Fi: US Open Preview
Fi: US Open Preview
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US Open Preview
Christian Pyles
8 weights. Storylines and stars run thick through each. Our Nation’s finest Freestyler’s head to Vegas in pursuit of a National Title and spot in the World Team Trials Finals.
We’ve got a rich combination of young blood, experienced vets and superstars. Jordan Burroughs and Jake Varner represent excellence at the highest levels in our field, both having won Olympic Golds. Contrasting their experience and mettle are guys like Logan Stieber, Ed Ruth and David Taylor. All phenomenal talents, but still looking to break through for a US Open title.
I’ll go through the weights, list the contenders and how I see the weights going. I’ll do the best I can with predictions, but it’s quite tough doing this without the seeds done or brackets drawn. So there’s some guess work. I’ll order it with the guys I think will do the best and let the chips fall where they may! I’ll predict the top 7, as they are automatically given a spot at the World Team Trials.
57 KG-Pre Seeds
1. Angel Escobedo, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
2. Andrew Hochstrasser, Boise, Idaho (Titan Mercury WC)
3. Tyler Graff, Loveland, Colo. (New York AC)
4. Sam Hazewinkel, Norman, Okla. (Sunkist Kids)
5. Brandon Precin, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
6. Frank Perrelli, Itahca, N.Y. (New York AC)
7. Zach Sanders, Minneapolis, Minn. (Minnesota Storm)
8. Brad Pataky, West Point, N.Y. (New York AC)
9. Kyle Hutter, Norfolk, Va. (Titan Mercury WC)
10. Steve Mytych, Coplay, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
11. Dan Mitcheff, Kent, Ohio (NEORTC)
12. Mark McKnight, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
13. Ryan Mango, Palo Alto, Calif. (Cardinal WC)
Right now Angel Escobedo looks like the man to beat. Training in Columbus Ohio at the ORTC, Angel has flourished into one of our most talented and experienced lightweights. I believe he has widened the gap from a guy like Sam Hazewinkel, a skilled veteran who may or may not be drifting further from his prime. Haze is not someone who can be counted out due to his experience and mat savvy, but I think someone like Angel is a bad matchup for him. Escobedo’s attacks are so diverse and quick, that I think a guy like Haze will struggle to counter.
Andrew Hochstrasser has made his mark as one of the tougher 57s in the United States. Hoch has great size and length for this weight and always has used it well. Great motor and tough defense epitomize what makes him a threat at this weight. Speaking of great motors, Mark Mcknight is a guy that never stops coming! He’s not the most refined guys, but he uses pace and motion well to open guys up. Zach Sanders will probably be a bit undersized (which really is nothing new for him) at 57 KG. However, the new match structure with 2 3 minute periods should help the Minnesota dynamo. Known for his vast arsenal and breakneck pace, Sanders is a guy you have to watch out for in this weight.
I’m paying special attention to all the guys in the Cliff Keen Wrestling Club. Listening to Andy Hrovat and Jake Herbert talk about training has my interest piqued! Brandon Precin returns to the midwest and is now training with the CKWC. Look for him to continue to progress and as always, WATCH THE DUMP! Ryan Mango will look to leave the family business of Greco and try his hand at Freestyle. Another crazy matchup for anyone. His big move potential is unparalleled at this weight.
A late and extremely intriguing addition to 57 KG is Tyler Graff. If he can adjust to the lower weight he may be the guy to beat. He’s that good. He’s always been a stud, especially at Freestyle. Tyler is very difficult to takedown and his single leg is completely lethal.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Tyler Graff
2. Angel Escobedo
3. Sam Hazewinkel
4. Andrew Hochstrasser
5. Brandon Precin
6. Frank Perelli
7. Zach Sanders
61 KG
1. Jimmy Kennedy, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
2. B.J. Futrell, Ann Arbor, Mich. (Titan Mercury WC/Cliff Keen WC)
3. Coleman Scott, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC/Cowboy RTC)
4. Matt McDonough, Iowa City, Iowa (Hawkeye WC)
5. Joe Colon, Cedar Falls, Iowa (Panther WC)
Some SERIOUS firepower considering this is a non-Olympic weight. Coleman Scott threw his hat in the ring late in the game. The Olympic Bronze Medalist has to be considered an odds on favorite if he’s on his game. His attacks are varied and crisp. Nobody can match his arsenal and offense when he’s clicking.
