Gizzi called Virginia Tech commitment Holland Fisher a "special player"
LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla.- One of the main instructors at all Nike Camps and events like The Opening and Gridiron Kings is former NFL linebacker Chris Gizzi. After the conclusion of the annual 7-on-7 tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports, Gizzi took the time to give his thoughts on the Midwest team, individual players and a couple of opposing players that caught his eye.
Gizzi on this years Gridiron Kings...
“I’ll tell you what; everyone here was so talented. They have so much speed. What these camps really give the kids an opportunity to see is what speed and strength is like under adversity against this level of competition. I think that’s a part you want to drive home at an event like this is guys facing, and responding to adversity.”
Gizzi on the Midwest linebackers...
“A lot of guys impressed me on our team. Whenever you see big linebackers that can still move playing basketball on grass, it’s impressive. What nightmares Alex Anzalone and (Jon) Reschke must be with pads on. Obviously, Holland Fisher is a special player. I think he’ll be a centerfield guy long term. As he gets in the film room, he’ll continue to expand.”
Gizzi on 2014 five-star Quin Blanding...
“Quin Blanding has a great engine on him. He really showed what he could do on both sides of the ball, and he has another year of doing this type stuff. I really like that kid. His athleticism and competitive nature – I would like to coach him.”
Gizzi on Michigan quarterback commit Shane Morris...
“It obviously looks pretty when a left t throws a ball, and he throws an exceptional ball. He makes good decisions, and I think his touch improved as the event went on. Those hard balls he was throwing in the first two games, he made with much better touch the last three games. Because his arm is so strong, he always wants to show his stuff. Shane has a good upside to him. He’ll have a good career.”
Wide receiver Levonte Whitfield impressed the former NFL linebacker...
“The Whitfield kid, he caught a curl on us and literally snapped his head around and was gone. He disappeared and we had some fast kids running after him. He caught the ball well as the event went on, and can take that confidence with him as he goes back home and gets ready for the season.”
Gizzi on Alabama tight end commit OJ Howard...
“You don’t see many kids like him in college, let alone high school. I mean, the kids still in high school, so it’s a huge upside with him. Speed is at a premium, and he fits where the game is currently at.”
- Gerry Hamilton
- National Scouting Director - 247Sports