MPSSAA All-State Defense and Special Teams – First and Second Teams 2023

First Team Defense 

DL Xavier Rivers (Northwest) 6’2 235 SR – Rivers capped off a great career with the Jaguars with an outstanding senior season, producing time after time, and when the Jags needed it the most. Rivers was the key figure in the Jaguars 29-26 win over Quince Orchard in the second round of the playoffs, ending the Cougars 37 game win streak. Rivers was a constant threat at the edge, with great closing speed and an elasticizing wing span. 

Rivers totaled 49 solo tackles this season, 12 assisted tackles, and 21 tackles for loss. Rivers led Montgomery County in tackles for loss. The Jags senior added five sacks, 13 quarterback hurries, three forced fumbles, two safeties, a ‘pick 6’, and three blocked extra point attempts. While an excellent edge rusher, Rivers showed some versatility this season by lining up at inside linebacker and nose tackle, to bolster the Jaguars run defense.  

Rivers delivered three tackles for loss in the Jaguars dominating 47-14 win over Damascus in week two. Rivers totaled six solo tackles including a sack in the Jags 28-0 shutout win over rival Seneca Valley. The Jags star produced seven solo tackles, three tackles for loss, three quarterback hurries, a forced fumble and a sack in the Jaguars 28–13 win over Paint Branch. In the Jaguars regular season loss to Quince Orchard, Rivers blocked two kicks. Rivers produced five tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble, and three pass deflections in the Jags 36-0 opening round playoff win over Seneca Valley.  

Rivers was named the Montgomery County Defensive Player of the Year for 2023, and was named to the Washington Post All-Met second team. Rivers finest moments came in the win over Quince Orchard, with the senior producing ten total tackles, three tackles for loss, a sack, a forced fumble, a blocked extra point, and what turned out to be the game-winning 30 yard ‘pick 6’, that, at the time, gave the Jags a three score lead. Rivers has committed to Yale, and will be an ‘Ivy Leaguer’. 

DL Dominic Nichols (Oakdale) 6’5 245 SR – While Evan Austin and Hunter Thompson were providing fireworks for the state champion Bears on offense, it was Nichols providing the frontal assault on the defensive side of the ball. Nichols punctuated a great three year career with the Bears by delivering a monster season season. The undefeated champions played eight opponents that finished in the MPSSAA Top 50 this season, all who averaged scoring more than 30 points per game. The Bears defense was needed more than it would appear, and Nichols was here for it.  

Nichols presented a mismatch at his edge position, dominating offensive tackles, and putting relentless pressure on opposing quarterbacks and running backs. At 6’5, his size presented as many challenges for opposing passing games as his relentless pass rush did. Nichols even provided his talents on the offensive side of the ball this season, for good measure. The Bears senior is committed to top ranked Michigan, choosing the Wolverines offer over those from Georgia, Penn State, Florida State, Maryland, and 31 others.  

Nichols led the Bears with 48 solo tackles, adding 46 assisted tackles, and producing 28 tackles for loss, which ranked second in the MPSSAA. Nichols totaled 16 sacks and a MPSSAA-best 83 quarterback pressures. The Bears senior added 15 pass break-ups, four forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, that he returned for 58 yards, and an interception that he returned for 28 yards. Nichols threw for a touchdown, ran for a touchdown, and caught a touchdown pass. Nichols also blocked two punts.  

Nichols came up big in the Bears 22-21 opening week win over Milford Mill, producing a team-best four solo tackles, four assisted tackles, two sacks, seven quarterback pressures, three tackles for loss, and a forced fumble. Nichols offered 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, a 38 yard touchdown pass, and a 40 yard reception in the Bears 46-21 win over Allegany. Nichols nabbed four tackles for loss, a sack, and a forced fumble in the Bears 56-6 semifinal win over Oakland Mills. Nichols totaled a team-best ten tackles in the Bears title game victory.  

DL Ronald Hull (Wise) 6’2 275 SR – Hull was a lynchpin on the Pumas defensive line for three seasons, starting since he was a sophomore for the now six-time state champions. Hull not only clogged the middle running lanes, but often made opposing centers and guards a part of the backfield shortly after the snap. While the Pumas have boated a litany of super-talented skill players over the last 15 seasons, it’s been their defense that has led them to six 4A state championships, and that was no different this year, with Hull leading the charge.  

Hull was the centerpiece of a Pumas defense that allowed only 5.4 points per game versus their 12 MPSSAA opponents this season, registering eight shutouts in those 12 games, including their state title victory. Only one MPSSAA opponent reached at least half of their scoring average versus the Pumas – Eleanor Roosevelt, who scored 16 in their 22-16 week two loss to the Pumas, and 21 in their 62-21 loss to the eventual champion in the semifinals.  

