Friday, June 4, 2010

Stars Shine Bright at Rocky Mountain Combine!



Prairie View High School played host to a terrific combine last weekend that put a number of talented prospects on display. Participants trekked from multiple states (including Utah, Wyoming and Arizona) with hopes of taking their game to the next level. Every participant undoubtedly left their blood, sweat and tears on the football field, but after three competitive combine sessions, a select few stood out as the Rocky Mountain's best.
Brighton HS' Zane "The Train" Smith rolled through the competition, taking home the Junior Overall MVP award. The 6'3 202 lb Tight End was literally and figuratively head and shoulders above the competition, grabbing the majority of passes that came his way during the 1 on 1's. Smith displayed exceptional quickness for a big man, has great hands and is an easy target to find for a QB. He is definitely a receiving model TE and a perfect fit for the position.
Ben Clarke (Chatfield) was virtually immovable during the 1 on 1's and looks like a QB's dream. The 6'2.5 248 lb Clarke was a defensive lineman's worst nightmare, as his determination, promise and excellent technique. From the moment he stepped up to the line, Clarke was ready to go and handled many different d-lineman with ease. Coaches love players like this.
Jeremiah Hunter (Cheyenne) has the potential to play both WR and TE, but regardless of where he suits up, it's going to be a problem for the defense. The 6'2 191 lb standout was effective in using his size against smaller d-backs during the 1 on 1's positioning himself to make a number of nice grabs. Hunter has great leaping ability (jumping 9'10 on the broad), strong hands and runs terrific routes. Hunter is worth watching out for.
River "King" Thompson had every reason to feel like a million bucks following the combine. The 5'8 147 lb d-back was a menace during the 1 on 1's, pressuring the WR's to the max. He had great recovery speed, can change directions on the dime and plays the ball very well. Thompson was also the best pure athlete during the class of 2011 session, with a 33 inch vertical, 9'8 broad jump, 4.12 shuttle run and 4.62 40. His size will be a concern for some programs, but his skills can't be questioned.

Exceptional Underclassmen!
·        Aaron Mispagel (Mullen) is an accurate passer who knew when to get the ball out of his hands and up in the air. The 6'3.5 189 lb QB moves well and has great leadership skills.

·        Ben Cherry (Silver Creek) brought his A game and was a star throughout the day. The 5'10.5 295 lb d-lineman bench pressed 185 lbs 33 times, had an 8'0 broad jump and was simply sensational during 1 on 1's. Cherry's strength, hast hands and determination were too much for the offensive line to handle.

·        Fountain HS' Ben Selby proved to be the total package at running back. The class of 2013 standout made major waves during the individual period, changing directions like a pro at a high speed, while also displaying terrific hands. At 5'10 189, Selby has phenomenal size for a freshman, therefore is likely to outgrow the position.

·        Ryan Novak (Heritage) also has great size for a first year high schooler. The 6'5 241 lb QB looks like a pro physically and has a great head on his shoulders. Novak throws a good ball, kept those around him pumped up and maintained control during the 1 on 1's, proving to have the maturity level of a player many years his senior. This well rounded prospect is definitely worth watching out for.

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