College football: Area alumni from 2022 making marks in Big Ten, SEC and beyond

May 31—More than a dozen area players from the class of 2022 signed with FBS schools, and a handful more made major college rosters as walk-ons.

With several more area alumni pushing for playing time this fall, here is an overview of the group that has members playing in the Big Ten, SEC, MAC, Sun Belt, AAAC and Notre Dame:

Alex Afari Jr., defensive back, Kentucky

The 6-2, 214-pounder from Lakota West made an early impact with the Wildcats, starting three games in playing in all 13 as a freshman. Last season, he started 12 games and finished with 49 tackles, including 5.5 for loss and one sack. He also forced and recovered a fumble.

Kaleb Johnson, running back, Iowa

A 6-foot, 222-pounder from Hamilton, Johnson had a fantastic freshman season in Iowa City. He ran for 779 yards, including 5.2 per carry, in 2022 and showed the ability to hit the home run for a Hawkeyes offense badly in need of playmakers. Injuries prevented him from blossoming further last season, though, when he missed three games and ended up with 463 yards on 117 carries.

Taran Tyo, offensive line, Ball State

After starring on both sides of the ball at Versailles, Tyo played in three games on the offensive line in 2022. He started every game last season when the Cardinals went 4-8.

Silas Walters, defensive back, Miami University

The 6-1, 197-pound Walters played in 13 games and was recognized as the RedHawks’ most valuable walk-on in 2022. The Lakota West grad was credited with 34 tackles last season and led the nation in tackles on special teams according to Miami. That led to him being named the team’s Special Teams Most Valuable Player and made him a finalist for National Special Teams Player of the Year. Walters also is a two-time All-Academic MAC member.

Tegra Tshabola, offensive lineman, Ohio State

One way or another, the Lakota West product figures…


Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/college-football-area-alumni-2022-184300585.html

Author : Dayton Daily News, Ohio

Publish date : 2024-05-31 18:43:00

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