BJ Futrell may be hotter than anyone right now. He’s been lights out and recently knocked off an Olympic Bronze medalist. He’s been training at the Cliff Keen Wrestling Club, which could potentially set up an all CKWC final between Kennedy and Futrell if the seeds hold.
Jimmy Kennedy has been phenomenal of late and has notched some big time wins over the last year. Knocking off Reece Humphrey and Logan Stieber within the last year shows how close the former Illini All American is from breaking through.
It’ll be interesting to see how a guy like Joe Colon translates to Freestyle. Part of me thinks he’ll be underhooking guys and just running them off the mat time and time again. He’s a horse, and an absolute threat here.
Then comes Matt McDonough. I’m not sure I’m ready to put him in the conversation with the best guys here. The drive and spirit will never be a question, but I think a lot of Matt’s style is best catered for Folk and wrestling where he can physically dominate guys. Not sure we’ll see that here.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jimmy Kennedy
2. BJ Futrell
3. Coleman Scott
4. Joe Colon
5. Matt McDonough
6. Darius Little
7. Nick Soto
65 KG
1. Brent Metcalf, Iowa City, Iowa (New York AC/Titan Mercury WC)
2. Kellen Russell, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
3. Jordan Oliver, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC/Cowboy RTC)
4. Reece Humphrey, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
5. Frank Molinaro, New Brunswick, N.J. (Nittany Lion WC)
6. Logan Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
7. Jason Chamberlain, Lincoln, Neb. (Titan Mercury WC/Nebraska RTC)
8. Chase Pami, Champaign, Ill. (Sunkist Kids/Illinois RTC)
9. Montell Marion, College Park, Md. (Titan Mercury WC)
Good Lord. This weight is stupid deep. Whoever manages to win this weight will have run an unparalleled gauntlet. The question for me is this: Which one of these guys can turn domestic success into International hardware? Trivia question: Whens that last time we saw a World/Olympic medal at this weight (66?)
Brent Metcalf has been a mainstay at this weight for years never finishing worse than 2nd at a trials the last 4 years. He’s also done well at the US Open. He fell to Jordan Oliver last year in a tight semi-final. However, the new rules make Brent a handful for anyone domestically. Unreal pace, unrelenting attacks and a lethal high crotch and sweep. Brent will be tough to beat.
There are a few guys moving up in weight like Reece Humphrey and Logan Stieber. How will these two Buckeyes transition to the higher weight? Logan has the strength to make a more seamless transition. I’m taking a wait and see approach with Reece but his skills and accolades are well documented.
Kellen Russell (THE GYRO) will look to duplicate his US Open performance a year ago where he won the challenge tournament the day before, then dominated to a title over Jordan Oliver in the US Open finals. When he’s attacking, he’s among the most dangerous at any weight. The problem for Kellen will be his periods of inactivity. He needs to avoid those and keep his foot on the gas. Everyone knows he’s incredibly difficult to score on, but that’s not enough in a weight like this.
Then there’s JO. Oliver is probably the best all around combination at this weight. If he has his tank on point and can wrestle to score for 6 minutes he’ll be darn tough to beat. If he can’t keep it up against a guy like Metcalf, we could see him run away with the title. He’s the best talent, but he’s got to put it together for 2 days.
We will likely see former world team members or national finalists on the outside looking in at this weights top 7. It’s that deep.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Brent Metcalf
2. Jordan Oliver
3. Kellen Russell
4. Logan Stieber
5. Reece Humphrey
6. Frank Molinaro
7. Jason Chamberlain
70 KG
1. Nick Marable, Columbia, Mo. (Sunkist Kids/Missouri RTC)
2. Moza Fay, Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Army)
3. Kevin LeValley, Minneapolis, Minn. (Minnesota Storm)
4. Jason Welch, Evanston, Ill. (Chicago RTC)
5. James Green, Willingboro, N.J. (Titan Mercury WC/Nebraska)
6. Dan Vallimont, Long Beach, N.Y. (Blue & Gold WC)
7. Kyle Ruschell, Madison, Wis. (Badger WC)
8. Adam Hall, New York, N.Y. (Titan Mercury WC)
9. Hunter Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (Ohio RTC)
10. Nate Carr Jr., College Park, Md. (Titan Mercury WC)
11. Vladyslav Dombrovskiy, Rocklin, Calif. (U.S. Army)
What a field! I’m not saying the talent here is a result of Jordan Burroughs, but I’ll just say this. 70 KG has (by my count) 11 different D1 All Americans, among them there are 2 national finalists( Welch, Vallimont) and a National Champ in Jenkins. 74 KG had 3 D1 All Americans(albeit a BIG 3 in JB, DT and Caldwell). So yeah, get excited.