Hull provided 27 solo tackles and 14 assisted tackles this season, including 20.5 tackles for loss. Hull added six sacks, five forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and a blocked kick. In their week two win over Eleanor Roosevelt, Hull totaled a sack, a tackle for loss, and blocked a Raiders field goal attempt. In the Pumas win over Oxon Hill, Hull produced three tackles for loss, two sacks, and forced a fumble, and in a win over Laurel, forced three fumbles, recovered one, and added three tackles for loss and a sack. 

Hull’s success continued into the post-season, where he recorded 8.5 tackles for loss in four post-season games. In the Pumas 42-14 win over Walter Johnson, Hull recorded 3.5 tackles for loss and a sack. In the Pumas semifinal win over Roosevelt, Hull tallied four solo tackles, two tackles for loss, and forced a fumble. In three seasons, Hull registered 83 solo tackles, 60 tackles for loss, 18.5 sacks, and forced nine fumbles. Hull finishes his career as a state champion, and with a 35-4 record as a starter. Hull was named the Prince Georges County 4A Defensive Player of the Year. Hull is committed to Akron.  

DL Xavier Gilliam (Quince Orchard) 6’3 265 – After transferring from Wilde Lake for his senior season, Gilliam became the Cougars most dominant player in the defensive side of the ball, and playing much of the season on the inside, after playing end and on the edge for the Wildecats. Gilliam did move around on the line, but wherever he lined up, he was penetrating and throwing running backs around like rag dolls. Gilliam was named to the Washington Post All-Met first team, one of only four MPSSAA players selected to the first team among the twelve players chosen.  

Gilliam joined Jaylen Harvey on the Cougars defensive front, giving the two-time defending champions a pair of high ‘D1’ recruits on the defensive line. Both were outstanding when they played, leading the Cougars to five shutouts in ten games, and holding seven of ten opponents to seven points or less. The Cougars shut out 10-3 South Lake (VA), 9-2 Gaithersburg, and 11-2 Churchill. The latter two boasted the top pair in the MPSSAA this season in rushing yards per game.  

In ten games, Gilliam led the Cougars with 24 solo tackles, added 18 assisted tackles, and a team-leading 17 tackles for loss and six sacks. The Cougars allowed only 32.1 rushing yards per game, and just 1.33 yards per carry. The Cougars stopped 74.7% of their opponents third down conversions, and 19 of 25 fourth down conversions. Despite the loss to arch rival Northwest in the second round, the Cougars boasted one of the five best defensive units in the MPSSAA. Gilliam is headed to Happy Valley, where he’ll join Harvey.  

LB Kamari Loving (North Point) 5’11 222 SR – Loving was dominant in his two years with the Eagles, helping lead a defensive unit that was one of the two or three best in the MPSSAA in each of the last two seasons. A true ‘Mike’ linebacker, Loving was a hard-hitting sure tackler for the Eagles, leading the team in total tackles, solo tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks in each of the last two seasons. The Eagles allowed only 4.1 points per game, and held 12 of 14 opponents to one touchdown or less.  

With Loving at middle linebacker, the Eagles won 24 games in two seasons, advancing to the state championship game in both seasons, and winning it all in ‘22. In 28 games over the last two seasons, the Eagles allowed only 6.4 points per game, and shut out 13 of their last 19 opponents, allowing only 3.7 points per game in that span. And Loving and senior defensive tackle Kendall Carter, a fellow two-time MPSSAA selection, were in the middle of it all. 

A year after registering 67 solo tackles and 109 total tackles as a junior, Loving raised the bar even further in his senior campaign, recording 80 solo tackles, 49 assisted tackles, and 17 tackles for loss. Loving also added five sacks, two pass break-ups, and a forced fumble for the 13-1 Eagles. Loving was named the SMAC Defensive Player of the Year for the second year in a row, and was named to the Washington Post’s All-Met first team. The Eagles senior holds offers from Charlotte, Pittsburgh, and Boston College.  

LB Anthony Campbell (Dunbar) 6’1 235 SR – Campbell was the ‘heart and soul’ of the 13-time state champion Poets defensive unit, a year after providing the key play in the 2/1A title game with an 87 yard ‘pick 6’ in the final minutes that turned the game on its head. Campbell led a ‘23 Poets defensive unit that lost nine starters to graduation from their 2022 state championship team, but the senior middle linebacker provided coach Michael Carter Sr and the Poets a mainstay in the middle, with leadership skills to bring the unit up to the Poets standards.  

Campbell headlined a defense that held nine of their eleven opponents to seven points or less, and allowed only 6.5 points per game. In week two, the Poets shutout high-powered City College, 60-0, a team that averaged 33.7 points per game and set a handful of MPSSAA single-season passing and receiving records. In the state title game, the Poets blanked then 12-1 Calvert, who came in averaging scoring 34.9 points per game.  

