Published Oct 31, 2015
Rivals Recap: Nashville
Woody Wommack
Recruiting Analyst
Nashville, Tenn.: A pair of longtime Nashville rivals clashed on Friday night, with Montgomery Bell Academy holding on to pull off a thrilling 23-21 victory over Ensworth in a rematch of the 2014 state championship game. Much like he did in last year's state title victory, Class of 2017 four-star running back Ty Chandler led the way for the Big Red and plenty of other young players also turned in impressive showings.
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I was impressed with …
Despite Ensworth loading up to slow down Chandler, it was a banner night for the four-star as he racked up 221 yards and two touchdowns. Chandler showed good vision and made quick reads when it came time to hit the hole. During the offseason Chandler showed off his versatility by performing well in pass catching drills, but he's his team's bell cow running back this season and he looked the part of a future every down back. Chandler said after the game that Ohio State, Ole Miss and Georgia remain heavily involved in his recruitment.
I was surprised by
Class of 2017 Ensworth defensive back Rodney Owens recently picked up his first two offers, courtesy of Miami (Ohio) and Mercer and on Friday night he was all over the field for the Ensworth defense. While he didn't get many chances in the passing game, the safety showed excellent instincts and has a nose for the ball. It should only be a matter of time before Power Five offers come his way.
Other observations
  • Three-star UCLA tight end commit Jordan Wilson missed the game and will not return this season as he recovers from a stress fracture in his foot. According to Wilson, his recovery is going well and he's a few weeks away from beginning rehab. When it comes to recruiting, Louisville continues to chase Wilson, but he said he has no plans to take visits to any other schools. His official visit to UCLA is planned for December.
  • Class of 2018 Ensworth defensive back Jaylon King already has offers from Tennessee and Vanderbilt and played like a future star on Friday night. He played on both sides of the ball as well as special teams, and there were very few snaps when he wasn't on the field. Owens isn't even halfway through his high school career, but is already one of the most important players on a perennial championship contender.
  • Ensworth may not be having a championship caliber season, but the team has plenty of young talent beyond King and Owens, including class of 2018 jumbo running back/linebacker Nicky Clifton and Class of 2018 defensive tackle/tight Tanner Antonutti The 6-foot-5, 235-pound Antonutti made plays on both sides of the ball and has terrific upside, whether it's on the defensive line, at tight end or perhaps even offensive tackle.
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