The Michigan Sports Writers have announced the 2024 Division 1-2 All-State football team, as chosen by a panel of 11 sportswriters. This year’s standout recognition goes to Bryce Underwood from Belleville, named Player of the Year.
Underwood also secured a position as the first-team quarterback alongside other notable players. The first team quarterback selections include Jonathan Pittman from Mona Shores and Tommy Carr from Saline, both making significant contributions to their teams this past season.
In the running back category, the first-team honors go to Jayden “Tank” Terry from Grandville, Desmond Straughton from Roseville, Jace Clarizo from East Lansing, and Justin Jones from Howell, showcasing impressive performances throughout the season.
The receiver lineup includes athletic talents such as Lincoln Keyes from Saline, Elijah Dotson from Belleville, Samson Gash from Detroit Catholic Central, Charles Britton from Belleville, and Connor O’Rourke from Mattawan, all demonstrating exceptional skills on the field.
The offensive line features distinguished players, with Khalief Canty from Detroit Cass Tech, Avery Gach from Birmingham Groves, N-Kye-Wynn from Muskegon, Ben Nichols from Davison, Danilo Guberinich from Detroit Catholic Central, Cam Clark from Dexter, Gregory Patrick from Portage Northern, and Shawn Turpin from Howell. Each has played a crucial role in their offensive strategies.
On the defensive side, standout players include Lamar Fairfax from Belleville and Bobby Kanka from Howell. Additional all-state defensive line nominees encompass Logan Criteser from Macomb Dakota, Jalen Oosting from Hudsonville, Jack McHugh from Detroit Catholic Central, Logan Howell from Detroit Cass Tech, Isaiah Harris from Saline, Ja’Mari Taylor from Mona Shores, Jacob Tur from Warren De La Salle, and Ryan Harrington from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s.
The linebacker category features Nathan Gersh from Dexter, Lincoln Watkins from Port Huron Northern, Darekeo Speech from Muskegon, and Dimari Malone from Macomb Dakota, who have made key defensive plays.
Defensive backs selected include Corey Sadler and Alex Graham from Detroit Cass Tech, Drew Esper from Traverse City West, and Chris Coates from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s. The specialist roles award honors to Aidan O’Neil as kicker from Clarkston Hills and senior Cooper Clark from Forest Hills Northern as punter.
Notable athletes on the team are Bryson Williams from Orchard Lake St. Mary, Isaac Poot from Rockford, and Anthony Bitonti from Warren De La Salle. Coach of the Year recognition goes to Brent Sandee from Hudsonville for his exemplary leadership.
The second team honors consisted of nominees who received at least two votes. These athletes include quarterbacks Landon Tungate from Byron Center, Lawrence Wells from Brighton, and Jake Morrow from Grand Blanc along with several running backs and receivers who contributed significantly to their teams’ successes this season.
Honorable mentions are also issued to players recognizing their hard work and talent. This includes various positions across the board, providing a nod to the depth of talent present in Michigan high school football this season. The voting panel comprised sports journalists from various local publications, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of talent statewide.