Campbell led the Poets with 59 solo tackles and 16 assisted tackles in 11 games this season. Campbell provided nine tackles for loss and four forced fumbles, including a game-clinching punch in their 20-18 win over fellow state champion Mervo, with the Mustangs inside the ten yard line. Campbell totaled seven solo tackles, three assisted tackles, and two tackles for loss in the shutout win over City College.  

A year after making the biggest play in the state title game, Campbell came up big again when the lights were its brightest this December. Campbell supplied a team-best four solo tackles, three assisted tackles, and two tackles for loss in the 8-0 win over Calvert. But, his biggest play may have been when he was called on to punt in the fourth quarter, and the Poets at midfield, up a score. Campbell nailed a 42 yard punt that put the Cavaliers on their own three yard line. It was too much for the Cavaliers to overcome against the Poets. Two big plays, two one score games, two state titles.  

LB Tre Hunley (Mervo) 6’3 195 SR – Hunley manned the middle linebacker position for the formidable Mustangs defense, a unit that ushered the ‘Stangs to their second state championship in three seasons. The Mustangs defense registered eight shutouts this season, and allowed only 4.7 points per game. While the Mustangs have had two great quarterbacks and a variety of playmakers around them during their two title runs, the Mustangs defense has been the ‘heart and soul’ of their championship teams.  

Henley recorded a team-best 76 solo tackles and 60 assisted tackles this season, including six tackles for loss. Henley also forced two fumbles. Henley was the Mustangs most reliable tackler, a sure thing at the second level who displayed great instincts reading out plays. Henley was great pass coverage too, recording two interceptions, including a ‘pick 6’, and adding four pass break ups.  

Hunley was instrumental in limiting crossing routes by the prolific City College passing game, helping limit the Knights to 12 points, with nine tackles and two pass break-ups. The Mustangs shutout 11-2 Forest Park. Only two of the Mustangs last 13 opponents scored more than a touchdown on them – Dunbar, who scored three, and City, who scored two. In their final three games, the Mustangs limited 9-3 Suitland to six points, shutout 12-1 Perry Hall, and held North Point to seven points in the state championship game.  

DB Braydon Lee (Flowers) 6’1 163 SR – Lee was one of the most talented cornerbacks to play in the MPSSAA in this century, and the four star recruit had two dozen ‘Power 5’ offers to prove it. Lee was a lockdown corner in coverage, and more than capable open field tackler in the run game. Lee headlined a secondary on a unit that was arguably the best defense in the MPSSAA. A year after earning MPSSAA All-State second team honors and All-Met second team honors as a junior, Lee lands on both the MPSSAA All-State first team and All-Met first team this season.  

The Jaguars allowed a paltry 3.6 points per game in ten games this season, and shut out seven of ten opponents. The Jags defensive unit allowed only two touchdowns in ten games, and suffered their only loss on the field, a 17-14 overtime thriller with league rival Wise, with their defense not allowing the Pumas a touchdown. Lee garnered 30 college offers, from the likes of Alabama, Georgia, and Ohio State, but dipped an original commitment to South Carolina to Maryland in December.  

In ten games, Lee produced three interceptions, including a ‘pick 6’, and totaled five pass break-ups. What isn’t tallied is the amount of times the opposing ‘WR1’ couldn’t get the ball thrown to him, because he was blanketed by Lee. The Jaguars allowed just two passing touchdowns in ten games, limiting opposing quarterbacks to a 38.5% completion percentage, and yielded only 3.7 yards per pass attempt. With Lee at cornerback, the Jaguars went 33-4 on the gridiron over the last three seasons, won a county title, and made the program’s first state title game appearance.  

DB Mason Farstar (Linganore) 5’11 195 SR – Farster was the leader of the 3A finalist Lancers defense – a hard-hitting, playmaking safety that helped lead the six-time state champions to a 12-2 record and their fifth 3A title game appearance in the last six post-seasons. Farstar was a punishing tackler that used physicality on both running backs and potential receivers. Farstar was a three year varsity player and a part of two state finalist teams and a pair of 12-win teams.  

While the Lancers offense received most of the headlines, with the Frederick all-time leading rusher Ethan Arneson leading the ground game, and Bucknell commit Christian Petruzello at quarterback, the Lancers defense was stellar, save for a shootout win over Franklin, and the state championship shootout loss with  undefeated Oakdale. The Lancers held the state champion Bears to a season-low 21 points in their 21-14 week four loss to the Bears. The Lancers limited Walkersville to 12 points and shutout Middletown. The Lancers only allowed one touchdown in each of their first three playoff games.  

Farstar led the Lancers with 43 solo tackles and 50 assisted tackles, and forced two fumbles. Farstar also picked off five interceptions that totaled 145 return yards, including a ‘pick 6’. Farstar added three rushing touchdowns on offense. Farstar was named to the All-Frederick County first team for a second year in a row.  

