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FOOTBALL: 2024 RSN’s 1st Team All-Area

Here is the 1st Team All-Area from the 2024 football season!

OFFENSE

Noah Ehrlich | Senior | Quarterback | Crown Point

STATS: 2,194 passing yards, 26 total TDs, 4 turnovers

Long story short, it was quite the ride for Noah Ehrlich at the high school level. From the get go, the now-senior began his preps career under center at Hobart for his first two seasons, becoming the first freshman QB to start for the Brickies since way back when.

Right then and there, expectations were certainly high, but Ehrlich found ways to live up to them, if not exceeded. The Miami (OH) commit started in all of his 51 career high school games. That is not easy to do, and he just seemed to get better every Friday night. 

Now looking at these past two seasons at Crown Point, there are certainly a lot of names to point the finger at for CP’s recent success – but the two time DAC Offensive Player of the Year’s name might be near the top of the list. The signal caller put up similar numbers to last year’s campaign, while only playing in a fraction of the games due to the starters being pulled in already-decided games.  

It may not have been the storybook ending that the Crown Point faithful wanted, but it is difficult to neglect all the positives that derived from most specifically these past two seasons with Ehrlich under center. The recent All-State selection and Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year award winner will head to Miami Ohio next fall.

Caiden Verrett | Senior | Running Back | Hanover Central

STATS: 179 carries, 1,506 rushing yards, 8.4 yards per carry, 34 total touchdowns, 19 punts, 35.2 yards per punt

The NCC Offensive Player of the Year followed up his breakout 2023 season with a memorable senior campaign – capping off what has been a tremendous career for the Wildcats.

A first team All-Area selection for us last year, Verrett once again showed his versatility and overall value to this Hanover Central program. A team that graduated its winningest senior class last fall, it became Verrett’s team – as he led them to a share of the NCC title. From pinning teams back with his punts, to flipping the field on kickoff or punt returns of his own, to doing his typical duty as the lead back – a player like Verrett will certainly be missed throughout the Wildcat program.

The senior do-it-all back finishes his career with 77 total touchdowns and over 5,000 all-purpose yards. He now will gear up for what is hopefully a successful baseball season for him and the Wildcats – a sport that he is talented at as well.

Samir Del Rio | Senior | Wide Receiver | Boone Grove

STATS: 961 receiving yards, 65 receptions, 14 total touchdowns, 47 tackles, 2 interceptions

From all of the productivity that has graduated from last year’s Boone Grove squad, specifically in the offensively important positions of wide receiver – someone needed to step up. But calling Samir Del Rio’s senior season a “step up” is a bit of an understatement.

Boone Grove certainly likes to throw the football, as we saw last year with its explosiveness with a quarterback like Mark Rowland. Five receivers from the 2023 squad had over 500 receiving yards. They were all seniors.

Del Rio had a respectable 2023, but nearly tripled his season total in both receiving yards and total touchdowns. Although he was selected to All-State as a defensive back, Del Rio nearly led the area wire-to-wire in receiving yards this season.

 

Bryce Compton | Senior | Wide Receiver | Wheeler

STATS: 47 receptions, 935 receiving yards, 19.9 yards per catch, 8 total touchdowns, 45 total tackles, 3 interceptions

In what has grown to become an exciting offense and an overall program to watch in the Wheeler Bearcats, having a weapon like Bryce Compton surely makes things a little bit easier.

Following up his All-Area season in 2023, he bested nearly all of his receiving statistics in his senior year. Alongside his impact offensively and defensively, Compton was also the punter for the Bearcats, averaging 34.6 yards a punt.

The All-Conference selected senior, like others from smaller schools, become essential building blocks over the course of their career. As one who played all three phases of the game for multiple seasons, the Bearcats graduate a good one moving forward. Compton will now get ready for what has already been an exciting career on the track for the Bearcats.

