Ricardo’s Rising Stars: Nigel Godfrey & Darrell Bracey (Recap, Heat v. Hurricanes)

The match-up between the Maryland Heat and Central Va. Hurricanes (JV) was a battle for the ages. The Heat came out on top by a final score of 19-6, but the game was much closer than the final score indicates.

Heat Quarterback, Wyatt Hagan got the scoring started, showing off his versatility by running in a naked bootleg from inside the 5-yard line. That drive, as well as many others on the day was spear-headed by the ground game, led by running back, Rawlings.

The game was very physical and oft times, competitive tempers flared. What developed was a defensive grudge match as each team was determined to stand toe-to-toe and punch the other in the mouth until one was willing to concede. Heat linebacker, Justin Gibson played the role of enforcer all day. In the first half, he was able to routinely read, get penetration and make tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage. The highlight of the first half came when Heat defensive back, Jaden Carter intercepted a pass and returned it the length of the field for a touchdown. He would finish with two interceptions on the day.

The Hurricanes would no go away easily though, as Nigel Godfrey returned the second half kick-off for a touchdown to cut the deficit to 13-6. Godfrey was just getting started. The 3rd and much of the 4th quarter belonged to Nigel as he was able to gash the once impenetrable Heat defense, in some series, 10+ yards at at time. He finished with well over 100 yards rushing and with less than a minute left, had his Hurricanes inside the 10 yard line with a chance to tie. His efforts though were for naught. Darrell Bracey made a great read on an out route, stepping in front of the intended receiver, intercepting the pass and taking it 95 yards for the game clinching score. It was Bracey’s second interception on the day and he also had a clutch long pass reception. His all around efforts made him the game MVP.

Bracey has tremendous length and awareness. He is both a physical force and versatile enough to play all over the field. So long as he maintains his academics and continues to grow and develop as a young man, he is certainly someone to keep an eye on.