Cocked & Loaded!

Another high school football season is here and it's to nobody's surprise that the Bolingbrook (Ill.) Raiders are loaded with talent. From quarterback Brad Geever (6-3, 220) to running back Jamel Martin (6-0, 200), "The Brook" will be a force in 2009.

What's scary is the fact that although Geever (6-3, 220) had a phenomenal junior season as did Martin, they might not be the best option at their positions.

Watch out for tailback Devonte Jones (2010), The 5-9, 205-pounder, will get his fair share of carries this season and he it wouldn't surprise me that once he has film, the MAC programs or D-1AA programs take a closer look.

Jones' best attribute may be the fact that he's an excellent honor roll student.

Backing up Geever at quarterback is super freshman Aaron Bailey (6-1, 190). Bailey is a stand-out 3-sport athlete. He has a cannon attached to his shoulder and he's a threat running the football.

Bolingbrook has always been known for their skilled athletes but there's plenty of beef on the o-line and the one to watch is sophomore Robert Bain - pictured (6-3, 260). The younger brother of former U.S. Army All-American, Ryan Bain.

Bain already has a year of varsity (heavyweight) wrestling under his belt and the apple hasn't fallen far from the tree. Robert has the mean streak that Ryan possessed when he was terrorizing offenses at "The Brook".

Another great looking sophomore is Anthony Sharpe (6-4, 305). Sharpe doesn't look sloppy for his size and the coaches are raving about his upside.

The defense is once again stout in "Raider Nation" led by defensive end Jeremy Curry (6-3, 220). Head coach John Ivlow had this to say about Curry. "He's crazy....but in a good way. Jeremy wants to make a point with every tackle." Point being is you run at Jeremy Curry, it's going to be a long day.

Joining Curry on the defensive line is "Big Tuck" Brandon Tucker. The 6-1, 170-pounder, achors the inside for the Raiders.

Mike Hellams (6-1, 220) and Marcus Lee (6-1, 215) are arguably the best linebacker tandem in the state of Illinois. Hard-hitting defensive back Maurice Armstead (6-1, 200) will have college recruiters taking a closer look.

BOLINGBROOK TOP PROSPECTS:

Jamel Martin RB (2010)
Devonte Jones RB (2010)
Robert Bain OL (2012)
Anthony Sharpe OL (2012)
Aaron Bailey QB (2013)

Mike Hellams LB (2010) Verbally committed to Northern Illinois
Marcus Lee LB (2010) Verbally committed to Toledo
Jeremy Curry DE (2010) Verbally committed to Eastern Michigan
Brandon Tucker DT (2010) Verbally committed to Eastern Illinois
Maurice Armstead DB (2010)