3, 185, Jr.), Hatch Valley (Hatch)

DB David Inman (6-1, 175, Sr.), Eldorado (Albuquerque)

DB Caleb Meyer-Hagen (6-3, 175, Sr.), Hope Christian (Albuquerque)

Second Team

DL Fernando Acosta (6-0, 195, Jr.), Clovis

DL David Brown (6-3, 220, Sr.), Eldorado (Albuquerque)

DL Adrian Grajeda (5-9, 160, Sr.), Hatch Valley (Hatch)

DL Ricardo Silva (5-7-210, Jr.), Roswell

LB Landry Hayes (6-1, 185, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

LB Corey Noel (6-0, 175, Sr.), Las Cruces

LB Santiago Mora (5-9, 180, Jr.), Moriarty

DB Aaron Bean (5-10 165, Sr.), Atrisco Heritage Academy (Albuquerque)

DB Kurt Kelley (5-8, 155, Sr.), Clovis

DB Adam Lujan (5-8, 150, Sr.), Estancia

DB Marc Sotelo (5-8, 165, Sr.), Centennial (Las Cruces)

SPECIAL TEAMS

K David Duran (6-0, 170, Sr.), Cleveland (Rio Rancho)

2015 ALL-USA California Football Team

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USA TODAY High School Sports is proud to announce the 2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA California Football Team. Players were selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2015-16 season.

For the complete list of American Family Insurance ALL-USA state teams, click here.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Jack Willard, Camarillo

Willard led the Scorpions to their first section championship in 19 years this fall. Camarillo claimed the Southern Section Northern Division championship in a 55-27 victory over Thousand Oaks. The Scorpions averaged 47 points per game on the year and were 14-0 entering their Division II-AA South regional clash with La Habra on Dec. 11.

OFFENSE

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Michael Pittman, Oaks Christian (Westlake Village)

Pittman was uncoverable as a senior this fall, piling up 81 receptions for 1,990 yards and 24 touchdowns, including a dramatic five-touchdown performance in his final game of the season. The U.S. Army All-American has committed to USC.

First Team

QB Khalil Tate (6-0, 210, Sr.), Junipero Serra (Gardena)

RB Najee Harris (6-2, 220, Jr.), Antioch

RB Sean McGrew (5-8, 175, Sr.), St. John Bosco (Bellflower)

WR Michael Pittman (6-4, 205, Sr.), Oaks Christian (Westlake Village)

WR Tyler Vaughns (6-2, 175, Sr.), Bishop Amat (La Puente)

TE Devin Asiasi (6-5, 250, Sr.), De La Salle (Concord)

OL Wyatt Davis (6-3, 330, Jr.), St. John Bosco (Bellflower)

OL Daniel Juarez (6-5, 295, Sr.), Centennial (Corona)

OL Frank Martin II (6-5, 300, Sr.), Mater Dei (Santa Ana)

OL Luke Wattenberg (6-4, 275, Sr.), J-Serra (San Juan Capistrano)

OL Jonah Williams (6-5, 290, Sr.), Folsom

Second Team

QB Patrick O’Brien (6-3, 230, Sr.), San Juan Hills (San Juan Capistrano)

RB Stephen Carr (6-0, 180, Jr.), Summit (Fontana)

RB J.J. Taylor (5-6, 155, Sr.), Centennial (Corona)

WR Theo Howard (6-0, 175, Sr.), Westlake (Westlake Village)

WR Javon McKinley (6-2, 195, Sr.), Centennial (Corona)

TE Cole Fotheringham (6-4, 215, Sr.), San Clemente

OL Michael Alves (6-5, 320, Sr.), St. Augustine (San Diego)

OL Logan Bathke (6-5, 265, Sr.), Lutheran (Orange)

OL Matt Brayton (6-4, 295, Sr.), Bishop Amat (La Puente)

OL Cohl Cabral (6-5, 250, Sr.), Los Osos (Rancho Cucamonga)

OL Nathan Smith (6-7, 275, Sr.), Mesa (Murrieta)

DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Oluwole Betiku, Junipero Serra (Gardena)

Betiku took up football in 2013 and by 2015 is already the best defensive lineman in the state. He racked up 17 sacks and 28 tackles-for-loss this fall. Originally committed to UCLA, Betiku has reopened his recruitment and is considering USC, Texas A&M, Notre Dame, Florida State and Florida.

