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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — We've all been there, watching a football game, holding our breath after one of those bone-crushing hits that makes you leap out of your chair.

For years, the conversation around football and serious head, neck and spine injuries has been front and center. There have been major strides at the college and professional levels to protect players.

But the question remains: Is that same attention being paid to high school athletes?

The data and stories suggest there's still a long way to go.

It was Julius Byers' first high school football game this past September. He subbed in, lined up as a cornerback and made what looked like a routine tackle.

"I remember getting off the block, I get hit, and then I kind of like blacked out

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