Unlike their offensive counterparts, Highland Park’s defense is already battle-tested and many of their starting players have already faced some of Class 6A’s offensive heavyweights.
With the Scots returning to Class 5A Division I in the fall, the experience should only strengthen a unit that gave up an average of 15.5 points in its 11 wins last year.
That’s especially true on offense, where HP is loaded with experienced veterans in its 3-4 formation. Returning linebackers include hard-hitting Anders Corn and Jack Morse, who is entering his third season on the varsity team.
“He’s as good as any linebacker we’ve ever had,” HP head coach Randy Allen said of Morse, who recorded the most tackles on his team last year with 93 tackles, including 14 for loss, and seven sacks.
Defensive end Daniel Turner is another returnee who will start alongside Hank Leigh and nose tackle Amin Elahmadi, who played a valuable reserve role in 2023.
The Scots should benefit from the size and depth of their front seven, allowing them to rotate players, especially in the heat of preseason.
“We’ve all gotten bigger, stronger and faster,” Turner said. “Having guys who know what they’re doing and what it takes at each position is great.”
Jackson McGinley and Brady Ray both started as safety last season, but the cornerback positions are more of a question mark. One of the starters should be the converted receiver Bryce Laczkowski.
“We’re really excited about our defense,” Allen said. “It was tough for them to pass the ball in the spring.”