First Team

DL Oluwole Betiku (6-4, 250, Sr.), Junipero Serra (Gardena)

DL Breland Brandt (6-4, 220, Sr.), Windward (Los Angeles)

DL Carter Hartmann (6-3, 265, Sr.), Mission Viejo

DL Boss Tagaloa (6-3, 305, Sr.), De La Salle (Concord)

LB Mique Juarez (6-2, 222, Sr.), Torrance North (Torrance)

LB Caleb Kelly (6-3, 215, Sr.), Clovis West (Fresno)

LB Curtis Robinson (6-3, 215, Sr.), Mater Dei (Santa Ana)

DB Brandon Burton (6-1, 190, Sr.), Junipero Serra (Gardena)

DB Lamar Jackson (6-2, 205, Sr.), Elk Grove (Franklin)

DB Jack Jones (5-10, 165, Sr.), Poly (Long Beach)

DB David Long (6-0, 170, Sr.), Loyola (Los Angeles)

Second Team

DL Liam Jimmons (6-4, 240, Sr.), Huntington Beach

DL Chris Yaghi (6-4, 270, Sr.), Foothill

DL Bryson Young (6-5, 220, Sr.), Buchanon (Clovis)

DL Jabari Watson (6-3, 255, Sr.), Summit (Fontana)

LB Krys Barnes (6-2, 220, Sr.), Liberty (Bakersfield)

LB Camilo Eifler (6-1, 215, Sr.), Bishop O’Dowd (Oakland)

LB Bryce Youngquist (6-2, 210, Sr.), Los Osos (Rancho Cucamonga)

DB Traveon Beck (5-10, 170, Sr.), St. John Bosco (Bellflower)

DB Jordan Parker (5-11, 185, Sr.), Pittsburg

DB C.J. Pollard (6-1, 185, Sr.), Junipero Serra (Gardena)

DB Troy Warner (6-2, 185, Sr.), Mission Hills (San Marcos)

SPECIAL TEAMS

K Manny Berz (5-9, 180, Jr.), Citrus Hill (Perris)

2015 ALL-USA Michigan Football Team

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USA TODAY High School Sports is proud to announce the 2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA Michigan Football Team. Players were selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2015-16 season.

For the complete list of American Family Insurance ALL-USA state teams, click here.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Jason Couch and Curt Rienas, Romeo

Couch and Rienas have been co-head coaches at Romeo since 2002, and this fall the duo led the Bulldogs to a Division I state crown. Romeo averaged 37.5 points per game on offense and topped 40 in each of its final three state tournament games.

OFFENSE

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Donnie Corley, King (Detroit)

Corley had 1,403 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns, none bigger than his 39-yard TD catch as time expired to win the Division II state championship over Lowell. The U.S. Army All-American added 10 interceptions on defense as well.

First Team

QB Tony Poljan (6-7, 230, Sr.), Lansing Catholic (Lansing)

RB Martell Pettaway (5-10, 205, Sr.), King (Detroit)

RB Markus Sanders (5-9, 180, Jr.), Canton

WR Donnie Corley (6-2, 182, Sr.), King (Detroit)

WR Desmond Fitzpatrick (6-2, 195, Sr.), Mott (Waterford)

TE Drew Beesley (6-3, 220, Sr.), De La Salle (Warren)

OL Derices Brown (6-2, 280, Sr.), Muskegon

OL Michael Jordan (6-6, 285, Sr.), Plymouth (Canton)

OL Cameron Kolwich (6-5, 270, Sr.), St. Mary’s (Orchard Lake)

OL Tom Kowalkoski (6-5, 280, Sr.), Detroit Catholic Central (Novi)

OL Michael Onwenu (6-3, 365, Sr.), Cass Tech (Detroit)

Second TeamQB Josh Jackson (6-2, 200, Sr.), Saline

RB Emanuel Jackson (6-0, 175, Sr.), Novi

RB Mike Marston (6-0, 190, Sr.), Lapeer

WR Trishton Jackson (6-3, 190, Sr.), West Bloomfield

WR Donovan People-Jones (6-2, 190, Jr.), Cass Tech (Detroit)

