THE BOX

The Mashup: USF 7 on 7, Recent Commits and Players to track

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Judge Culpepper, Plant
Judge Culpepper, Plant

4 Teams Who Impressed at #USF Sling ‘N’ Shoot

Wiregrass Ranch – On the shoulders of quarterback Grant Sessums, Wiregrass Ranch played with passion, excitement and energy. The Bulls (in shorts) showed a big play offense with a “score now” philosophy. A number of athletes on both sides of the ball. However, Grant  Sessums completely stole the show.

Middleton – Their play was inconsistent…up and down…Also it was evident the Tigers were missing a few playmakers. But, their confidence was infectious. If the attitude displayed during the 7 on 7 tournament was any indication of what is to come in the fall…we like the Tigers to start strong again in 2017. Athletic team with a good offensive passing concept.

Manatee – The question marks swirling around the Hurricanes this offseason due to the recent changes at the top and a few outgoing transfers. At USF this past weekend, Manatee gave us a glimpse of what could be in 2017. Totally different offense which will likely start on the ground. Quick read passing attack and athletic defense.

Plant – The Champs…2017 USF 7 on 7 Champs in impressive fashion. It is kind of…much of the same. We have seen this systematic, crisp, sharp, high paced Plant 7 on 7 offense often. And when we do, it leads to a deep fall playoff run and/or State Title. Great sign for the Panthers!

3 Recent commits

Ja’Veon Marlow, Winter Haven – Vanderbilt

  • Three down back
  • Attacks defenders
  • Breaks tackles
  • Great upfield burst

Isaiah Bellamy, Largo – UCF

  • Positions are endless. Projection: Tight end or Defensive End
  • Smooth Strider
  • Can engage quickly
  • Big target

Judge Culpepper, Plant – Penn State

  • Powerful. Projection: Interior Defensive Line or Offensive tackle
  • Able to colapse the pocket and move the line of scrimmage
  • Plays with leverage
  • Strong hands

2 Athletes to track this year
We will highlight two defensive backs here. Both who will likely see action on both sides of the ball and contributors on special teams.

Bryce Smith, River Ridge, 2018, CB – Great hips in addition to his fantastic footwork. Smith is a transfer from Fivay who will provide coverage skills and athleticism to the River Ridge defense.

Caliste Catia, Clearwater Central Catholic, 2019, CB – Very similar to Bryce Smith. The difference will be opportunity which Caliste will have more of because of the pass happy league. Teams on his schedule are pass heavy and Catia has the ability to play man to man. Will have the opportunity to rack up pass break ups and interceptions this season.

1 Quote for the road
“I am very lucky to coach Josh Bowers. He is a very athletic, competitive player who is really becoming a great leader. He came back from a knee injury and worked very hard to be even more explosive than he was before. I am hoping for great things for him this year. He is hungry to get started as he missed all of last season. Not all athletes recover from injury better than they were prior. That’s a testament of his work ethic and the desire to be back out there with his team.” – East Lake head football coach Bob Hudson