For my Week 4 Thursday night game of the week, I traveled to Gretna, where I checked out the host Gretna Dragons taking on the Elkhorn Antlers. I was semi-surprised to see this turn into a defensive scrap as the wet, rainy night made it hard for either passing game to fully take off. Both defenses also really came to play as they anchored down, especially deep in their own territories, where we saw missed kicks, turnovers on downs, and gritty overall play. Ultimately, the Dragons sealed the deal with a 4th-quarter touchdown run to win 10-7.
Here were the Elkhorn prospects who caught my attention throughout the game:
Notable Standouts:
Wyatt Worlie, 2027 – RB/LB – 5’8″ 170 lbs
Senior Wyatt Worlie showed off his toughness and grit, putting together an excellent two-way performance in the near-upset win. Wyatt led all rushers with 17 carries for 131 yards on offense, along with 12 tackles and two TFLs on defense. On offense, Wyatt is a versatile runner who uses his lateral quickness and springiness to bounce runs to the outside, where he can burst for a big gain once he rounds the corner. He can also play downhill as a physical runner who chips away at defenses between the tackles. Worlie runs with a low center of gravity and consistent pad level, making him tough to tackle; add his strong leg drive, and he can easily power through tackles for extra yardage. Defensively, Wyatt is part of a fiery linebacker group that does an excellent job playing the run. Worlie reads his keys well and is quick to shoot his gap, often leading to plays at/behind the LOS. He has an excellent motor and keeps fighting through blocks to work his way to the ball on every snap.
Matthew Ott, 2027 – WR/DB – 6’1″ 180 lbs – (@MatthewOtt73427)
This was my first in-game look at senior Matthew Ott, and I was very impressed with the skill set he displayed on both sides of the ball. The rainy night kept the air attack limited for the most part, but I was still impressed with Ott’s route running. He showed he can attack all levels of the field with the speed and jump-ball ability to win over the top, or use his explosive breaks to create separation when working the middle of the field. Matthew can be physical with DBs challenging him at the catch point, and he is also aggressive when working back to the ball—flashing strong, reliable hands. Willing blocker on the perimeter. The traits that make him a great receiver make him just as good on the defensive side of the ball. Ott has great instincts and twitchy change of direction that helps him stick to receivers throughout their route. He uses his hands well when going up to defend passes. Very consistent prospect with tons of experience ready to make an impact at the next level.
Eli Betz, 2028 – OL/DL – 6’7″ 295 lbs – (@Elibetz28)
Junior Eli Betz is one of the top players in our 2028 rankings, listed in the top 10 as an offensive lineman, but this game really opened my eyes to his defensive game. The stats may not pop off the page, but when you rewatch the game, you see the impact he brought to the field. At 6’7″ and 295 pounds, Eli is a mountain to move on the interior defensive line as he possesses the length to be the aggressor at the point of attack with his initial jab while also having the strength in his base to anchor down and stack blocks. Even when taking on double teams, Eli showed the motor to keep fighting through them and effective hands to disengage and pursue. Offensively, he’s very mobile, which stood out in some of his pass-protection reps where he corralled some of the Dragons’ speedier rushers. Good lateral quickness as a run blocker who can get out in space or move his way through to the second level. Mean, finisher mentality when engaged with defenders. Under-the-radar prospect with elite measurables and a huge ceiling.
Maddox Seitz, 2027 – LB/TE – 6’1″ 210 lbs – (@MaddoxSeitz)
Senior Maddox Seitz is an interesting player who projects best as a defensive player but flashed a versatile offensive skill set that could intrigue some coaches. Overall, Maddox recorded three tackles, 25 rushing yards, and the Antlers’ sole touchdown. On defense, Maddox projects well as a linebacker with a strong, sturdy frame at 6’1″ and 210 pounds that can really bring the hammer down when he gets to the ball. He reacts well to what he sees and has the lateral quickness to flow sideline to sideline, plus a quick first step when triggering downhill. Offensively, I can see Maddox in an H-back/TE hybrid role, where you can use him as a runner in short-yardage situations and use his bigger frame to weaken up the defenses. He can also be used as a blocker, and he’s shown he can hold his own when lead blocking or picking up blitzes in pass protection.
Lane Wittgren, 2027 – DB – 5’10” 170 lbs
Senior Lane Wittgren brought a high motor and intensity to a secondary that did a great job containing the opposing passing attack. Lane was everywhere for this defense, tallying 18 tackles and recovering a fumble that set up a touchdown. Lane is a rangy player who can go from one sideline to the other using a quick break on the ball and good closing speed. When he gets to the ball carrier, Wittgren does a great job using proper technique to bring down his opponent. Lane isn’t just a cover safety, as he can also crash downhill to fit the run and clog up the box. Definitely looking forward to seeing more tape from Lane’s senior season.