DB Michael Nwaogwugwu (Gaithersburg) 5’11 165 SR – Nwaogwugwu was a three-phase star for the Trojans, helping lead his team to the second best season in 20 years for their program, and finishing 9-2. Nwaogwugwu was a menace in the secondary, foiling passing games with lockdown coverage and outstanding playmaking ability. At receiver, Nwaogwugwu was a threat down field or in the ‘jet’, and contributed on all special teams units. 

Nwaogwugwu intercepted six passes this season, returning the half dozen for 242 yards and three touchdowns. Nwaogwugwu  added nine pass break ups. On offense, Nwaogwugwu provided ten plays of 20 yards or more in the Trojans run-heavy offense, led by Wisconsin commit Gideon Ituka. On special teams, Nwaogwugwu returned two kicks for 50 yards or more, and blocked both an extra point and a punt. 

Nwaogwugwu nabbed three interceptions in the Trojans impressive 35-21 win over Sherwood, returning one for a touchdown, and added a tackle for loss and a 25 yard run on his only carry. Versus Rockville and All-State receiver Joshua Burnette Jr, the Trojans senior held the Rams star to 20 receiving yards, and totaled six pass break ups. To add, Nwaogwugwu scored on a 65 yard run. Nwaogwugwu supplied 106 yards of offense in the Trojans 48-37 win over Richard Montgomery. Nwaogwugwu holds an offer from Howard.  

DB Roger Jones Jr (Huntingtown) 6’0 190 SR – Jones was an ultra-talented two-way weapon for the 2A state finalist Hurricanes, serving as one of the best receiving threats in the MPSSAA, while also offering some of the best all-around skills in the secondary for the Canes. Few scored more touchdowns on fewer touches than the Air Force commit did. Jones Jr was the Hurricanes top offensive threat, and a sure tackling safety, who was great in coverage.  

In twelve games, Jones Jr caught 41 passes for 894 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging 21.8 yards per reception. Jones tied for the fourth most touchdown receptions in the MPSSAA, and ranked third in yards per receptions among receivers with 40 receptions or more. On the defensive side, Jones Jr produced 80 tackles, four for loss, three interceptions, and eight pass break ups. Jones was named to the All-SMAC first team at both wide receiver and defensive back, and was named to the Washington Post’s All-Met second team at defensive back.  

The Hurricanes senior caught six passes for 216 yards and two touchdowns in a 41-31 week two loss to Patuxent, adding ten tackles. Jones Jr caught four passes for 80 yards and two touchdowns in a 26-7 win over Northern in the regular season finale. Jones Jr was the key factor in the Canes 35-21 win over Kent Island in the quarterfinals, catching seven passes for 91 yards and scoring three touchdowns, while adding an interception on defense. A week later, Jones Jr contributed an interception, a tackle for loss, and three pass break ups in their 27-7 quarterfinal win over Walkersville. In the Canes 21-13 loss to Decatur in the state final, Jones Jr shared team-high honors in solo tackles, with five, and picked off an interception for the third post-season game in a row.  

ATH TiJuan Reed (Forest Park) 5’10 175 JR – Reed has been a catalyst in the Foresters rapid emergence among the best small school programs in the MPSSAA, building on a tremendous sophomore campaign with an outstanding junior season. Reed was a two-way star for the 2/1A semifinalists – performing as one of the top running backs in the MPSSAA, and doubling as a hybrid tackler on the Foresters impressive defensive unit. 

Reed finished sixth in the MPSSAA in rushing yards, with 1,570, and tied for seventh in touchdowns, with 24. Reed finished second only to Fort Hill’s Jabril Daniels in rushing yards in the MPSSAA among underclassmen, and third in touchdowns, behind Daniels and Wise’s DeCarlos Young. Reed also registered 322 receiving yards, giving him 1,892 yards from scrimmage. On defense, Reed posted 56 tackles, six tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, and a ‘pick 6’.  

Reed scored on three touches in a win over Ben Franklin, taking two carries for scores and returning a ‘pick 6’. Reed rushed for 144 yards and scored two touchdowns in the Foresters 12-9 quarterfinal win over Winters Mill, adding three solo tackles. Reed rushed for 119 yards and two scores in the Foresters heartbreaking 17-14 loss to Calvert in the semifinals. The Foresters were trailing eventual state champion Mervo 6-0 in the fourth quarter of their matchup, before taking a 20-0 loss. Reed and the Foresters will look to build on this season in 2024.  

ATH Gavin Solito (Decatur) 5’7 170 SR – Solito was a complete ‘gamer’ for the state champion Seahawks, lining up as one of the best slot receivers in the MPSSAA, and serving as a safety-linebacker hybrid on defense, and leading the state champions in tackles. Solito made big plays on both sides of the ball, in the biggest games. Seahawks coach Jake Coleman said of Solito “I haven’t coached a better player”. That’s saying something, considering all of the greats Coleman has coached, including his son Brycen, a three-time All-Bayside honoree, two-time OPOY, and headed to Vanderbilt. For his work this season, Solito was named the Bayside Conference Two-Way Player of the Year.  

