Sportsbeat Top 10: Cambria Heights DE Garrett Jasper

PATTON, Pa (WTAJ) — After an injury-plagued sophomore season, Garrett Jasper became a force on both sides of the ball for Cambria Heights last fall. His versatility on offense and defense made him one of the best in the state.

“He’s a guy that has caught passes for us. He’s blocked. He’s even thrown a pass for us. He runs the ball,” Cambria Heights head coach Jarrod Lewis said. “So just having somebody that versatile and he’s that versatile on defense as well. I mean, he’s we played him at the end last year. We played him at the three tech. We played him at the one tech. He you know, I think I’m I think he could really play any position in the front seven.”

Jasper earned first-team all-state on defense. In his junior season, he recorded 127 tackles, five sacks, and 30.5 tackles for loss as he led a unit that allowed just 13.5 points per game.

“He’s big, he’s strong, he’s got great feet, uses his hands well, you know, he has a number of moves that are that are difficult for offensive linemen,” Lewis said. “And, you know, I think last year he popped up on the scene a little bit because his sophomore year was a little bit injury riddled. He had a solid freshman year last year. He was a pretty special player. So, I’m sure he’s going to command a lot of attention this year.”

On offense, Jasper ran for 286 yards and had 220 receiving yards while scoring seven total touchdowns. Head coach Jarrod Lewis utilized Jasper in multiple ways to keep one of his best players on the field.

“Whether it’s blocking, whether it’s catching a pass, whether it’s running the ball you know, I think he’s critical in that role,” Lewis said. “I think that, you know, we’re looking to Garrett to be a leader this year. He’s a four year starter on offense and a four year starter on defense.”

“Blocking, I know how to attack guys. So, in my head, if I know how to attack guys, I feel like they’re going to come at me,” Jasper said. “Like, so I’m going to have to avoid doing that, you know.”

Cambria Heights had a historic season last year and captured its first District VI Class 1A title in program history. This year, Jasper looks to help the Highlanders make some noise in the PIAA playoffs.

“I think we should be tough, play hard,” Jasper said. “If team plays us, they should remember us because they’re going to get punched in the mouth.”

Cambria Heights opens up the season on the road at River Valley.

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