Preseason Sweet 16: Meet the top football players on offense in Butler County in 2024
Mars and Knoch will both carry a bevy of offensive talent into the upcoming high school football season. At both the skill positions and on the line, the Planets and Knights are projected to have a number of stars shine in 2024.
They may lead the area in offensive prowess, but talent abounds across Butler County.
The Butler Eagle traditionally publishes its Sweet 16 all-stars at the end of each football season. This preseason, ahead of opening kickoff, meet our Preseason Sweet 16 offense — 16 players you don’t want to miss on Friday nights:
A dual-threat for the Falcon Knights, Bish’s legs will be just as valuable as his arm. He gained valuable experience in 7-on-7 drills this summer.
In his first season as a starter last year, Goodworth passed for more than 2,100 yards and 22 TDs, both single-season records at Mars. He has a strong arm, distributes the ball well and can evade pressure.
A first-year starter, Loebig’s mobility is sure to cause headaches for opposing defenses. He progressed as a passer over the summer.
Ross passed for more than 1,200 yards and 13 TDs as a sophomore. Look for an even more impressive effort out of this rising junior for the Yellowjackets.
As a sophomore at Armstrong High School last year, Sprankle passed for 11 TDs in five games before an injury ended his season. He can also be a factor in Knoch's running game.
His position this season has yet to be determined, but Beachem’s ability and football IQ make him a playmaker regardless of where he plays. He’ll either be throwing passes or catching them.
Big and powerful, this wrecking ball is primed to lead KC's potent ground attack. Scherer rushed for more than 700 yards last year and should approach or exceed 1,000 this fall.
Hein was leading the WPIAL in receiving last year before a mid-season injury. Despite missing half the campaign, he still turned in the best single-season receiving effort in school history (43 catches, 774 yards and eight TDs).
A former quarterback, Mullen’s athleticism will allow him to be a focal point on offense at multiple positions.
Spencer can serve as both a possession receiver and one who can stretch the field. As the team's top returning pass catcher, he will see more balls thrown his way. He’s able to create separation with defensive backs.
Adept at catching passes, O’Hara has proved more valuable as a blocker. He stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 240 pounds. The No. 9 prospect in the state in the class of 2025, according to 247Sports, he is committed to Penn State as an offensive lineman.
Anderson will anchor Butler's line as a two-year starter at tackle. He was voted as a team leader, and he is a relentless competitor.
A steady, reliable guard who is able to direct his teammates on the line. The Gremlins consistently produce very solid offensive linemen, and Ealy is a prime example.
Not only is he the unquestioned leader of the team's offensive front, Foster is Knoch's emotional catalyst. He will be blocking for a talented stable of skill players.
He started all 13 games last season at left tackle. Franklin is receiving interest from Division I schools and stands 6-5 and weighs 300 pounds.
A big, strong and quick guard, Slaughenhoupt uses great technique and has immense potential.