As a slot receiver, Solito grabbed 30 receptions from Coleman for 465 yards, averaging 15.5 yards per reception, with seven touchdown receptions. On defense, Solito produced 36 solo tackles and 76 assisted tackles, including six tackles for loss. Solito added six sacks, three forced fumbles, two interceptions, a fumble recovery, a blocked punt, and a blocked extra point. There wasn’t much Solito didn’t do.  

 Solito totaled 11 tackles, forced a fumble, and scored a touchdown in the Seahawks 33-15 win over Kent Island. The Seahawks senior amassed 12 solo tackles and five assisted tackles in the Seahawks 35-34 semifinal win over defending champ Milford Mill, including three tackles for loss, but maybe more importantly, blocked an extra point in a one point win. In the state title game, Solito forced two fumbles, registered six solo tackles and 11 assisted tackles, added a sack and a tackle for loss, and provided five receptions for 57 yards.  

Special Teams First Team 

K Keith Baker (Calvert) 6’0 160 SR – Baker was all but perfect for the Cavaliers this season, setting up the defense with outstanding kickoffs and touchbacks, and missing just three scoring opportunities on 52 placekicking attempts. Baker kicked at least one field goal and made all of his extra point attempts in three wins decided by ten points or less for the state finalists. When Baker wasn’t pinning opponents back on kickoffs, the Cavs senior was doing so on punts. 

Baker converted 44 of 45 extra point attempts, for a 97.8% success rate. Baker also converted five of seven field goal attempts, with a long of 42 yards. Baker produced 29 touchbacks on 66 kickoffs, and averaged 34.4 yards per punt, with ten downed inside the opponents twenty yard line.  

Heading into the Cavaliers week five showdown with defending champion North Point, Baker had hit on all 21 extra point attempts, and two of three field goal attempts, before delivering a 37 yard field goal and converting his one extra point in the Cavs 20-10 loss. Baker nailed his 42 yard field goal in the Cavaliers 16-6 win over state finalist Huntingtown. Baker hit both of his extra point attempts and made his one field goal attempt in their 19-14 win over Patuxent.  

P Matt Hauptman (Linganore) 5’10 180 SR – Hauptman was a vital ingredient to the Lancers success this season, serving as a huge asset to the defense with his outstanding punting performance, while also serving as the 3A finalists top receiving threat. Hauptman led the MPSSAA in punting average. 

Hauptman averaged 41.1 yards per punt, putting eight of 21 punts inside the opponents 20 yard line. In the state title game loss to Oakdale, Hauptman punted three times, allowing only a total of four punt return yards on the three punts. Hauptman ranked second in Frederick County in touchdown receptions, with eight, and averaged 26.9 yards per catch on 14 receptions.  

KR Newton Essiam (Frederick) 5’11 175 SR – Essiam was a three-way weapon for the Cadets, and a scoring and big play threat every time he touched the ball. On offense, he paired with classmate Davian Pryor as one of the best downfield receiving tandems in the MPSSAA, as well as one of the best secondary duos on defense, all while leading the MPSSAA in return yards.  

Essiam produced a total of 647 kickoff and punt return yards on a total of 17 returns, returning three for touchdowns and having another two called back on penalties. Essiam took 12 kickoff returns for 463 yards, for an astounding 38.6 kickoff return yard average, returning two for touchdowns. Essiam also averaged 36.8 return yards on five punt returns, scoring on one.  

Essiam added 305 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns on 20 touches on offense, and 31 solo tackles, 47 total tackles, four interceptions, nine pass break-ups, and two forced fumbles on defense. The Cadets senior totaled 759 return yards, including 112 on the four interceptions. Essiam produced 1,064 yards and ten touchdowns on 41 touches in all this season. Essiam is committed to Villanova.  

Defense Second Team 

DL TJ Wilkerson (Mervo) 5’9 240 SR – Wilkerson was a key element in the Mustangs defensive unit, one that led to their second 4/3A state title in three seasons. Wilkerson not only plugged the middle, the 5’9 240 senior got into the backfield and made plays. The Mustangs allowed a paltry 4.7 points per game, and registered eight shutouts, with Wilkerson in the middle of it all.  

Wilkerson led the Mustangs with 12 sacks, adding 14 tackles for loss. Wilkerson recorded 39 solo tackles and 50 assisted tackles, and forced two fumbles. The Mustangs defense was outstanding down the stretch, holding then 9-2 Suitland to six points in the quarterfinal, followed by a shutout over then 12-0 Perry Hall in the semifinals, then holding then 13-0 North Point to seven points in the title game.  

DL Favor Bate (Eleanor Roosevelt) 6’2 242 SR – Bate was dominant this season across the defensive line for the Raiders this season, lining up in every position across the line. The Raiders advanced to the 4A state semifinals for the first time since 2003. Bate was named to the Prince Georges County 4A All-County first team. 

