"The Relentless Spark That Never Stops Burning"

Zach Banks

@Zach banks

IG: @Zach Banks.

6’2, 182lbs, Class of 2028

Sevier County HS, TN

Zach is a dynamic, fierce, versatile, and relentless athlete who flips the entire feel of a game the moment the ball is snapped. Whether he is flying down the sideline as a smooth route runner or crashing downhill as a fearless tackler, Zach is the kind of two-way force that opponents feel long after the play is over. His speed is explosive, his reactions are lightning quick, and his physicality stands out on a loaded roster. Zach’s effort never drops. His engine runs hot every rep, every series, every game. That level of consistency is what separates him from players at his position. Coaches see a player who gives his all, stays locked in, and plays with a fire that refuses to cool off.

This season, Zach stamped himself as a true impact weapon on both sides of the ball. Offensively, he had 35 catches for 401 yards with 5 touchdowns, showcasing strong hands, good route running, and the ability to flip the field instantly. Defensively, he was a menace with 66 tackles (51 solo), 8 pass breakups, 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery. His biggest improvement has been physicality, which now fuels every part of his game. It helped him dominate matchups, finish plays, and hold his ground under pressure. That competitive growth became vital after the heartbreak of falling short in the 5A State Championship. For Zach, it was more than a tough loss. It became fuel, motivation, and hunger. He came into this offseason determined to work with purpose, strengthen every part of his game, and help lead his team back to the biggest stage.

Zach describes himself as strong, disciplined, and consistent, and that is exactly what shows on film. He reads plays before they unfold, sees formations clearly, studies alignments, tracks the quarterback, and reacts with speed. His football IQ allows him to always be in the right place, and his physical approach ensures he makes the play once he gets there. He blocks with conviction, tackles with strength, and stabilizes possessions by handling the little details that most overlook. Before each snap, he processes splits, leverage, tendencies, and down and distance to gain an advantage. It’s why he jumps routes, disrupts timing, and lands nasty hits that shift momentum.

What sets Zach apart goes beyond skill. He brings leadership, energy, and focus that elevate the players around him. His intensity is contagious, his communication directs traffic, and his calm mindset under pressure keeps the defense grounded. He steps up when the team needs him most and never shies away from big moments. His fire, however, comes from a deeper place. Zach carries his older brother Dorian, who passed away a few years ago, with him every time he steps on the field. Dorian’s dream, work ethic, and path fuel Zach’s drive. That pushes him to chase greatness with everything inside him. It’s the reason he loves this sport. It’s the reason he refuses to give anything less than full effort.

When facing adversity, he stays composed, learns from each moment, and moves on with confidence. That mental strength matches his football ability. His goal is to play D1, and he believes wholeheartedly that he can get there. He knows the path demands relentless work, discipline, and daily consistency. He embraces film, technique, IQ, speed, strength, and schoolwork because he knows they all matter. If D1 doesn’t happen, he would consider D2, but his expectations for himself are clear. He wants to rise, he wants to earn it, and he wants to honor his brother.

A coach can expect maximum effort and focus every time Zach steps on the field. He is physical, dependable, and communicates with clarity. He plays fast, disciplined, and team-first. He will always be the one who shows up early, stays late, and commits to the grind. His advice to younger players shows the same maturity. Believe in yourself, go hard in every moment, stay coachable, lead with effort, and keep your grades strong, being a student athlete with pride.

Zach looks for a school that offers opportunity, development, strong culture, and a true family feel. He values coaches he can trust and a program built on discipline and personal growth. He wants to become a better player and a better man. The best coaching advice he has ever received reminds him to stay consistent, stay coachable, and control what he can control. His head coach, Todd Loveday, instilled those values deeply into him.

He has no offers or interests yet, but with the way he works and the way he impacts games, his time is coming. He is only a sophomore, and the arrow is pointing nowhere but up.

I assess that Zach’s versatility and game-changing energy would immediately elevate a college program. His physical style, football IQ, and relentless motor allow him to contribute in multiple roles. He brings toughness, effort, and leadership that uplift a locker room. Programs looking for a dependable competitor who impacts both sides of the ball will see a player built to strengthen their culture and raise their standard.

Moving forward, Zach is evolving into one of the most complete two-way talents in his class. His hunger to improve, his emotional drive, and his daily consistency will shape a standout upperclassman. With continued growth in strength, speed, and technique, he has the potential to rise on college recruiting radars and make a real mark at the next level. His future is bright, powerful, and fueled by purpose. Stay tuned.