Regardless of it’s offense or defense, the guys up front are paramount to the success of any team.
Whether they’re clearing the way for runningbacks and protecting their quarterbacks on offense or occupying blockers, making tackles in the backfield or being a quarterback’s nightmare on defense, these guys are known for getting the job done.
One such Jasper rising junior Max Cain, who finished his sophomore year at 6′, 256 lbs. and the quickly developing talent of engaging defenders at the snap.
Cain’s former head coach, Philip Bailey, characterized the lineman as having great potential both at his position and as a leader for the team.
“Max is a big strong kid who comes from a great family,” Bailey said. “He’s a hard worker who plays the game the right way. He was a pleasure to coach and has a bright future in football.”
Here are some of the top lineman who will suit up in the WJLX coverage area this fall.
Braylen Roberts, Jr., Meek
Roberts has the size and speed component to be an elite edge-rusher from the defensive end position or outside linebacker and it showed. Roberts was not only the Tigers’ lead tackler at 7.5 per game, he was the state’s leader in sacks at 24 and registered in the Top 15 nationally. Roberts also showed showed his athleticism in 2022 by lining up on offense and running the ball to good effect at 8.8 yards per carry.
Braxton Jefferson, Sr., Dora
At 6’5, 277 lbs., Jefferson was the size that coaches love and the opposition hates to deal with. The Bulldogs’ offensive line helped the overall unit produce a 1,000-yard rusher and a quarterback that totalled over 3,000 yards multi-purpose yards. If he and his fellow linemen have another year of production like 2022, the 2023 squad could break school records.
Drake Farris, Sr., and Ryan Talley, Sr., Lynn
Farris and Talley not only helped the Bears set a new school record for points on the season in 2022 at 495, they also excelled on defense in a unit that surrendered just 76 points in eight area games. Farris was Lynn’s top tackler and sackmaster at 65 tackles, 14 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks, while Talley followed closely behind with 47 tackles, 8 tackles for a loss and 3.5 sacks.
Other linemen to watch in 2023:
Jack Aderholt, Sr., Sumiton Christian
Charlie Wagar, Sr., Carbon Hill
Braxton Houston, Jr., Jasper