Nick Marable made everyone say “huh?” when he knocked off Jordan Burroughs earlier this year in Turkey. Marable has been active on the Freestyle scene for some time now, if he can make the weight, he’s the guy to beat here. Marable will never be Mr. Offense, but he’s timely and efficient in his attacks. Couple that with stingy defense, positioning, and Sammie Henson in his ear and you can expect good things from Nick Marable.
James Green may not have the experience, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a guy with more offense than Green. We’ll get to see Jason Welch try his hand at Freestyle. The scrambler from California will put his Freestyle chops to the test here. Not sure what he will bring to the table, but you have to expect entertainment at the very least.
Ultimately I think Marable is going to be too much from an experience and tactical standpoint. As offensively gifted as James Green is, I think Marable will be ready for their potential semi final bout.
On the other side of the bracket look out for Moza Fay to make the finals. Ultimately I don’t see him able to take out Marable.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Nick Marable
2. Moza Fay
3. James Green
4. Dan Vallimont
5. Kevin LeValley
6. Hunter Stieber
7. Jason Welch
74 KG
1. Jordan Burroughs, Lincoln, Neb. (Sunkist Kids/Nebraska Wrestling Training Center)
2. David Taylor, St. Paris, Ohio (Nittany Lion WC)
3. Tyler Caldwell, Stillwater, Okla. (Sunkist Kids)
4. Quinton Godley, Greenville, N.C. (Wolfpack WC)
5. Taylor Massa, St. Johns, Mich. (Cliff Keen WC)
Not as much to say here honestly. It’s quite a defined pecking order here. Jordan Burroughs is a clear favorite who will cruise to the finals. As I mentioned before this weight is relatively thin compared to the weights that surround it. #BurroughsEffect.
David Taylor is going to likely see a familiar nemesis in Tyler Caldwell. I believe a Freestyle matchup better suits Caldwell against Taylor. However, he doesn’t have the offense to hang with Taylor for 6 minutes. His positioning and strength could frustrate DT over time. I see DT figuring him out for a few timely TD’s and maybe a turn for a comfortable win.
So we get a US Open rematch from a year ago with Burroughs and Taylor. I feel like the new match structure is great for both guys. Burroughs can turn a close match into a tech in a heartbeat. When he decides to score in bunches it’s a thing of beauty and it makes the competition look helpless. I think Taylor is a few notches behind still. Look for a comfortable win for Burroughs here and his 4th straight US Open title.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jordan Burroughs
2. David Taylor
3. Tyler Caldwell
4. Taylor Massa
5. Quinton Godley
6. Mitchell Polkowske
7. Logan Molina
86 KG
1. Keith Gavin, Columbus, Ohio (Titan Mercury WC/Ohio RTC)
2. Clayton Foster, Laramie, Wyo. (Cowboy WC/GRIT Athletics)
3. Phil Keddy, Iowa City, Iowa (Titan Mercury WC/Hawkeye WC)
4. Jon Reader, Colorado Springs, Colo. (Sunkist Kids/OTC)
5. Raymond Jordan, Atlanta, Ga. (Sunkist Kids)
6. Ed Ruth, Harrisburg, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
7. Robert Hamlin, Bethlehem, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
8. Enock Francois, New Windsor, N.Y. (West Point WC)
9. Austin Trotman, Boone, N.C. (Titan Mercury WC)
10. Quentin Wright, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
11. Tyrel Todd, Chandler, Ariz. (Sunkist Kids)
12. Bryce Hasseman, Cheektowaga, N.Y. (New York AC)
13. Matt Brown, West Valley City, Utah (Nittany Lion WC)
This weight is no joke either! Possibly one of the most anticipated weights of this tournament. Questions surround many of the entries. Is Clayton Foster ready to follow up an amazing World Cup and take this weight by storm? Is Ed Ruth going to show signs of becoming an elite Freestyler, or will he continue to be a work in progress? Will toss-monster Quentin Wright make waves with his big moves?
