Prep football: 5 guys to watch on the gridiron in Week 9

KIMAR NELSON, WAYNE vs. Snider

Following Wayne’s tough loss last week to a surging North Side team, they have the chance to head to the postseason with major momentum if they can knock off Snider. The Panthers’ offense has been finding success lately, especially on the ground. That is where Nelson will look to play a major role, as per usual. The senior has been colossal on the defensive end with 32 more tackles than Wayne’s next in line with 94 total tackles and 23.5 for a loss. Nelson is a hard hitter who creates defense with two forced fumbles and 14 total sacks, which is tied for 16th most nationally according to MaxPreps.

DREW FLEEK, WOODLAN vs. Adams Central

The Warriors want to play spoiler in a major way when they welcome the Flying Jets to Woodburn on Friday night and will do so with Fleek at the forefront. The multi-dimensional senior has been an anchor for the offense with 718 rushing yards including rushing for over 100 yards in three of the eight weeks gone by and scoring 8 of Woodlan’s 25 offensive touchdowns. Fleek has also been strapped on defense with a team high 5 sacks, a pair of interceptions and 55 tackles.

TRISTAN WILSON, WARSAW at Northridge

The Raiders like to put the ball in the air, with sophomore quarterback Karsyn Rumfelt throwing for 1,185 yards this season. That means that the Warsaw defensive backfield will have to be stout and Wilson, the senior, has been a major part of that so far this season. The scrappy safety picked off a pass on the first defensive drive of the game on senior night against Mishawaka. Wilson has also been a really major part of the return game, including a 97 yard touchdown return against Goshen and a long exciting run back against Plymouth.

MAALIK MOORE, North Side vs. Carroll

Speaking of postseason momentum, which this week is all about, how big would it be for North Side to tackle the SAC champion Chargers? Last week, three of Moore’s four catches went for touchdowns as he averaged more than 35 yards per catch in a win over Wayne. Like many of the other two-way players mentioned this week, Moore continues to stand out defensively as well with two interceptions last week to move him to a team high four picks on the season.

CARMYNE MORENO, Fremont at Blackhawk Christian

The Eagles will push towards the postseason as they visit the Braves for the first time ever. Moreno continues to be one of the more underrated backs in the area due to Fremont’s record. Yet, he has been a consistent presence in the backfield and will look to be a big presence to close out the regular season. Nobody is going forget Moreno’s 407 yard effort in September and against an opponent like the Braves, there is a big chance that Moreno could have another of the area’s best offensive nights in week 9 as he charges through the defense.