Blue-collar: Miami Southridge defensive lineman Marvin Strong and Emmanuel Belgrave has exceeded exp

By Jerry Williamson Miami Southridge program is a focal point to a bundle of FBS schools across the country that has benefited from the Spartans plug-and-play highly sought after recruits over the past few years.  

But the Spartans defensive coordinator Philip Simpson (pictured above) has done a phenomenal job molding both unheralded and converted prospects, that is thriving from his knowledge, development, and embracing his new tradition with the jersey number 48. The Spartans defensive ends Marvin Strong and Emmanuel Belgrave, have certainly drifted from the shadows and transformed into impact players at their new positions. The jersey number 48 was established by Philip Simpson gave to the player that runs 100 miles-per-hour on each play that will hit anyone in their path on defense and special teams and or course impactful.  

Strong is without question living up to the jersey number followed by FIU soph. linebacker Dimitry Prophete, a senior who earned 131 tackles and registered 24 sacks along with winning the Class 8A state title. Strong who recorded an eye-catching 4.43 forty-yard dash and who is the strongest on the team has posted 42 Tackles, 23 QB pressure, 12 sacks, 3 fumble recovery, 2 forced fumbles, 1 pass breakup, and 1 defensive touchdown vs. stiff competition. 

The hybrid DE/OLB holds one verbal scholarship from Arkansas State and is receiving interest from UNLV, UConn, FAMU, Air Force, Appalachian State, and Bucknell.  

Starting junior defensive end Emmanuel "JoJo" Belgrave (6'2, 190) a converted wide receiver and safety has flourished at his new position. His only media exposure took place two years ago as a Florida Fire 15U offensive standout just to paint a clearer picture. 

This fall, Belgrave has recorded 40 tackles, 8.5 sacks, 2 defensive scores, 3 fumble deliveries, and 1 forced fumble. The Spartans defensive coordinator Philip Simpson is building tradition and raw talent. 

Simpson prior little-known prospect at defensive line was another converted athlete with two years of organized football experience named Dimitry Prophete who wore No. 48 (pictured above).  Prophete (FIU soph. Linebacker) as a senior earned All-Dade 8A-6A Defensive First Team along with 131 tackles and 24 sacks. Marvin Strong and Emmanuel Belgrave are the true definitions of blue-collar workers.