Carlson named all-state, back of the year as Chargers hand out team awards

Brandon-Evansville senior Cade Carlson wrapped up his Chargers’ football career by piling up a lot of awards that included a 9-man all-state honor.

Carlson was one of three B-E players with Kyle Schaffran and Tyler Bitzan to be named to the all-district team. In team-voted awards that were announced recently, Carlson won the Back of the Year honor after helping to anchor the offense and defense at running back and linebacker.

Carlson led the Chargers in rushing yards at 631 on 128 carries (4.9 YPC). He averaged 105.2 yards-per game as he added a team-leading four touchdowns on the ground. Carlson was also second on the team in total tackles at 31.5.

Schaffran earned two team honors in the Nick Lundeen Dedication Award and the Special Teams Player of the Year Award. He had a knack for making the big play by averaging 30.1 yards per catch on eight receptions. He scored four touchdowns and also had a team-best four pass breakups and two interceptions on defense.

Mike Cochran was named the team’s lineman of the year. Cochran forced two fumbles and recovered two more, while also tying for third on the team with 30 tackles. His eight tackles for a team loss were a team best.

Ben Seifert was the team rookie of the year. Seifert had 9.5 tackles defensively, including 1.5 for loss. He also forced one fumble.

Steve Hamilton was the team scout player of the year, and Logan Haburn earned the Dallas Hanson Desire Award. Haburn had 11.5 total tackles, while Hamilton added 1.5 tackles, including getting in on a tackle for loss.

Brandon-Evansville finished as a Gold Team Academic Award winner for the players’ work in the classroom. Senior quarterback Kobe Reiland was a big part of that as he earned a 9-man academic all-state award.

The Chargers finished their season 3-3 with a young nucleus getting some experience at the varsity level.