Big Country Blitz 3A Preseason Defensive MVP: Elijah Olivarez

Merkel linebacker Elijah Olivarez is the preseason pick as the best 3A defensive player in the Big Country.

Olivarez racked up an astounding 180 tackles in 2022, 18 of them for losses, in helping the Badgers reach the playoffs. He totaled three sacks and recovered a fumble as well, and he played a key role in the Badger offense as well, running for 164 yards and four touchdowns and catching 17 passes for 258 yards and five scores.

Best of the rest:

Breckenridge LB Caiden Marin, Early LB Kaleb Ozuna, Eastland LB Cason Browning, Jim Ned DE Carter Lange, Jim Ned LB Trey Hicks