There are also many consistent contributors at this weight. Multiple World Team member Keith Gavin and National Champion Jon Reader are seasoned vets who have had success in Freestyle. Reader is relentless with his attacks, but does not have quite the size you’d like to see for a guy wrestling at 86 KG. Gavin is as slick as they come. Not the most breathtaking athlete, but he wrestles well within himself. Drags, shrugs, and leg attacks, Gavin has a lot of ways to beat you based on your pressure.
I think Foster is our best combination of upside, athleticism and experience. I think he’s going to be the guy going forward. I was thoroughly impressed by his body awareness and hips. He’s darn near impossible to take down, and he’s got a variety of beautiful leg attacks. I’ve loved watching Foster since he was in college and always thought he was a great talent. It’s cool seeing him come into his own. The quarters alone are going to be nuts! Don’t miss this weight!
CP’s Top 7:
1. Clayton Foster
2. Jon Reader
3. Keith Gavin
4. Phil Keddy
5. Quentin Wright
6. Ed Ruth
7. Austin Trotman
97 KG
1. J.D. Bergman, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Titan Mercury WC/Ohio RTC)
2. Jake Varner, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
3. Chris Pendleton, Laramie, Wyo. (Titan Mercury WC)
4. Jack Jensen, Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Army)
5. Wynn Michalak, Champaign, Ill. (Titan Mercury WC/Illinois RTC)
6. Deron Winn, Ames, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
7. Cam Simaz, Ithaca, N.Y. (Finger Lakes WC)
8. David Zabriskie, Bethlehem, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
9. Evan Brown, Dubuque, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
10. Micah Burak, Iowa City, Iowa (Hawkeye WC)
11. Cayle Byers, Chugiak, Alaska (Titan Mercury WC)
12. Kyven Gadson, Waterloo, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
13. Ryan Flores, Norman, Okla. (Sooner WC)
The rivalry renewed! Jake Varner and JD Bergman. Honestly, there are a number of other factors in this weight to be considered: Chris Pendleton was amazing last year in the Spring, but couldn’t get it done against Bergman in the World Team Trials.
Bergman has been a pillar of stability here and is probably considered the favorite. He dominated Pendleton in the Trials last year. We didn’t have Varner in the mix last year. If he is in championship form, or close to it, he’s probably the guy to beat.
I would be remiss to not include Wynn Michalak. Wynn got himself on many people’s radar when he knocked off Jake Varner more than a year ago.
I don’t think we’d see Varner if he wasn’t up to snuff, so I like to think he’s going to be the guy here. Though a veteran, Varner is still relatively young in his career. He’s got his ankle picks, single, and pure horse power and I think that’s the difference here.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jake Varner
2. JD Bergman
3. Chris Pendleton
4. Wynn Michalak
5. Cam Simaz
6. Micah Burak
7. Deron Winn
125 KG
1. Tervel Dlagnev, Columbus, Ohio (Sunkist Kids/Ohio RTC)
2. Tyrell Fortune, Portland, Ore. (Titan Mercury WC)
3. Dom Bradley, Columbia, Mo. (Sunkist Kids)
4. Zach Rey, Hopatcong, N.J. (Lehigh Valley AC)
5. Matt Meuleners, Lincoln, Neb. (Titan Mercury WC)
6. Kyle Massey, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
7. Jarod Trice, Mount Pleasant, Mich. (New York AC)
Freaking stoked for this weight. The return of Dom Bradley to defend his US Open title. He had to serve a suspension, but now he’s back. I thought he looked great at the Open and seemed to give Dlagnev problems with his strength and athleticism. I think there’s a drop off after the top 4 seeds here. Rey has been active on the circuit and has made strides off of his sterling NCAA career.
Tyrell Fortune is not someone you want to miss. Big moves are never far off when he’s involved. Known for his lateral drops (check out his match with Tony Nelson last year) he can throw with the best of them. I don’t see him having that success against guys like Tervel and Dom, but anybody else is fair game!
I still like Tervel here. On any given day he can be one of the best wrestlers on the planet at 125. He brings unparalleled motion and leg attacks, coupled with uncanny scrambling ability.
CP’s Top 7
1. Tervel Dlagnev
2. Dom Bradley
3. Tyrell Fortune
4. Zach Rey
5. Jarod Trice
6. Matt Meulners
7. Connor Medbery
Christian Pyles
8 weights. Storylines and stars run thick through each. Our Nation’s finest Freestyler’s head to Vegas in pursuit of a National Title and spot in the World Team Trials Finals.
