Novi’s Niko Krall is nicknamed the “Wrecking Ball” because he causes so much destruction on the football field. There’s nothing subtle about Oakland County’s leading tackler.
The Wildcats’ senior linebacker embodies the heart and soul of Novi’s hardworking 4-2 football team — his very presence screams execution and tenacity.
Krall (5-10, 215) is a heavy hitter who quarterbacks Novi’s defense and plays much bigger than his actual size.
“Niko might not blow you away at first glance, but boy do you open your eyes and get the picture the second you watch him compete.” Novi head coach Jim Sparks said. “I’ve never coached a more instinctive, intelligent player at his position.”
Two weeks ago, Krall broke Novi’s career-tackle record (248). Krall has recorded a county-best 88 tackles and one sack so far in 2022 through six weeks of the season.
“He’s the linchpin for everything we do on the defensive side of the ball,” Sparks emphatically said. “The kid is a true throwback football player. Our defense and really our whole team has taken on his identity. His teammates respond to him. He is the definition of toughness and dedication.”
Anchored by Krall’s bruising wizardry sideline to sideline, Novi’s defense has allowed less than a touchdown per win in its four victories. Novi has outscored its opponents 69-6 over the last two weeks in 35-0 blanking of Canton and a 34-6 dusting of Plymouth. Krall collected 16 tackles in the Plymouth game.
Dominic to the rescue
South Lyon East (5-1) continues to surge despite losing senior signal caller Nico Campo to an injury in a Week 4 loss to Walled Lake Western. Sophomore field general Dominic Giovannini has stepped in under center at quarterback in Campo’s place and is playing lights out in the pocket. The Cougars are 2-0 with Giovanni as the starter and scored 36 and 35 points respectively in the pair of wins. Giovannini threw three touchdown passes in both games and looks poised for greatness.
Tweet of the Week
“Means intentions” — West Bloomfield junior linebacker Kari Jackson commenting on his highlight reel