Player Breakdown: Raudy Minaya

From time to time, we like to take closer look at the players who are turning heads around the state.  Today, we'll go more in depth in our assessment of Methuen senior wide receiver Raudy Minaya.  Raudy has been electrifying, posting solid numbers against every team he's faced this year.  Here is why Raudy is so intriguing, however: he is still very, very raw, and with time (and commitment), all of the below mentioned aspects can and will improve.  We'll look at five key aspects of his game: Route Running, Ball Skills, Hands, Down Field Blocking, and Speed.

• Route Running - Solid off the line and throughout his routes.  Not in the Reeves/Rodgers class quite yet, but hs the ability is there.  The post is his most impressive route.  He is able to take away the cushion with his speed, then his break is precise.  He also does a good job keeping his angle on this particular route when coming out of the cut.  Also has little wasted motion, which is a great sign.  Room for improvement, but a solid base.  GRADE: B/B-
• Ball Skills - It's clear he is  a basketball player.  He isn't afraid to go up for the ball.  As he catches more and more deep balls, he'll become more comfortable going up, but he is fearless, and has great leaping ability.  This will eventually be the strong point of his game.  GRADE: B+
• Hands - Solid in this area.  He can catch the ball away from his body, and always stands tall (stays sturdy, does not shy away from a hard thrown pass).  Sometimes has the tendency to catch it with his pads, but has the instincts, ability, and athleticism to train himself to break that habit.  Overall a solid area.  GRADE: B
• Downfield Blocking - I like this part of his game.  He will lock onto a defensive back and has the ability and strength to take him out of the play.  He's an asset to quarterback Cam Carroll and running back Ryan Savastano because he can give them one less player to worry about when executing their zone read.  Tough kid.  GRADE: B+
• Speed - Another strong point.  Raudy is hell to cover for 95% of the corners he'll face.  He accelerates beautifully, and doesn't need to waste time and energy with an extra move when running the "go" route.  He could use a little work exploding off the line, but that is purely an experience problem.  Once it's fixed, he'll be up there with the most dynamic play makers in the state.  GRADE: B/B+
• The Bottom Line - Raudy has a room for improvement, but an incredibly high ceiling.  He is a scholarship athlete with all the tools needed to be a play maker at the next level.  Time will tell, but right now I have him as the biggest sleeper in this year's receiving class.  He could make some school very, very happy.