Top 3 Mater Dei CFB commits to watch ahead of clash against Bishop Gormon ft. Chris Henry Jr.
Top-ranked Mater Dei is set to face off against second-ranked Bishop Gorman. Their previous matchup in 2022 was tight, which Mater Dei won 24-21, its third win in a series of seven meetings.
With a 1-0 record, Mater Dei will rely heavily on its standout college-bound players to maintain its edge over the 2-0 Bishop Gorman, the defending national champion.
Top 3 Mater Dei CFB commits to watch out for:
#1. Chris Henry Jr.
Chris Henry Jr., a five-star wide receiver, is widely regarded as one of the top high school football prospects. His ability to create separation and make contested catches could be a game-changer for Mater Dei's offense as it goes up against a stout Bishop Gorman's defense.
Henry Jr. transferred from Cincinnati Withrow, where he put up impressive numbers as a junior with 71 receptions for 1,127 yards and 10 touchdowns. In the previous season, he recorded 65 receptions, 1,200 receiving yards, and 15 touchdowns, with an additional 200 rushing yards.
#2. Daryus Dixson
Another notable player for Mater Dei's defense is cornerback Daryus Dixson. Committed to the University of Oregon, Dixson is famous for his tight coverage and brutality. Last season, he presented his skillset with 40 tackles, three interceptions and 10 pass breakups. He also played a part in the receiver’s coverage.
#3. Nasir Wyatt
New Oregon commit Nasir Wyatt will lead the Mater Dei defensive line. He was named an All-American by MaxPreps in 2023, ending his junior year with 41 tackles, 21 tackles for loss, 14 sacks and three forced fumbles. Essential for Mater Dei's football strategy is the pressure he will bring to Bishop Gorman's dual-threat quarterback, Melv Spicon.
The two top high school teams have met for the 14th time after 2000, with Mater Dei partaking in eight of these games since 2017. MaxPreps lists 39 players who have been given a rating of three stars or more by 247Sports, including five-star receivers Chris Henry Jr. (Mater Dei) and Derek Meadows (Gorman), Jordon Davison and Nasir Wyatt from Mater Dei, who are committed to Oregon, and Alai Kalaniuvalu from Gorman.