Bate led the Raiders with 56 solo tackles and 20 assisted tackles. Bate ranked among the top five in the county in sacks, with 11, and top ten in tackles for loss, with 16. Bate also recorded two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery. While the Raiders saw Wise run away from them in the semifinals, they did hold the eventual 4A champs to their third lowest point total of the season in a 22-16 loss to the Pumas in week two. The Raiders held then 6-1 Suitland to two points in week eight.  

Bate registered four solo tackles and five assisted tackles, including two for loss in the Raiders week two loss to Wise. Bate recorded six solo tackles, three assisted tackles, two tackles for loss, and three sacks in the win over Suitland. Bate holds an offer from Temple.  

DL Nate Bedell (North County) 6’3 215 SR – Bedell was a standout for the 4-6 Knights, a two-way threat that had an outstanding season at the edge. While the Knights didn’t get past the first round of the playoffs, Bedell’s production outshined most that played two, three, or four games more. Bedell was named to the Anne Arundel County first team, and honored on the Washington Post All-Met honorable mention team.  

Bedell totaled 62 tackles, which included a county-best 25 tackles for loss. Bedell added 11 sacks, eight pass break ups, one forced fumble, and one blocked kick. On offense, Bedell supplied 592 yards from scrimmage, and scored three touchdowns. Bedell recorded seven tackles and two tackles for loss in a loss to Old Mill. The Knights senior registered six sacks in a 40-30 win over Severna Park.  

Versus 4A state finalist Broadneck, Bedell totaled four solo tackles, six assisted tackles, a tackle for loss, two quarterback hurries, a sack, and a pass break up. On offense, Bedell rushed for 107 yards on three carries, including a 55 yard scoring run. The Knights senior rushed for 172 yards and a touchdown in their 33-13 win over South River in the regular season finale. In the season-ending playoff loss to Old Mill, Bedell recorded 11 tackles, including six for loss.  

DL Kendall Carter (North Point) 6’2 275 SR – Carter was a stalwart on the Eagles for three seasons, starting on both sides of the line in each of his sophomore, junior, and senior campaigns. Carter was instrumental in the Eagles success over the last three seasons, opening holes at guard in their powerful running game, and as a ground game killer at defensive tackle for one of the best defensive units in the MPSSAA.  

Carter produced 68 tackles this season, including 15 tackles for loss, adding seven sacks and a forced fumble. The Eagles allowed just 4.07 points per game this season, with only one opponent scoring more than 14 points in any of the Eagles 14 games – Frederick, who lost by 36 (56-20). Carter is committed to Merrimack College.  

With Carter starting on both sides of the ball, the Eagles won 31 games over the last three seasons, winning a state championship as a junior, and falling just short of Mervo in this year’s 4/3A state title game. The Eagles registered a MPSSAA-best nine shutouts this season, and 15 blank sheets over the last two seasons. Carter was named to the All-SMAC first team for a second year in a row, and earned All-Met second team honors by the Washington Post for his offensive line play.  

LB Kendric Council (Flowers) 6’1 225 SR – Council was a leader for a Jaguars defensive unit that ranked among the top few in the MPSSAA in each of the last two seasons, and a unit that allowed only two offensive touchdowns this season. Council was a MPSSAA All-State second team selection in 2022, and repeats this season, with the Jaguars abbreviated season severely limiting his reps, due to the amount of Jaguars blowout wins, and a post-season that ended abruptly.  

Still, Council repeated as the Jaguars top tackler on the defensive side of the ball this season, though fellow All-State linebacker Nasir Smith led the team overall, with the addition of his special teams prowess. Council was named to the Prince Georges 4A All-County first team for a second year in a row, and was named to the Washington Post’s All-Met honorable mention team.  

Council was part of a defensive core that went 33-4 as starters, one that snapped Wise’s 71 game winning streak versus county foes, and one that won the PG4A title in ‘22, and helped usher in the Jaguars program as one of the most formidable in the MPSSAA. And, leading the program to a 33-4 record and all of that success over the last three seasons was the defense, with Council starting at linebacker. Council holds offers from Maryland, Charlotte, Nebraska, and James Madison, among others.  

LB Giuseppe Mellinger (Kent Island) 5’9 185 SR – Mellinger was a menace to the opposing offensive units the Buccaneers faced this season, earning him Bayside Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors. Mellinger was the defensive leader for the 9-3 Buccaneers, and a tackling machine. Mellinger was a three year starter for the Buccaneers, with the Bucs winning 31 games over that span.  

Mellinger totaled a team-best 95 tackles this season, including 20 tackles for loss and eight sacks. Mellinger also led the Buccaneers with four forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Mellinger was a two-time All-Bayside first team selection at linebacker. Mellinger finished as the Buccaneers all-time leading tackler, with 278.  

