Sunday, September 2, 2012

Prospect watch from week one: Cali defenders

Contributed photo
Here's how some notable under-the-radar defenders fared in week one:

LORENZO TERRY, WEST VALLEY-HEMET

Week one stats: One interception, good for a 75 yard touchdown return. One reception, good for a 35 yard score in 70-0 rout over Coachella.

Overview: Once again, Terry is dynamite waiting to go off once he touches the football. A threat to take it back once the ball is in his hands, regardless if he's on offense or defense. In his last three games he's had six touchdowns off of five receptions and five interceptions.

MALCOLM MCALISTER, NORWALK

Week one stats: One sack, seven tackles, five solo. Offense: six carries for 120 yards in 52-38 victory over Diamond Bar.

Overview: McAlister helped re-energize a pass rush and defense that fell to an early 20-7 hole, but then allowed just 18 total points in the next three quarters in the come-from-behind victory. A good sized player at 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, McAlister is capable of providing a motor for someone in the front line of a defense or even at fullback.

JAE HUGHES, ST. GENEVIEVE-PANORAMA CITY

Week one stats: Three tackles, two sacks in 54-0 rout over Animo Leadership.

Overview: The 6-foot-tall, 220 pound nose guard is starting to pick up attention, since he now has a state-best six sacks in two games for the Valiants. It's rare that someone in the middle of the defense can lead his team in sacks, but Hughes has gotten to the quarterback often this year from his nose spot.

JUSTUS FAAIU, CABRILLO-LONG BEACH

Week one stats: 16 tackles, 12 solo, two sacks in 37-6 loss to San Clemente.

Overview: The Jaguars have had a difficult start at 0-2, but Faaiu has been off to a fast start. The versatile 6-foot-2, 220 pound outside linebacker can rush, tackle and hit. He's currently fifth in the state in total tackles with 31 and is averaging 15.5 per game.

TYRONE MUHAMMAD, EDISON-FRESNO

Week one stats: 13 tackles, one forced fumble in 26-21 victory over Carson.

Overview: Not the biggest linebacker at barely six feet tall and roughly 180 pounds, but Muhammad (photo) has a nose for the football and his closing speed fits perfectly at Edison, who's always prided themselves on speed and defense. Muhammad may get a look as a strong safety at the next level due to size, but he can play up to the line and close openings quick.

ERIC WINGFIELD, SUNNYSIDE-CLOVIS

Week one stats: 15 tackles, two forced fumbles in 21-0 win over Lemoore.

Overview: A rugged player who seems to always be around the football, Wingfield delivers the kind of hits that can make people lose the football, proven by the two fumbles he forced. So far, he's forced three fumbles on the year. Twin brother Errian also dominated on his end, with a 24 carry, 205 yard and two touchdown evening for the Wildcats.


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