We’ve got a rich combination of young blood, experienced vets and superstars. Jordan Burroughs and Jake Varner represent excellence at the highest levels in our field, both having won Olympic Golds. Contrasting their experience and mettle are guys like Logan Stieber, Ed Ruth and David Taylor. All phenomenal talents, but still looking to break through for a US Open title.
I’ll go through the weights, list the contenders and how I see the weights going. I’ll do the best I can with predictions, but it’s quite tough doing this without the seeds done or brackets drawn. So there’s some guess work. I’ll order it with the guys I think will do the best and let the chips fall where they may! I’ll predict the top 7, as they are automatically given a spot at the World Team Trials.
57 KG-Pre Seeds
1. Angel Escobedo, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
2. Andrew Hochstrasser, Boise, Idaho (Titan Mercury WC)
3. Tyler Graff, Loveland, Colo. (New York AC)
4. Sam Hazewinkel, Norman, Okla. (Sunkist Kids)
5. Brandon Precin, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
6. Frank Perrelli, Itahca, N.Y. (New York AC)
7. Zach Sanders, Minneapolis, Minn. (Minnesota Storm)
8. Brad Pataky, West Point, N.Y. (New York AC)
9. Kyle Hutter, Norfolk, Va. (Titan Mercury WC)
10. Steve Mytych, Coplay, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
11. Dan Mitcheff, Kent, Ohio (NEORTC)
12. Mark McKnight, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
13. Ryan Mango, Palo Alto, Calif. (Cardinal WC)
Right now Angel Escobedo looks like the man to beat. Training in Columbus Ohio at the ORTC, Angel has flourished into one of our most talented and experienced lightweights. I believe he has widened the gap from a guy like Sam Hazewinkel, a skilled veteran who may or may not be drifting further from his prime. Haze is not someone who can be counted out due to his experience and mat savvy, but I think someone like Angel is a bad matchup for him. Escobedo’s attacks are so diverse and quick, that I think a guy like Haze will struggle to counter.
Andrew Hochstrasser has made his mark as one of the tougher 57s in the United States. Hoch has great size and length for this weight and always has used it well. Great motor and tough defense epitomize what makes him a threat at this weight. Speaking of great motors, Mark Mcknight is a guy that never stops coming! He’s not the most refined guys, but he uses pace and motion well to open guys up. Zach Sanders will probably be a bit undersized (which really is nothing new for him) at 57 KG. However, the new match structure with 2 3 minute periods should help the Minnesota dynamo. Known for his vast arsenal and breakneck pace, Sanders is a guy you have to watch out for in this weight.
I’m paying special attention to all the guys in the Cliff Keen Wrestling Club. Listening to Andy Hrovat and Jake Herbert talk about training has my interest piqued! Brandon Precin returns to the midwest and is now training with the CKWC. Look for him to continue to progress and as always, WATCH THE DUMP! Ryan Mango will look to leave the family business of Greco and try his hand at Freestyle. Another crazy matchup for anyone. His big move potential is unparalleled at this weight.
A late and extremely intriguing addition to 57 KG is Tyler Graff. If he can adjust to the lower weight he may be the guy to beat. He’s that good. He’s always been a stud, especially at Freestyle. Tyler is very difficult to takedown and his single leg is completely lethal.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Tyler Graff
2. Angel Escobedo
3. Sam Hazewinkel
4. Andrew Hochstrasser
5. Brandon Precin
6. Frank Perelli
7. Zach Sanders
61 KG
1. Jimmy Kennedy, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
2. B.J. Futrell, Ann Arbor, Mich. (Titan Mercury WC/Cliff Keen WC)
3. Coleman Scott, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC/Cowboy RTC)
4. Matt McDonough, Iowa City, Iowa (Hawkeye WC)
5. Joe Colon, Cedar Falls, Iowa (Panther WC)
Some SERIOUS firepower considering this is a non-Olympic weight. Coleman Scott threw his hat in the ring late in the game. The Olympic Bronze Medalist has to be considered an odds on favorite if he’s on his game. His attacks are varied and crisp. Nobody can match his arsenal and offense when he’s clicking.
BJ Futrell may be hotter than anyone right now. He’s been lights out and recently knocked off an Olympic Bronze medalist. He’s been training at the Cliff Keen Wrestling Club, which could potentially set up an all CKWC final between Kennedy and Futrell if the seeds hold.
