Mordecai Lowers the Boom

WACO, Texas - Few games in Central Texas had bigger implications than Waco Midway and Round Rock Cedar Ridge with both programs coming off of district titles. The Midway Panthers not only returned after a strong 2016 season but did so returning a talented senior class led by Oklahoma quarterback commitment Tanner Mordecai.

The 6-foot-2, 197-pound Mordecai committed to the Sooners this summer and has largely flown under the radar since. But following a 27-41 for 280-yards and four-touchdown performance it was always going to be hard for him to stay quiet.

During his team's impressive 34-19 over Cedar Ridge Mordecai showed off more diversity in his game than he sometimes gets credit for. Mordecai is still a work in progress, but is definitely player with a lengthy list of strengths.

The nation's No. 21 pro-style quarterback may not be a dynamic runner but is very capable of moving around in the pocket and does it while keeping his eyes down the field. With that in mind, his running is largely with the intent to buy time for his receivers to find open space but when they do he shows off the ability to hit them while on the move.

On several occasions a sturdy Cedar Ridge defense flushed him out of the pocket only to see him find a receiver working into open space.

And though he isn't a player that flashes overwhelming arm strength his touch and accuracy on his deep balls looks to become a hallmark of his game in the college ranks when he has even more receivers who can stretch the field.

Although it could be argued if any one aspect of Mordecai's game truly stands out, one area that might be is just overall competitiveness and toughness in the game.

And in the best news for Sooner fans Mordecai says he is completely solid with Oklahoma and will be taking his official visit on Oct. 27 for the Texas Tech weekend.

*Though Cedar Ridge was a solid team they had only one true standout but 2019 wide receiver Jaylen Ellis did more than enough to make himself notable. Ellis flashed the ability to stretch the field and hands to make catches from all angles. Offers figure to start rolling in for him soon enough.

*Though Mordecai is a key part of Midway's success he is part of a senior class that has five other FBS commitments right now. And while several are headed the power five route the one that was the biggest standout? How about defensive tackle Jaxon Player. Though a bit undersized Player was absolutely dominant on the inside, routinely splitting double-teams and creating pressure upfield from the inside of the defensive line.