Prep football: 5 guys to watch on the gridiron in Week 8

BRAYLEND REBER, ADAMS CENTRAL

Tonight’s game against Bluffton may have lost some luster due to the Tigers’ loss last week to Heritage. That doesn’t change the importance of the game though as the Flying Jets need the win to control their own destiny in winning an ACAC title. Reber had two catches last Friday, which were AC’s only two against Southern Wells, but they went for 42 total yards with one being a touchdown. After seeing how Heritage used balance in their offense against Bluffton, it makes Reber’s length a major weapon.

AARON VANCE, SNIDER

A 3-4 Bishop Dwenger squad added some intrigue to tonight’s game with their win over rival Luers last week. But with the way that Aaron Vance helped do away with Snider’s rivalry week opponent, there is quite a bit of interest in how he attacks the physical Saints defense. Vance went from 319 yards of total offense with 6 total touchdowns and connecting on 20-of-25 passing attempts last Friday. His importance to the Snider run into the postseason continues to grow.

ETHAN MCINTOSH, COLUMBIA CITY

The Eagles visit Leo with any hopes of sharing a NE8 title hanging in the balance. Sure, first place East Noble closes with the two bottom teams in the conference, but the battle for second place holds intrigue. To stymy the Leo rushing offense that has thrived all season, the Eagles will lean into McIntosh, who leads the team in tackles (40), tackles for loss (9) and sacks (3). McIntosh has been solid in getting into the backfield and that will be huge against Nathan Foster’s rush and to try and fluster Leo quarterback Grayson Esguerra.

HAWK HASSELMAN, ANGOLA

The one thing that stands in the way of Garrett capturing a NECC Big Division title is Angola tonight, and while the Hornets have not been at the top of their game in parts during this season, Hawk Hasselman has performed beautifully. He continued to be one of the best/most multi-faceted talents in the area and showed that in Saturday’s win over Owen Valley, which puts Angola at their first back-to-back situation of the season. The last time they won back-to-back games was last season, starting in a win over Garrett. Hasselman will certainly look to play spoiler tonight to the unbeaten Railroaders.

DARYEA WILLIAMS, BISHOP LUERS

This is a bit of a no brainer, but Bishop Luers needs Williams to thrive on the ground to be their best. The Knights are looking for a bounce back game and a chance to have a perfect season opposite SAC B Division opponents as they drive up the street to visit South Side. Williams will be looking to surpass 1,000 rushing yards on the season as he sits at 884 yards with an average of 126.3 per game. After going for just 62 yards last Friday in a loss, look for Williams to be a big focus.