Jimmy Kennedy has been phenomenal of late and has notched some big time wins over the last year. Knocking off Reece Humphrey and Logan Stieber within the last year shows how close the former Illini All American is from breaking through.
It’ll be interesting to see how a guy like Joe Colon translates to Freestyle. Part of me thinks he’ll be underhooking guys and just running them off the mat time and time again. He’s a horse, and an absolute threat here.
Then comes Matt McDonough. I’m not sure I’m ready to put him in the conversation with the best guys here. The drive and spirit will never be a question, but I think a lot of Matt’s style is best catered for Folk and wrestling where he can physically dominate guys. Not sure we’ll see that here.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jimmy Kennedy
2. BJ Futrell
3. Coleman Scott
4. Joe Colon
5. Matt McDonough
6. Darius Little
7. Nick Soto
65 KG
1. Brent Metcalf, Iowa City, Iowa (New York AC/Titan Mercury WC)
2. Kellen Russell, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
3. Jordan Oliver, Stillwater, Okla. (Titan Mercury WC/Cowboy RTC)
4. Reece Humphrey, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
5. Frank Molinaro, New Brunswick, N.J. (Nittany Lion WC)
6. Logan Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (New York AC/Ohio RTC)
7. Jason Chamberlain, Lincoln, Neb. (Titan Mercury WC/Nebraska RTC)
8. Chase Pami, Champaign, Ill. (Sunkist Kids/Illinois RTC)
9. Montell Marion, College Park, Md. (Titan Mercury WC)
Good Lord. This weight is stupid deep. Whoever manages to win this weight will have run an unparalleled gauntlet. The question for me is this: Which one of these guys can turn domestic success into International hardware? Trivia question: Whens that last time we saw a World/Olympic medal at this weight (66?)
Brent Metcalf has been a mainstay at this weight for years never finishing worse than 2nd at a trials the last 4 years. He’s also done well at the US Open. He fell to Jordan Oliver last year in a tight semi-final. However, the new rules make Brent a handful for anyone domestically. Unreal pace, unrelenting attacks and a lethal high crotch and sweep. Brent will be tough to beat.
There are a few guys moving up in weight like Reece Humphrey and Logan Stieber. How will these two Buckeyes transition to the higher weight? Logan has the strength to make a more seamless transition. I’m taking a wait and see approach with Reece but his skills and accolades are well documented.
Kellen Russell (THE GYRO) will look to duplicate his US Open performance a year ago where he won the challenge tournament the day before, then dominated to a title over Jordan Oliver in the US Open finals. When he’s attacking, he’s among the most dangerous at any weight. The problem for Kellen will be his periods of inactivity. He needs to avoid those and keep his foot on the gas. Everyone knows he’s incredibly difficult to score on, but that’s not enough in a weight like this.
Then there’s JO. Oliver is probably the best all around combination at this weight. If he has his tank on point and can wrestle to score for 6 minutes he’ll be darn tough to beat. If he can’t keep it up against a guy like Metcalf, we could see him run away with the title. He’s the best talent, but he’s got to put it together for 2 days.
We will likely see former world team members or national finalists on the outside looking in at this weights top 7. It’s that deep.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Brent Metcalf
2. Jordan Oliver
3. Kellen Russell
4. Logan Stieber
5. Reece Humphrey
6. Frank Molinaro
7. Jason Chamberlain
70 KG
1. Nick Marable, Columbia, Mo. (Sunkist Kids/Missouri RTC)
2. Moza Fay, Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Army)
3. Kevin LeValley, Minneapolis, Minn. (Minnesota Storm)
4. Jason Welch, Evanston, Ill. (Chicago RTC)
5. James Green, Willingboro, N.J. (Titan Mercury WC/Nebraska)
6. Dan Vallimont, Long Beach, N.Y. (Blue & Gold WC)
7. Kyle Ruschell, Madison, Wis. (Badger WC)
8. Adam Hall, New York, N.Y. (Titan Mercury WC)
9. Hunter Stieber, Monroeville, Ohio (Ohio RTC)
10. Nate Carr Jr., College Park, Md. (Titan Mercury WC)
11. Vladyslav Dombrovskiy, Rocklin, Calif. (U.S. Army)
What a field! I’m not saying the talent here is a result of Jordan Burroughs, but I’ll just say this. 70 KG has (by my count) 11 different D1 All Americans, among them there are 2 national finalists( Welch, Vallimont) and a National Champ in Jenkins. 74 KG had 3 D1 All Americans(albeit a BIG 3 in JB, DT and Caldwell). So yeah, get excited.
