Offensive football players to watch in Licking County in 2023

NEWARK — Whether a dual-threat quarterback is throwing to a high-flying receiver or running behind a powerful line, Licking County offenses are going to be tough to stop during the upcoming 2023 season.

Here is an offensive player to watch from each Licking County school.

Check back Monday for the defensive players to watch.

Dante Varrasso, WR, Granville: The senior stepped into his starring role as a junior, becoming Granville's latest premier receiver. He made 65 catches for 906 yards and 11 TDs as the Blue Aces won a share of the Licking County League-Buckeye Division championship and again reached the Division III playoffs.

Brayden Bayles, QB, Heath: The senior had a fine junior season as a dual threat, totaling 1,645 passing yards with 9 TDs and 730 rushing yards with 6 TDs. With a senior-laden roster, the Bulldogs hope to compete for an LCL-Cardinal Division championship and make a run in the Division V playoffs.

Brody Thompson, OL, Johnstown: The senior tackle anchored an offensive line that blocked for a pair of 1,000-yard rushers. The Johnnies will have new ball carriers this season but expect them to run behind the 5-foot-11, 225-pound Thompson.

Isaiah Mitchell, WR, Lakewood: The senior was a big-play machine in all three phases for the Lancers, totaling seven TDs. He led the receiving corps with 59 catches for 734 yards.

Jake Lopinto, RB, Licking Heights: The junior emerged down the stretch as the Hornets’ top playmaker last season. He scored seven touchdowns in the last five games and again will be dangerous both from the backfield and the slot.

Hayden Rodgers, QB, Licking Valley: The senior blossomed in his second full season as the Panthers’ starting quarterback, recording 1,872 passing yards and 19 TDs and 519 yards rushing and seven TDs. Licking Valley should be a top contender in the LCL-Buckeye and Division IV, Region 15.

Steele Meister, QB, Newark: The senior added a running element to his game during his second full season as a starter to compliment his big arm. Meister totaled more than 1,100 yards and nine TDs for the Wildcats.

Miller Hutchison, QB, Newark Catholic: The junior made a smooth transition into the starting lineup as a sophomore, racking up 2,011 passing yards and 21 TDs. The Green Wave are looking to repeat as LCL-Cardinal champions and move back up to Division VI after winning three consecutive Division VII regional titles.

Cameron Brannigan, RB, Northridge: The junior has earned varsity time at linebacker since his freshman season. In 2023, he is expected to earn his first significant action in the backfield. He did show flashes on limited touches down the stretch in 2022.

Gavin Chinn, WR, Utica: The senior made a number of highlight-reel catches last season, adding a deep-strike element to the Utica offense. He caught 34 balls for 727 yards and nine TDs.

Jimmy Bogle, OL, Watkins Memorial: The Warriors’ offense took off as a maturing line began to impose its will. At 6-3, 270, the junior can clear space on the right side for the Warriors, who hope to defend their piece of the LCL-Buckeye and make another trip to the Division II playoffs.