Lebron Hill | Senior | Wide Receiver | Morton

STATS: 700 receiving yards, 1000+ all purpose yards, 6 total TDs

To start, there is one question that needs to be asked. If you were going up against one of the top receivers in the state, one that is seemingly a mismatch to all who try, would you double him? The answer to that question was often yes when talking about Morton’s Lebron Hill, who still put up impressive numbers despite defenses keying in on his every move. So to those who may wonder why the stats may not add up, trust us, they would if they could.

Hill has played his way into a three-star rating given by 247 sports, as college coaches at the next level have sought after the multifaceted receiver. Just recently, Hill committed to Vanderbilt – arguably playing at the highest level in college football in the SEC. With how much attention he received from opposing defenses on Friday nights, we are sure that the recent Top 50 All-State selection will be just fine moving forward down in Nashville.

 

Luke Juris | Senior | Offensive Lineman | Hobart

The two time All-State and All-Conference selection held it down in the trenches in the new-look Brickie offense. Juris, who was second team All-Area for us last year, had to take things a step further in his senior season.

Fortunate for us, Hobart was one of the few programs that recorded pancake blocks on MaxPreps. As solid as the Hobart offensive line was, no one likes pancakes more than Juris – who led the team with 66 on the year. Better yet, the senior did not allow a sack this fall. Although you cannot completely measure a lineman’s value from a stat like pancakes or sacks given up – it sure does help.

The ferocity of Juris will continue into this winter season, as the senior is also a gifted wrestler for the Brickies.

Ben Novak | Junior | Offensive Lineman | Andrean

How do you know if you are doing the right thing on the offensive line both individually and as a team? 

For one, your team finds success both running and passing the football – as playing as a two-dimensional offense was a struggle for Andrean last year. A three-win team in 2023, this much-improved unit took things to the Semi-State round in 2024 in addition to winning a share of the conference title. If that wasn’t enough, how about the University of Wisconsin knocking at your door?

The recent Wisconsin commit and Top 50 All-State selection as a junior found himself on this list last year, but only seems to be getting better as time wears on. Novak, at his impressive imposing size, was predominantly a guard for the Niners in 2024. The junior can be asked to do whatever is needed – as he also has taken snaps at the tackle position. Novak has shown to be able to get out in space and perform any type of block needed. Looking at next year’s squad for Andrean, the future is beyond bright – especially with Novak being a part of it.

Nolan Cicero | Junior | Offensive Lineman | Crown Point

Being on talented teams over the span of multiple seasons, players often have to wait their turn to get on the field. CP’s Nolan Cicero had to do the same, but certainly made the most in his first full season as a starter. Better yet, he did so with the seemingly daunting task with his father serving as his position coach for the past few seasons.

Although what may be a small sample size in terms of snaps, college coaches love what they see – as Cicero has already gotten some looks at the next level with offers from Miami Ohio and Toledo. The junior also landed an All-State selection, again, all in year one as a full-time member on the Bulldog offensive line. Many must wonder: What could happen next year?

Jaden Swanson | Senior | Offensive Lineman | Merrillville

The Merrillville offensive line was senior-led, violent, and performed at a level that allowed them to get two 1,000-yard All-Conference rushers. Merrillville’s Jaden Swanson was one of those seniors up front, and he may have been the best.

An imposing 6’5 interior offensive lineman this year, the recent All-State selection manned the guard position for a few years now. Although he looms large, he is trusted with the typical assignments of a guard (pulling, reaching to second level, etc.) and certainly performed at a high level.

Cayleb Sharp | Senior | Offensive Lineman | Valparaiso

You usually cannot have an All-Area list without mentioning at least one Valparaiso offensive lineman. It has been a trend like no other, and Cayleb Sharp is the next name on the list and rightfully so.

The now-multiple All-Conference and All-State selected senior paved the way for what was another successful season running the football for the Vikings. Sharp, also a three-year starter, has played both guard and tackle during his time with Valparaiso – being equally effective at both spots. 

Ayden Silver | Senior | Athlete | River Forest

STATS: 1,399 passing yards, 27 total touchdowns, 962 rushing yards, 82 total tackles, 2 interceptions

In regards to the overall importance of the team, it is tough to find a player that has been as valuable to a program than Ayden Silver. 