Nick Marable made everyone say “huh?” when he knocked off Jordan Burroughs earlier this year in Turkey. Marable has been active on the Freestyle scene for some time now, if he can make the weight, he’s the guy to beat here. Marable will never be Mr. Offense, but he’s timely and efficient in his attacks. Couple that with stingy defense, positioning, and Sammie Henson in his ear and you can expect good things from Nick Marable.
James Green may not have the experience, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a guy with more offense than Green. We’ll get to see Jason Welch try his hand at Freestyle. The scrambler from California will put his Freestyle chops to the test here. Not sure what he will bring to the table, but you have to expect entertainment at the very least.
Ultimately I think Marable is going to be too much from an experience and tactical standpoint. As offensively gifted as James Green is, I think Marable will be ready for their potential semi final bout.
On the other side of the bracket look out for Moza Fay to make the finals. Ultimately I don’t see him able to take out Marable.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Nick Marable
2. Moza Fay
3. James Green
4. Dan Vallimont
5. Kevin LeValley
6. Hunter Stieber
7. Jason Welch
74 KG
1. Jordan Burroughs, Lincoln, Neb. (Sunkist Kids/Nebraska Wrestling Training Center)
2. David Taylor, St. Paris, Ohio (Nittany Lion WC)
3. Tyler Caldwell, Stillwater, Okla. (Sunkist Kids)
4. Quinton Godley, Greenville, N.C. (Wolfpack WC)
5. Taylor Massa, St. Johns, Mich. (Cliff Keen WC)
Not as much to say here honestly. It’s quite a defined pecking order here. Jordan Burroughs is a clear favorite who will cruise to the finals. As I mentioned before this weight is relatively thin compared to the weights that surround it. #BurroughsEffect.
David Taylor is going to likely see a familiar nemesis in Tyler Caldwell. I believe a Freestyle matchup better suits Caldwell against Taylor. However, he doesn’t have the offense to hang with Taylor for 6 minutes. His positioning and strength could frustrate DT over time. I see DT figuring him out for a few timely TD’s and maybe a turn for a comfortable win.
So we get a US Open rematch from a year ago with Burroughs and Taylor. I feel like the new match structure is great for both guys. Burroughs can turn a close match into a tech in a heartbeat. When he decides to score in bunches it’s a thing of beauty and it makes the competition look helpless. I think Taylor is a few notches behind still. Look for a comfortable win for Burroughs here and his 4th straight US Open title.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jordan Burroughs
2. David Taylor
3. Tyler Caldwell
4. Taylor Massa
5. Quinton Godley
6. Mitchell Polkowske
7. Logan Molina
86 KG
1. Keith Gavin, Columbus, Ohio (Titan Mercury WC/Ohio RTC)
2. Clayton Foster, Laramie, Wyo. (Cowboy WC/GRIT Athletics)
3. Phil Keddy, Iowa City, Iowa (Titan Mercury WC/Hawkeye WC)
4. Jon Reader, Colorado Springs, Colo. (Sunkist Kids/OTC)
5. Raymond Jordan, Atlanta, Ga. (Sunkist Kids)
6. Ed Ruth, Harrisburg, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
7. Robert Hamlin, Bethlehem, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
8. Enock Francois, New Windsor, N.Y. (West Point WC)
9. Austin Trotman, Boone, N.C. (Titan Mercury WC)
10. Quentin Wright, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
11. Tyrel Todd, Chandler, Ariz. (Sunkist Kids)
12. Bryce Hasseman, Cheektowaga, N.Y. (New York AC)
13. Matt Brown, West Valley City, Utah (Nittany Lion WC)
This weight is no joke either! Possibly one of the most anticipated weights of this tournament. Questions surround many of the entries. Is Clayton Foster ready to follow up an amazing World Cup and take this weight by storm? Is Ed Ruth going to show signs of becoming an elite Freestyler, or will he continue to be a work in progress? Will toss-monster Quentin Wright make waves with his big moves?
There are also many consistent contributors at this weight. Multiple World Team member Keith Gavin and National Champion Jon Reader are seasoned vets who have had success in Freestyle. Reader is relentless with his attacks, but does not have quite the size you’d like to see for a guy wrestling at 86 KG. Gavin is as slick as they come. Not the most breathtaking athlete, but he wrestles well within himself. Drags, shrugs, and leg attacks, Gavin has a lot of ways to beat you based on your pressure.
