CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- The 37th annual Illinois state football championships took place this past weekend at Memorial Stadium on the campus of the University of Illinois. There were some great teams playing but there were also some outstanding individuals on the football field. Yesterday, we focused on WR Jordan Westerkamp (Lombard, Ill./Montini Catholic), who will be one of the most sought after 2012 prospects in the Land of Lincoln. Here are some others players who stood out this weekend. OL Zach Taylor (Lombard, Ill./Montini Catholic)
Class of 2011, 6-4, 275 pounds
Taylor helped lead the way for the Broncos' impressive running attack and his coach feels Taylor is being overlooked. "It's a shame that recruiting has gotten to the point that there are seniors who happen to be late bloomers are getting overlooked." Montini Catholic coach Chris Andreano said. "It just started to click for Zach this year but since most schools like to fill up there recruiting classes by the end of summer, Zach and other seniors are getting left behind. There's no doubt in my mind that he can play in the Big Ten."RB/DB Anthony Taylor (Lombard, Ill./Montini Catholic)
Class of 2012, 6-0, 175 poundsTaylor averaged 7 yards per carry in the state championship game. There's no doubt that opposing teams will focus on Westerkamp next season and that should bode well for Taylor, who shows excellent speed and elusiveness. "I feel that Anthony Taylor is going be a big-time prospect." Andreano said. "College coaches are going to have to take a look at him. Anthony is really quick. There's no doubt in my mind that he can play at the next level."RB Tyreis Thomas (Rockford, Ill./Boylan Catholic)
Class of 2012, 5-10, 170 pounds