It’s midseason for the big school programs in Arizona, and week seven for the smaller squads. You know what that means: it’s time to check in on who’s absolutely dominating on defense. The Arizona Republic just dropped their list of the top defensive players making an impact, and some of these guys are putting up insane numbers, blowing up plays, and generally just making life miserable for offenses across the state.
The Absolute Game Wreckers
When you talk about impact, you gotta start with **Marc Duerson III**, the senior linebacker from Chandler Basha. This dude is a straight-up ball hawk, causing three fumbles already this season, one of which his teammate scooped for a touchdown in their opener against Chandler. He’s a hard hitter with a nose for the ball, and get this: Northern Arizona snagged him with a commitment. What a steal!
Then there’s **Luke Franklin**, the edge rusher from Peoria Centennial. He’s been an absolute problem for offenses every single game. We’re talking 34 solo tackles, 12½ for losses, and a mind-blowing 9½ sacks. Oh, and he’s caused two fumbles too. Good luck trying to block this guy.
Chandler Hamilton is rolling, and their defense is a big reason why. Senior D-lineman **Derrick LeBlanc Jr.** is leading the top-ranked 6A team with 16 tackles for losses and 7½ sacks. He’s not alone though, as Hamilton has *four* defenders on this list. Junior DB **Kacey Allen Jr.** is a ball hawk with incredible instincts, making big tackles and grabbing interceptions. He’s a playmaker, pure and simple.
And don’t sleep on **Tiki Teeples** from Waddell Canyon View. This senior D-lineman is an enforcer up front, always around the ball carrier with 9 tackles for losses and 8 sacks already for the Jaguars.
More Defensive Dominators Making Noise
The talent pool doesn’t stop there. **Brecken Garday**, a junior linebacker from Peoria Liberty, is a tough, hard-nosed player who lives in opposing backfields. Hamilton’s got another playmaker in junior DB **Keaton Fields**, who’s constantly making big plays in the secondary, just like his teammate Allen.
Then you’ve got **Davian Whitener**, the senior edge rusher from Scottsdale Desert Mountain. He dominates the line of scrimmage, quickly finding himself in the backfield with his dynamic moves. **LeGarrette Blount Jr.** from Phoenix Mountain Pointe is an elite two-way junior DB who’s already snagged two interceptions in five games, often matched up against the best athletes out there. He’s got the size, range, and instincts that help him play multiple positions in the secondary.
Goodyear Desert Edge junior edge rusher **Jalanie George** is a monster on the edge, racking up 24 tackles and 5½ for losses. Teams literally try to run away from wherever he lines up. Chandler senior linebacker **Iona Kupu** is a tackling machine with 54 total tackles (30 solo), 7½ for losses, and six quarterback hurries in just five games. And rounding out the list so far is **Jack Andrews**, a defensive end/safety from Tucson Mica Mountain.
These guys are just a taste of the defensive talent tearing it up in Arizona right now. The poll to vote for the best defensive player is open until Tuesday, October 6th, at 6 p.m., so make sure your voice is heard. The second half of the season is gonna be wild watching these studs continue to wreak havoc!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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