LB Nasir Smith (Flowers) 6’0 205 SR – Smith displayed reckless pursuit toward ball carriers and kick returners for the Jaguars this season, leading the team in overall tackles and special teams tackles. Smith teamed with Kendric Council to form an outstanding linebacking duo for the Jags, who allowed just two offensive touchdowns all season. The Jaguars were thought to be title contenders, before their season came to a halt for using an ineligible player.  

Nonetheless, Smith was the leading tackler for what was arguably the best defense in the MPSSAA. Smith also contributed seven tackles for loss and two sacks, to go with seven special teams tackles. The Jaguars didn’t allow an offensive touchdown in their 17-14 overtime loss to 4A state champion Wise, the only time this season the Pumas offensive unit didn’t score a touchdown. Smith produced two tackles for loss in defeat.  

Smith was a ringleader of a team that produced seven shutouts in ten games and allowed a MPSSAA-best 3.6 points per game. Smith was named to the Prince Georges 4A All-County first team, joining Council.  

DB Elisha West (Quince Orchard) 5’11 180 SR – West and his younger brother Ayden formed half of one of the best secondaries in the MPSSAA, playing for the 4A two-time defending state champion Cougars. The West brothers were part of one of the best defensive units in the MPSSAA, and both were selected to the Montgomery County 4A All-County first team. Elisha was also selected to the Washington Post All-Met honorable mention team.  

West tied for fourth on the formidable Cougars defense in solo tackles, and was a force against both the run and pass. While receiving post-season honors as a safety, West was one of the best kick returners in the state. West finished with four interceptions, nine tackles for loss, one ‘pick 6’, six pass break-ups, and three fumble recoveries.  

In the Cougars season-ending loss to Northwest, West scored on a 60 yard kickoff return, picked off two interceptions for 47 return yards, recovered a fumble, and made four tackles. West, who was selected to the Washington Post’s All-Met honorable mention team, is committed to Merrimack College, choosing the Warriors offer over those from Bucknell and Marshall, among others.  

DB Raevon Johnson (Wise) 6’3 170 SR – Johnson was a lock-down cornerback for the 4A state champion Pumas, taking a top receiver out of the action time and time again. Johnson was also a playmaker, scoring three touchdowns on defense for the six-time champions. Defense has been a cornerstone of the Pumas success, and this year’s title run was no different.  

Together with All-State athlete DeCarlos Young, All-State defensive lineman Ronald Hull, and fellow All-State defensive back Teon Lavender, among others, the Pumas offered one of the best defensive units in the MPSSAA, one that held Broadneck scoreless in the title game.  

Johnson produced 28 solo tackles and 16 assisted tackles at cornerback, with three tackles for loss. Johnson nabbed four interceptions for 133 return yards, returning three for touchdowns. Johnson posted eight pass break ups, a fumble recovery, and a blocked punt. Johnson produced three solo tackles and five assisted tackles in the Pumas 17-14 win over Flowers, adding a 43 yard interception return. Johnson made four tackles, including one for loss, and picked off an interception in the Pumas 42-14 quarterfinal win over Walter Johnson.  

DB Brayden DeWaal (Oakdale) 6’0 165 JR – DeWaal was a versatile safety for the undefeated state champion Bears, one that could deliver the blitz from the edge, offer elite pass coverage, and make the open field tackle. To add, the junior came up big in the biggest of games, versus some of the best offensive units in the MPSSAA.  

DeWaal produced 67 tackles this season, including 33 solo tackles and 7.5 tackles for loss. A playmaker, the junior totaled four interceptions, four fumble recoveries, four sacks, two forced fumbles, 12 quarterback hurries, eight pass break ups, and scored two defensive touchdowns.  

DeWall took a ‘pick 6’ 61 yards in the Bears one point win over Milford Mill in the opener, adding a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. The Bears junior recovered a fumble in the Bears 21-14 win over Linganore in week four. DeWaal came up with an interception and two pass break ups in the Bears state semifinal win over City College, holding the Black Knights scoreless over the last three quarters. In the state final, DeWall was all over, producing 2.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and five quarterback pressures.  

DB Kamari Williams (Mervo) 6’0 170 SR – Williams was a dynamic playmaker in the Mustangs secondary, a turnover manufacturer. The Mustangs were dominant this season, causing opponents to have to go to the air early and often. The Mustangs were built for it, with Williams, Kasir Hicks, and the rest of the secondary deeming it fruitless for any opponent’s passing game.  

Williams totaled 34 tackles this season, including five tackles for loss. The Mustangs senior produced a team-best six interceptions, including a ‘pick 6’, and added seven pass break-ups.  

