While a number of 2022 prospects played big roles in Venice’s 56-34 victory over Miami Northwestern last Friday, several underclassmen proved why they are among the nation’s top recruits in their respective classes.
The best defensive player on the field was Venice DE Damon Wilson. At 6-5 and 250 pounds, Wilson was a beast and presented too much to handle for the Northwestern offensive line. Wilson, a 2023 prospect, holds offers from the likes of Alabama, Clemson, and Florida. After Wilson recorded two sacks and a handful of tackles for loss against Northwestern, it was clear why he holds over a dozen offers from some of the nation’s top programs.
CB Elliot Washington (6-2, 190) was a big reason why Venice was able to hold a very strong Northwestern passing game to just 47 yards in the air. Washington picked up a ton of offers in the offseason. Georgia, Florida, and Oklahoma among others have come calling already. Washington is long, lean, and extremely fast clocking under 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
On the other sideline, Northwestern was led by the 2023 duo of QB Taron Dickens and WR Andy Jean. Dickens, who has been a starter since his freshman season, holds a Coastal Carolina offer and has received some interest from several FBS programs. Size (5-11, 175) is likely the issue, but Dickens can play. He shows good athleticism and a quick release.
Jean is a sleek, smooth, 6-foot-2-inch receiver that holds offers from Georgia and Miami. He has only five total offers though, which is surprising. He is long and lean with good speed which will only improve as he matures. He teamed with Dickens for a handful of completions against a very good Venice defense.