I think Foster is our best combination of upside, athleticism and experience. I think he’s going to be the guy going forward. I was thoroughly impressed by his body awareness and hips. He’s darn near impossible to take down, and he’s got a variety of beautiful leg attacks. I’ve loved watching Foster since he was in college and always thought he was a great talent. It’s cool seeing him come into his own. The quarters alone are going to be nuts! Don’t miss this weight!
CP’s Top 7:
1. Clayton Foster
2. Jon Reader
3. Keith Gavin
4. Phil Keddy
5. Quentin Wright
6. Ed Ruth
7. Austin Trotman
97 KG
1. J.D. Bergman, Columbus, Ohio (New York AC/Titan Mercury WC/Ohio RTC)
2. Jake Varner, State College, Pa. (Nittany Lion WC)
3. Chris Pendleton, Laramie, Wyo. (Titan Mercury WC)
4. Jack Jensen, Colorado Springs, Colo. (U.S. Army)
5. Wynn Michalak, Champaign, Ill. (Titan Mercury WC/Illinois RTC)
6. Deron Winn, Ames, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
7. Cam Simaz, Ithaca, N.Y. (Finger Lakes WC)
8. David Zabriskie, Bethlehem, Pa. (Lehigh Valley AC)
9. Evan Brown, Dubuque, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
10. Micah Burak, Iowa City, Iowa (Hawkeye WC)
11. Cayle Byers, Chugiak, Alaska (Titan Mercury WC)
12. Kyven Gadson, Waterloo, Iowa (Cyclone WC)
13. Ryan Flores, Norman, Okla. (Sooner WC)
The rivalry renewed! Jake Varner and JD Bergman. Honestly, there are a number of other factors in this weight to be considered: Chris Pendleton was amazing last year in the Spring, but couldn’t get it done against Bergman in the World Team Trials.
Bergman has been a pillar of stability here and is probably considered the favorite. He dominated Pendleton in the Trials last year. We didn’t have Varner in the mix last year. If he is in championship form, or close to it, he’s probably the guy to beat.
I would be remiss to not include Wynn Michalak. Wynn got himself on many people’s radar when he knocked off Jake Varner more than a year ago.
I don’t think we’d see Varner if he wasn’t up to snuff, so I like to think he’s going to be the guy here. Though a veteran, Varner is still relatively young in his career. He’s got his ankle picks, single, and pure horse power and I think that’s the difference here.
CP’s Top 7:
1. Jake Varner
2. JD Bergman
3. Chris Pendleton
4. Wynn Michalak
5. Cam Simaz
6. Micah Burak
7. Deron Winn
125 KG
1. Tervel Dlagnev, Columbus, Ohio (Sunkist Kids/Ohio RTC)
2. Tyrell Fortune, Portland, Ore. (Titan Mercury WC)
3. Dom Bradley, Columbia, Mo. (Sunkist Kids)
4. Zach Rey, Hopatcong, N.J. (Lehigh Valley AC)
5. Matt Meuleners, Lincoln, Neb. (Titan Mercury WC)
6. Kyle Massey, Ann Arbor, Mich. (New York AC/Cliff Keen WC)
7. Jarod Trice, Mount Pleasant, Mich. (New York AC)
Freaking stoked for this weight. The return of Dom Bradley to defend his US Open title. He had to serve a suspension, but now he’s back. I thought he looked great at the Open and seemed to give Dlagnev problems with his strength and athleticism. I think there’s a drop off after the top 4 seeds here. Rey has been active on the circuit and has made strides off of his sterling NCAA career.
Tyrell Fortune is not someone you want to miss. Big moves are never far off when he’s involved. Known for his lateral drops (check out his match with Tony Nelson last year) he can throw with the best of them. I don’t see him having that success against guys like Tervel and Dom, but anybody else is fair game!
I still like Tervel here. On any given day he can be one of the best wrestlers on the planet at 125. He brings unparalleled motion and leg attacks, coupled with uncanny scrambling ability.
CP’s Top 7
1. Tervel Dlagnev
2. Dom Bradley
3. Tyrell Fortune
4. Zach Rey
5. Jarod Trice
6. Matt Meulners
7. Connor Medbery
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