Prep Ballers was in attendance for one of the most anticipated semifinal matchups of the GHSA playoffs on Friday night.
As expected, a number of top-tier athletes rose to the occasion under the lights. Below is a list of the biggest recruiting winners from a loaded matchup.
Calvary Day School
2024 tight end Michael Smith: The 6-foot-4, 245-pound South Carolina commit repeatedly showed why he is rated as high as the No. 5 player tight end in the class of 2024. His elit explosiveness for the tight end position allows him to not onnly challenge defensive backs off the line, but turn most 50-50 balls into 80-20 balls in his favor.
While his high school career may be over, it will not be long before Smith is a household name at the collegiate level. The Gamecocks' lack of an elite tight end gives the Peach State native a clear path to early playing time.
2024 wide receiver Caden Arnold: If Arnold was two inches taller, Division I schools would be lining up to extend him an offer. But at roughly 5-foot-10, the talented wideout's offer list consists of FCS and Division II programs.
On top of his 120-yard performance, Arnold found the endzone three times on Friday night. His route running was arguably the best on the field and his elite hands were showcased throughout the evening. He looked the part of a Division I athlete, which I hope teams pick up on.
Cedar Grove
2025 running back Bo Walker: If he continues to play like he did last week, it may not be long before Walker's stock rises even more. He joined Arnold as the only non-quarterbacks to find the endzone on three separate occassions, highlighted by two long touchdown rushes.
Rated as a three-star by three of the four major recruiting services, the Georgia commit looked the part of a Division I running back. With another season to build on an already impressive high school career, it would not shock anyone in the slightest if Walker rises up the national rankings.
2025 quarterback E.J. Colson: While Walker stole the show for the Saints, perhaps no player was more electrifying than Colson. His night was highlighted by two touchdown rushes of more than 40 yards in addition to a 56-yard touchdown pass to freshman wide receiver Devin Carter.
Given his dual-threat style of play, UCF seems like an ideal fit for the 6-foot, 195-pound signal caller. If he polishes his game through the air, Colson could make a case to start for the Knights down the road, which I hopes become a reality. There aren't many quarterbacks in the country that posess the elite athleticism of Colson.
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