Since his freshman year, Silver has at the very least made an impact on one side of the ball. He would strictly be under center for his full season at the position in his sophomore year, but then went both ways in his upperclassmen years and did it all exceptionally well.

Better known as “Turtle”, the senior got better as a passer in his final season with the Ingots, while still showing off his impressive rushing ability – nearly eclipsing the thousand-yard mark for the second straight season. On the other side of the ball, Silver finished second in total tackles on a respectable River Forest defensive unit. 

DEFENSE

Owen Edlen | Senior | Defensive Lineman | Chesterton

STATS: 69 tackles, 16 TFLs, 7 sacks, 5 PBU, 1 TD

In what was some may say was a surprisingly successful season record-wise for Chesterton, Owen Edlen’s production in 2024 was certainly no head scratcher.

Edlen is an absolute burner off the edge for the Trojans, as at his 6’3, 235 pound frame, his build alone is the prototype for a dominant edge rusher – especially in the pass-heavy DAC. In what turned out to be a very solid Chesterton defensive unit, Elden may have been the heartbeat of it all. Alongside his deep bag of pass rushing moves, he is absolutely relentless in pursuit.

As many others on this list, colleges are fond of the recent All-State selection. He has received Preferred Walk On offers from Notre Dame and Indiana, while receiving other offers from Yale, Army, Western Michigan, Air Force, and others.

Adam Camphor | Senior | Defensive Lineman | Merrillville

STATS: 54 tackles, 14 TFLs, 2 sacks, 2 blocked kicks

A good defensive tackle can make for a solid defense. What about a great defensive tackle?

That was what Adam Camphor was once again, as the senior quickly became a game wrecker in 2024 – doing it at the highest level in NWI. In what has been a long line of dominant Pirate defensive lineman – Camphor fits the billing. With the senior’s two sport background, he simply would outmatch opposing IOL’s off of his pure strength and tenacity. He did this so much so that Southeast Missouri State will be Camphor’s home next fall – a top FCS Division 1 football program.

A team captain this year, while now making his second straight All-Area and All-State teams, SEMO is certainly licking their chops to get Camphor on campus for next fall.

 

Trenton Nixon | Senior | Defensive Lineman | Merrillville

STATS: 48 tackles, 8 TFLs, 8 sacks, 2 INTs, 3 blocked kicks

While the entire Merrillville defense is great, it was just about a two-man show up front as Trenton Nixon paired well with fellow All-Area team member Adam Camphor. While Camphor was the run stuffer, Nixon was more of the disruptor on the edges and in the passing game.

Also voted as a team captain, Nixon features both next-level athleticism in addition to his 6’4 frame. Also a track athlete, Nixon is a rare individual who both runs hurdles and throws shot and discus – further pushing the narrative of how much of a freak athlete he is. The two-star recruit (247 sports) will head to DeKalb next season to join the Northern Illinois Huskies.

Adrian Holley | Senior | Defensive Lineman | Michigan City

STATS: 84 total tackles, 30 TFLs, 12.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles

Although the 2024 season may not have lived up to the expectations that the Michigan City faithful had in mind – they may have had the best defensive player in the Region. To start, City’s Adrian Holley had more tackles for loss than many players around the area had tackles.

Before we get into Holley’s defense, let it be known that the senior was required switch jerseys every possession due to going both ways – as he has been a piece on the offensive line as well for the Wolves. Given his two jersey numbers are relatively positioned-based, it adds another task to the already full plate of Holley’s. That alone is impressive.

But having a rusher of that production in the Duneland is invaluable. You could try, but it was easier said than done to scheme offenses away from him. Holley is relentless and just as effective in the rushing game as he is in the passing game. He is dominant to the point where he is ranked as the seventh best recruit in the state according to 247 sports. The Top 50 All-State product will now focus on terrorizing Big 12 quarterbacks as he will suit up for the Kansas Jayhawks next fall.

