It was tough, but we got it done. The Winter Fire 49 list dropped a few weeks back and we are proud of the product. There were so many kids who could have made that list, but as the title states, there can only be “49”. Below are a FEW of the talented 2014 players who just missed the cut.
Cortavious Givens, Admiral Farragut, RB/LB [5-11/200]
Before his season ending knee injury, Givens was considered one of the best RBs in the Bay. If he comes back strong, he could claim his rightful spot amongst the best. At nearly 6ft and solid at 200lbs, he has a frame like a college sophomore.
Gary Brown, Alonso, OT
Just wait! This name will become very popular. The 2014 Raven is still a baby but has plenty of upside.
Marcus Mosley, Alonso, TE/WR [6-4/195]
Entering the 2012 season, this young player could be ranked as one of the top TE/WR in Tampa Bay. He has a very good frame, runs well and is not afraid to catch the ball in traffic.
Kyle Gibson, Armwood, S, [6-1/165]
The hard hitting Hawk safety came on strong in 2011 and will be expected to get bigger and be better in 2012. Gibson is a little light right now, but may hit a grow spurt and add some very good weight during the offseason. Tagged up with Leon McQuay, Gibson should make his own name in 2012,
Darren Lester, Brandon, OT
The big offensive tackle out of Brandon shows his age when he plays, but another thing that is evident is his love for the game. Lester plays high, uses a few wasted steps, but that is to be expected from a young player. What he also does is latch on to defenders, drive his feet and play to the whistle. This kid will be a big name in years to come.
Maurice Hall, Gibbs, DE/WR [6-2/195]
Hall already holds a verbal offer from Oklahoma. He is attracting attention from numerous division 1 schools. He is as versatile as they come and a great kid. Keep your ears open, you will hear this name plenty.
Michael Clark, Gibbs, WR [6-5/170]
After transferring from Tampa Catholic to Boca Ciega, Clark did not join the Boca football team. If he decides to step back on the gridiron, Clarke will automatically become one of the best receivers in Pinellas County.
Austin Roberts, Plant, WR [6-2/185]
Right now he is 6-2. This time next year, don’t be surprised if he is 6-4/215. Roberts smelled himself a little this season, becoming a quality contributor in the Panther receiving corp. If he hits the off season hard, his 2012 season can be an all-out jail break!
Chivarsky Corbett, Tampa Catholic, QB [6-4/170]
Corbett still holds the key to how good Corbett can be. The multi-sport sophomore is talented but did not show a great leap of improvement from his freshman to sophomore season. Once basketball season concludes Corbett will need to focus on hammering the weight room and sharpening his craft to prepare for what is likely to be his make or break recruiting year.