TE Keegan Cossou (6-5, 225, Jr.), Greenville

OL Mark Brooks (6-7, 260, Sr.), Portland

OL JaRaymond Hall (6-5, 270, Jr.), Oak Park

OL Alaric Jackson (6-7, 285, Sr.), Renaissance (Detroit)

OL Carl Myers (6-3, 265, Sr.), West Catholic (Grand Rapids)

OL Dan Perry (6-3, 275, Sr.), Lapeer

DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Khalid Kareem, Harrison (Farmington Hills)

Kareem recorded 56 tackles (36 for a loss), 16 sacks and five forced fumbles this fall. The ferocious defensive end has committed to Notre Dame.

First Team

DL Khalid Kareem (6-4, 260, Sr.), Harrison (Farmington Hills)

DL Cedrick Lattimore (6-6, 265, Sr.), East English Village (Detroit)

DL Edrick Mathews (6-4, 265, Sr.), Cass Tech (Detroit)

DL Zach Van Valkenburg (6-4, 235, Sr.), Zeeland West (Zeeland)

LB Mitch Heimbuch (6-3, 220, Sr.), Romeo

LB Brandon Randle (6-2, 215, Sr.), Central (Battle Creek)

LB Josh Ross (6-1, 210, Jr.), St. Mary’s (Orchard Lake)

DB Hunter Broersma (6-1, 190, Sr.), Mona Shores (Norton Shores)

DB Stefan Claiborne (6-1, 170, Sr.), Chippewa Valley (Clinton)

DB Lavert Hill (5-11, 180, Sr.), King (Detroit)

DB Demetric Vance (6-1, 195, Sr.), Cass Tech (Detroit)

Second Team

DL Johnathan Berghorst (6-3, 245, Jr.) Zeeland East (Zeeland)

DL Chauncey Golston (6-5, 245, Sr.), East English Village (Detroit)

DL Ty McTaggart (5-11, 270, Sr.), Chelsea

DL Jeremiah Tyler (6-1, 205, Sr.), Detroit Country Day (Beverly Hills)

LB Max Dean (5-11, 185, Sr.), Lowell

LB David Reese (6-1, 235, Sr.), Farmington

LB Antjuan Simmons (6-1, 205, Jr.), Pioneer (Ann Arbor)

DB Dontre Boyd (5-10, 165, Sr.), King (Detroit)

DB Kahlee Hamler (5-9, 165, Jr.), St. Mary’s (Orchard Lake)

DB Conner Nemmers (6-1, 190, Sr.), West Catholic (Grand Rapids)

DB Brad Tanner (6-2, 185, Sr.), Romeo

SPECIAL TEAMS

K Quinn Nordin (6-1, 200, Sr.), Rockford

2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA State Football Teams

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USATSI_9001583

Donnie Corley named ALL-USA Michigan Offensive Player of the Year. (Photo: Eric Seals, Detroit Free Press)

USA TODAY High School Sports is proud to announce the 2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA State Football Teams.  Players were selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2015-16 season.

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2015 ALL-USA Maryland Football Team

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USA TODAY High School Sports is proud to announce the 2015 American Family Insurance ALL-USA Maryland Football Team. Players were selected based on their athletic achievements from the 2015-16 season.

For the complete list of American Family Insurance ALL-USA state teams, click here.

COACH OF THE YEAR: Eric Wallich, Damascus

Wallich guided the Hornets to a perfect 14-0 record and their first state title since 2007. His offense broke the state record with 662 points scored and Damascus outscored foes by an average of 37.9 points.

OFFENSE

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Jake Funk, Damascus

Funk turned in a historic season, breaking the state record with 57 touchdowns. A Maryland commit, Funk scored seven of those TDs in the Class 3A state final. He rushed for 2,866 yards on the season, averaging 11.5 yards per carry.