Trevor Gibbs | Junior | Linebacker | Crown Point

STATS: 51 total tackles, 2 TFLs, 1 sack, 2 interceptions, 498 receiving yards, 8 total TDs

There are a lot of great two-way players around the Region that will be graduating this summer. However, Trevor Gibbs might be next up come 2025, that is if he already isn’t “here.”

A Top 50 All-State selection as a junior, Gibbs simply has instincts for the football. The linebacker has shown off his great hands on whatever side of the ball he is on – given his 33 receptions and 2 interceptions this year. In addition to his impressive coverage in the passing game, he is certainly no slouch either in the run game.

To put things lightly, he is ultimately what you are looking for in a modern-day linebacker. He is not someone who can only cover sideline-to-sideline but also end zone to end zone. College coaches see that as well, given his three star rating on 247 Sports, which has reeled him in offers from Indiana, Cincinnati, Illinois, Ball State, and others. 

While the Bulldogs will lose a chunk of key pieces come next fall, look out for Gibbs to lead the charge in what is still expected to be a talented group of Bulldogs.

 

Khaled Alzeer | Senior | Linebacker | Boone Grove

STATS: 137 total tackles, 23 TFLs, 8 sacks

Looking at the past four years of Boone Grove football – it has been a period of successful seasons with growth all across the board. From divisional championships in the GSSC to a brand new football facility – a lot has changed in a short amount of time for BG. The recent All-State nod, Khaled Alzeer, has had a front row seat to it all – as the four-year starter put together a memorable senior year in what was already an impressive career for the Wolves.

Starting on the offensive line as well, Alzeer was near the top of the Region in tackles, along with showing his ability to play behind the line of scrimmage with his 23 tackles for loss. Alzeer will certainly be missed in what was an memorable senior class for the Wolves.

Lucas Szymborski | Senior | Linebacker | Crown Point

STATS: 67 total tackles, 5 TFLs, 205 receiving yards, 4 TDs

It was quite the impressive defense unit Crown Point had in 2023 – but it was also a group that graduated talent heading into this past season. Thankfully, alongside the other breakouts we saw this year on CP’s defense, it was certainly a pleasure to welcome Lucas Szymborski back home.

The All-State LB/WR was a Crown Point kid growing up but moved out to Tennessee in his middle school days. After a few years at Cleveland High School in the Volunteer state, Szymborski would come home for his senior year and make an immediate impact.

The now-Ball State commit went both ways for CP, pacing the uber-talented defensive unit in tackles while also reeling in a fair amount of passes as a receiver. If you thought that was all you would hear of the senior’s name this school year, you are wrong, as Szymborski was a two-time state champion wrestler in Tennessee, with plans to make his mark in Indiana this year with a third title.

Freddy Brown | Senior |
Defensive Back/Linebacker | Morton

STATS: 82 tackles, 4 sacks, 5 TFLS, 7 total TDs

It has been difficult to find a program that produces next-level talent quite like the Morton Governors. No matter what you can say, respect is certainly deserved. Alongside others in his class, Freddy Brown further pushes the narrative of how much talent is coming out of Morton.

A player that can play nearly anywhere defensively, the All-State selection may be the most versatile defensive player in the area. From rushing the passer after lining up on the line, to playing in the defensive backfield – Brown is everywhere. Just watch the film.

 And as solid of a defensive piece Brown was and has been for the Governors, he stepped it up on the offensive side this year – racking up over 150 yards of offense and his yearly-best in touchdowns with seven on the year. The Western Michigan commit was recruited as a linebacker, but who knows? He is that solid all over the field.

Dylan Bowen | Junior | Defensive Back | Hanover Central

STATS: 117 total tackles, 5 interceptions,  2 TDs

While it may be difficult for some to not mention his brother that came before him on the gridiron, it may be safe to say that Hanover Central’s Dylan Bowen is writing his own story – and writing it well.

