Shultz, Smith earn All-State honors

Jacob Shultz, the APL Defensive Player of the Year, makes one of his four sacks vs. L.A. Pierce on Oct. 19. (Photo by PJ Heller/Sevilla Photography)
Jacob Shultz, the APL Defensive Player of the Year, makes one of his four sacks vs. L.A. Pierce on Oct. 19. (Photo by PJ Heller/Sevilla Photography)

Jacob Shultz and Jaylon Smith have been named to the All-State Region IV football team.

Shultz, a 6-5, 225-pound sophomore from Eugene, Ore., was the Defensive Player of the Year in the American Pacific League. The defensive end led the APL in tackles (71) and tackles for loss (20.5) and was third in sacks (8.5). He was 21st in the state in tackles and ninth in tackles for loss.

    2019 All-American & All-State Teams

After getting just one sack in his first five games, Shultz had a breakout game in the APL opener. He had nine tackles (six solo) and four sacks in a 35-16 rout of L.A. Pierce. He also had a 70-yard fumble return for a touchdown and was named SCFA American Division Player of the Week.

"Jake had an outstanding season, leading our defense and was a disruptive force on opposing offenses," said SBCC coach Craig Moropoulos. "He was very difficult to block with his athletic ability and speed. He was a redshirt last season and was extremely hard to block on the 'scout' team for our offense."

Smith, a 6-foot freshman wide receiver from Mobile, Ala., made the All-State defensive team as the kick returner. He was No. 7 in the state, averaging 29.5 yards per return with a long of 65 yards vs. No. 12 Canyons in Week 3.

"Jaylon is extremely talented and explosive," said Moropoulos. "He has 'big play' capability every time he touches the ball. Speed and strength are his assets."