When online scouting services requested a highlight tape from Nate Nix, the Thomas Jefferson linebacker didn't bother to compile his greatest hits. He merely sent the PIAA Class AAA final. Nix had seven tackles, defended two passes and intercepted two others to set up touchdowns in the 56-20 victory against Manheim Central. On one pick, he tipped it to himself and returned it 55 yards. "That helped me out a lot," Nix said. "It showed I'm not just making plays throughout the season, but a lot in one big game. That's what coaches are looking for." Pitt thought enough of Nix to offer a scholarship, and the 6-foot-3, 215-pound senior made a verbal commitment to the Panthers in June before others could follow suit. Nix finished his junior season, his second as a starter, with a team-high 125 tackles (51 solo). That he emerged as a big-time prospect was no surprise to Jaguars coach Bill Cherpak. "All the things he did, I knew he could do," Cherpak said. "It was just a matter of developing into a big-time player. It was about raising his game all the time and being somebody you knew was going to make plays." Nix's athleticism and versatility separate him from other WPIAL linebackers. He plays alongside another Division I prospect, Jason Kolodziej, in the middle of the Jaguars' defense, but he has the lateral quickness to play outside in coverage. "I can be on the complete opposite side of the ball, flow across and get to the ball," Nix said. "You have to see where the flow is going and have quick reaction to get where it's going to be." Nix also is likely to have a quick reaction when his teammates aren't playing to his liking. He has become a respected vocal leader for the Jaguars, who will try to defend their WPIAL and PIAA championships. "He's the type of leader who won't tolerate people not working," Cherpak said. "He wants everybody to be the best. He has definitely brought some attitude and toughness to our team that has rubbed off on everybody." Additional Information:

Nate Nix

School: Thomas Jefferson Height, weight: 6-foot-3, 215 pounds Class: Senior Position: Linebacker Notable: Nix was Thomas Jefferson's leading rusher as a junior, with 168 carries for 868 yards and four touchdowns. He will play fullback this season.

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