While the defensive back shined in his limited action in 2023, this past fall was certainly a breakout year for the junior All-State selection. Bowen led a strong Hanover defense, one that faced a fair amount of turnover after graduating its winningest senior class last fall. The junior led the team in tackles – as Bowen may be one of the hardest-hitting players in the area.

As mentioned before, the junior is writing his own story, as he recently committed to Oklahoma State to play baseball. Although as of now it is only for baseball, Dylan could potentially follow suit of his brother, Drayk, as a two-sport athlete at the next level. He certainly has the ability at least.

 

Michael Crawford Jr. | Senior | Defensive Back | Michigan City

STATS: 144 total tackles, 13 TFLs, 2 TDs

Speaking of hard-hitting defensive backs, Michigan City’s Michael Crawford certainly deserves some recognition. If it was not his fellow first-teamer Adrian Holley making the defensive play for City, chances are it was Crawford on the back end.

The All-State selection has played just about everywhere in the defensive backfield for the Wolves over his time with the squad – but really shined at the safety position where he was near the top of overall leaderboard in tackles. In a position that can ask a lot of a player, especially in the run game, Crawford fully showed his ability to make plays in space – a skill that is invaluable.

 

John Peters | Senior | Defensive Back | Merrillville

STATS: 38 total tackles, 4 interceptions, 19 receptions, 425 receiving yards, 9 total touchdowns

Everywhere John Peters went, a big play seemed to follow. Starting on the offensive side, the senior averaged 22.4 yards per catch, as he brought in a career-best eight touchdown catches this year. The ball skills translated over right to the defensive side, the side of the ball where Peters (arguably) was the most effective – as the now-multiple All-State nod reeled in a career-best four interceptions.

The three-star Western Michigan commit will make a quest to get back to state as a member of the track and field team for the Pirates. The senior made the championships rounds in the 110 hurdles and the 4X100 relay in 2023. Peters is and has been box office for the Pirates, no matter the sport.

 

Jimmy Finley | Senior | Athlete | Andrean

STATS: 52 receptions, 802 receiving yards, 11 total touchdowns, 76 total tackles, 5 interceptions

It is hard to not go through a college football Saturday and not see any news about the Colorado Buffaloes – more specifically its two-way Heisman winner in Travis Hunter. Hunter has taken the football world by storm given his effectiveness all over the field. If there is someone from around the area that may fit the style of play of Hunter – it might be Andrean’s Jimmy Finley.

The senior started his preps career as a ball hawk of a defensive back but has since shifted over into an all-over-the-field playmaker that has been one of Andrean’s best over the past few seasons. With over 500 receiving yards in 2023 in his first true season as a receiver, Finley bested all of his receiving totals in ’24. He scored touchdowns in four different ways, as he was always a weapon on special teams as well.

Northern Illinois will be getting a good one come next fall, but the three-time All-State selection is still a name to look out for on both the hardwood and the track – as the senior has ran (and hurdled) his way down to the state round this past track season.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Zander Lankford | Senior | Punter/Kicker | Hobart

STATS: 19/31 kickoffs were touchbacks, 15/32 punts were inside the 20, 41.8 yards per punt

The NCC’s top punter is certainly not limited to that. While Zander Lankford but up a mind-boggling 41+ yard average on his punts, his strong leg was evident on kickoffs. Similar to his fellow conference-mate and first teamer, PJ Cusick, opposing offenses often had to start at their own 20.

Lankford, a highly touted special teams recruit, has racked up a few offers from some impressive programs.

PJ Cusick | Senior | Kicker/Punter | Andrean

STATS: 27/29 PATS, 5-12 FGA, 58 yards per kickoff, 35/54 kickoffs were touchbacks, 34.8 yards per punt

Having a pure kickoff specialist is an underrated aspect, especially at the high school level. In more than half of PJ Cusick’s kickoffs, they resulted in touchbacks – meaning offenses are more than likely starting the drive at their own 20. 

While offenses seem to more advanced by the season, backing those units up a few yards could pan out – which is why Cusick was awarded the conference’s best kicker.

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