First Team

QB Dwayne Haskins (6-4, 205, Sr.), Bullis (Potomac)

RB Jake Funk (5-11, 205, Sr.), Damascus

RB Antonio Dupree (5-11, 225, Sr.), Gilman (Baltimore)

WR Trevon Diggs (6-2, 190, Sr.), Avalon (Gaithersburg)

WR Steven Smothers (5-10, 165, Sr.), Franklin (Reisterstown)

TE Jarrett Heckert (6-2, 210, Sr.), Annapolis Christian

OL Devery Hamilton (6-7, 290, Sr.), Gilman (Baltimore)

OL Terrance Davis (6-4, 305, Sr.), DeMatha (Hyattsville)

OL Jordan McNair (6-5, 286, Jr.), McDonogh (Owings Mills)

OL Brian Plummer (6-7, 300, Sr.), South Carroll (Sykesville)

OL Stephen Spanellis (6-6, 315, Sr.), Gilman (Baltimore)

Second Team

QB Ramar Williams (6-1, 180, Sr.), Bishop McNamara (Forestville)

RB Malik Anderson (5-6, 160, Sr.), Howard (Ellicott City)

RB Lorenzo Harrison (5-9, 193, Sr.), DeMatha (Hyattsville)

WR Camari Murray (5-10, 165, Sr.), Bishop McNamara (Forestville)

WR Marcus Simms (6-1, 180, Sr.), Sherwood (Sandy Spring)

TE Myles Wright (6-2, 215, Jr.), St. Frances (Baltimore)

OL Zeph Titus (5-10, 290, Sr.), Quince Orchard (Gaithersburg)

OL Jacob Bradshaw (6-2, 271, Sr.), Damascus

OL Wes Mehl (6-4, 275, Sr.), Gilman (Baltimore)

OL Chris Wissman (6-3, 315, Sr.), Old Mill (Millersville)

OL Brian Godwin (6-3, 285, Sr.), Arundel (Gambrills)

DEFENSE

DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Ellison Jordan, Gilman (Baltimore)

Jordan was the monster in the middle of the state’s toughest defensive unit. The Penn State commit recorded 17 sacks this past season to go with 71 tackles, 19 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles. An Under Armour All-American, he set a school record with 52 career sacks.

First Team

DL Ellison Jordan (6-1, 280, Sr.), Gilman (Baltimore)

DL Shane Simmons (6-4, 227, Sr.), DeMatha (Hyattsville)

DL John Daka (6-3, 210, Sr.), Wise (Upper Marlboro)

DL Darnell Creek (6-3, 230, Jr.), Broadneck (Annapolis)

LB Keandre Jones (6-3, 198, Sr.), Good Counsel (Olney)

LB Nathan Proctor (6-3, 217, Sr.), Lackey (Indian Head)

LB Ali’i Niumatalolo (6-2, 230, Sr.), Broadneck (Annapolis)

DB Damani Neal (6-0, 183, Jr.), Bullis (Potomac)

DB Myles Wolfolk (6-1, 190, Sr.), Wise (Upper Marlboro)

DB Eric Burrell (6-0, 185, Sr.), McDonogh (Owings Mills)

DB Antoine Brooks (6-1, 215, Sr.), DuVal (Lanham)

Second Team

DL Taron Vincent (6-3, 285, So.), Gilman (Baltimore)

DL Chase Young (6-5, 235, Jr.), DeMatha (Hyattsville)

DL Izon Pulley (6-4, 222, Sr.), Good Counsel (Olney)

DL Chinedu Udeogu (6-5, 245, Sr.), Georgetown Prep (North Bethesda)

LB Keisean Wilson (6-2, 230, Jr.), North Point (Waldorf)

LB Tyshon Fogg (6-2, 225, Jr.), Calvert Hall (Baltimore)

LB Mikey Donaldson (6-3, 240, Sr.), Patuxent (Lusby)

DB Sir Patrick Scott (6-2, 190, Sr.), Riverdale Baptist (Upper Marlboro)

DB Devin Butler (6-3, 187, Sr.), Douglass (Upper Marlboro)

DB Kareem Felder (5-11, 166, Sr.), Franklin (Reisterstown)

DB Devonte Young (6-0, 195, Sr.), North Point (Waldorf)

SPECIAL TEAMS

K/P Dom Maggio (6-3, 160, Sr.), Boys Latin (Baltimore)

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