These players will run the show
It’s a good year for talented running backs in the area with multiple Big Ten recruits topping the list, which includes three from the East Suburban Catholic. There is solid overall depth in the junior and senior class.
1. AJ Henning, Lincoln-Way East, Jr. (5-10, 180)
Henning has undeniable speed and it shows on the field. As a sophomore, he was an integral part of the Griffins’ undefeated run to the Class 8A title. Another year of experience and unmatched speed puts Henning at the top of the list.
2. Nick Fedanzo, Montini, Sr. (6-1, 205)
The Illinois recruit is an athletic prospect who has great size and is quick on his feet, and he has an extra gear when he’s in the open field. Fedanzo should be a major weapon for the Broncos this season.
3. Ty Gavin, Notre Dame, Sr. (5-11, 175)
The East Suburban Catholic player of the year in 2017 rushed for 1,217 yards and 24 touchdowns. Gavin changes direction well and has the strength to shake off defenders.
4. Luke Skokna, Hinsdale Central, Sr. (5-9, 173)
Skokna, who is also a standout at wrestling and track, has high expectations. He’s a natural athlete who brings the physicality of a wrestler and speed of a sprinter to the tailback slot.
5. Devin Blakley, Nazareth, Sr. (5-10, 180)
The Miami (Ohio) recruit is one of the key weapons for the talented Roadrunners. Blakley can spread the field out when the ball is in his hands. He has a high football IQ and is excellent at changing direction.
6. Anthony Williams Jr., Bolingbook, Sr. (6-1, 220)
The Michigan State recruit is a bruiser who isn’t afraid of contact. He’s reliable for short-yardage gains and also has big play capacity. Williams has very good size and
will be a key factor for the Raiders.
7. Leshon Williams, Richards, Jr. (5-10, 195)
Williams, who has several offers, is one of the top returners for the Bulldogs, who have a chance to make some real noise. The junior is a powerful runner who has good speed and footwork. He can take control of a game when he’s in the open field.
8. Keenan Hailey, Joliet Catholic, Sr. (5-10, 190)
Hailey has size, speed, a powerful stride, and the abiltiy to see holes well. He will team up with junior Kenyetta Williams to form one of the area’s most exciting running duos.
9. Kyle Davis, Mount Carmel, Sr. (6-1, 210)
The Western Michigan recruit is a strong downhill runner with good size. Davis is powerful and has excellent footwork to elude traffic.
10. Charles Coleman, Oswego, Sr. (6-2, 230)
Coleman has great size, a high football IQ, and the look and feel of a traditional back. The Panthers can count on the senior in shortyardage situations. He’s a bruiser and complements the offense well.