The Mustangs defense allowed only seven touchdowns over their last 13 games, and produced eight shutouts. The ‘Stangs allowed only three passing touchdowns all season. In winning their second 4/3A state title in three seasons, the Mustangs allowed Suitland, Perry Hall, and North Point, to a total of 13 points between them in their final three games. Those three teams had a cumulative record of 34-2 entering their matchups with the Mustangs.  

ATH Julien Horton (Bel Air) 6’1 175 JR – Horton was not only one of the busiest receivers in the MPSSAA this season, but a notable safety, a threat in the kick return game, and could provide running power when needed. The talented junior ranked fifth in the MPSSAA in receptions per game, threw for a touchdown, produced a 100 yard game on the ground, and returned a kickoff for a touchdown.  

Horton caught 65 passes for 696 yards and eight touchdowns this season, and ranked sixth in receptions. Horton rushed for 114 yards and a touchdown in the Bobcats 22-21 win over UCBAC Susquehanna champ Patterson Mill. On defense, Horton contributed 32 solo tackles and an interception. Horton threw a touchdown pass in a win over Elkton, and returned a kickoff 60 yards for a score in the Cats 22-0 opening round win over Overlea. 

Horton caught 11 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown in the Bobcats opening week 22-21 win over Fallston. A week later Horton recorded seven receptions for 94 yards and two touchdowns in a 18-14 win over North Hagerstown. Horton caught nine passes for 101 yards in a loss to league champ Edgewood. Horton caught a touchdown pass and added five solo tackles in the Bobcats season-ending 38-26 loss to City College. Horton was named the Aegis Player of the Year.   

ATH Corey Costner (Perry Hall) 6’1 185 JR – Costner has been a highly skilled two-way star for the Gators over the last two seasons, with another season ahead of him. Costner helped lead the Gators to their first county division title in ten years, and with a 12-1 record, the only blemish a one score loss to eventual state champion Mervo. After being a catalyst for the Gators during his sophomore campaign, Costner continued to make big plays on both sides of the ball this season. 

Costner led the Gators in receiving for a second year in a row, grabbing 39 receptions for 709 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 18.2 yards per reception. At safety, Costner made 28 tackles, nabbed three interceptions, including a ‘pick 6’, added four pass pass break ups, forced a fumble, and picked up a fumble recovery. On special teams, Costner blocked a punt, blocked an extra point, and returned a kickoff 73 yards.  

In the Gators 14-7 win over Dundalk, Costner caught three passes for 51 yards, and added four tackles, including one for loss in the win. Costner posted the same receiving numbers in their 24-20 win over Milford Mill – three receptions for 51 yards, and added three tackles and the game-winning ‘pick 6’. Costner caught five passes for 83 yards and two touchdowns in the Gators 34-20 quarterfinal win over Leonardtown, adding three solo tackles. Costner grabbed an interception in the Gators 6-0 semifinal loss to Mervo.  

Special Teams Second Team 

K Jason Roberts (Fallston) 6’0 155 SR – Roberts was phenomenal this season for the Cougars, who advanced to the state quarterfinals. Roberts led the MPSSAA in field goals, and missed just one extra point all season.  

Roberts converted eight of eleven field goal attempts, including three of 40 yards or more. Roberts also converted 29 of 30 extra point attempts, and punted 19 times for an average of 32.4 yards per punt. Roberts was selected to the All-Aegis first team as a kicker. 

P Chris Coleman (Broadneck) 6’1 190 SR – Coleman finished an outstanding career with the Bruins, the last in a litany of legendary kickers in the program. Coleman was a vital part of the Bruins success, both in the kicking and punting games. In ‘22, Coleman set an MPSSAA single-season record for field goals, with 14. 

At punter this season, Coleman averaged 35.8 yards per punt, and placed 13 of his 32 punts inside the 20 yard line. Coleman had one extra point blocked, but hit on all of his other 49 attempts. Coleman converted four of six field goal attempts, including a 44 yarder in the Bruins 31-7 semifinal win over Churchill. In the state final loss to Wise, Coleman punted four times for a 36.8 yard average, and pinning one inside the 20 yard line.  

KR Jaderon Thompson (Queen Anne’s County) 5’9 148 FR – Thompson was extraordinary as a return man this season, and as a three-way standout. Thompson was the most productive freshman in the MPSSAA this season. Thompson produced 1,289 total yards this season and scored nine touchdowns, including four on a total of 14 kickoff and punt returns.  

While teams learned to kick away from the young Thompson,  the freshman returned nine kickoffs for 368 yards and three touchdowns, for an MPSSAA-best 40.9 yards per return (8 min.). Thompson also returned five punts for 121 yards and a touchdown, averaging 24.2 yards per return. In all, Thompson totaled 489 kickoff and punt return yards on 14 touches. On offense, the Lions freshman caught 37 passes for 635 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 17.2 yards per reception, adding 100 rushing yards and a score on 12 rushing attempts. On defense, Thompson produced four interceptions, including one in their season-ending playoff loss to eventual state champion Decatur.