Whatton named Big East defensive MVP

By Jose Negron

jnegron@yourmvi.com

Quarterbacks and running backs in Class 3A’s Big East Conference frequently found themselves in a tough situation when facing Elizabeth Forward this season. 

Not only did they have to worry about a fast and physical defensive unit as a whole, but they also had to avoid the grasp of junior defensive lineman Chase Whatton. 

“On the defensive side, he’s so fast off the ball that it literally makes him almost unblockable,” EF head coach Mike Collodi said. “Teams were double-teaming him, they were leaving tight ends in and they were bringing running backs in to block, but it didn’t matter. He just dominated every Friday night.” 

A 6-3, 235-pounder, Whatton put up huge numbers while guiding a defense that allowed a minuscule 12.3 points per game this season. 

Whatton finished second on the team with 68 tackles while collecting a whopping 12 sacks, 29 tackles for loss, five blocked punts and three blocked extra points. 

In addition to being named first-team all-conference at fullback and defensive end, Whatton was rewarded for his strong season by being named the Big East conference’s Most Valuable Defensive Player. 

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