What 27.5 AM tires are you guys running around here? I am looking for something that can be ran tubeless (UST?) and hold up to moderate jumps/drops, but most importantly hold on in the corners/berms. I ride a lot of sherman, Nmeck, WWC, etc. 

For the front I want something between a fast rolling XC tire, and a full blown, heavy DH tire. 
Leaning towards the latter I guess, as I want a grippy front that I can lean into the corners, especially on the hardpark/loose over hard like at sherman. I washed out twice last weekend on some specialized whatevers. Not fun! 

For the rear I just want something fast rolling and relatively durable. Durable enough to handle some decents/drops/jump tubeless. I am a small guy ~140 lbs so was thinking of running something smaller in the rear considering the trails around here.

As far as size, I have my eyes on last years I9 Trail wheels - with a 23.4 inner diameter. What would be the optimal size tire for them? I was thinking 2.35 front with 2.3 rear? 

I ride High Roller II F and R and love them here and in the Brevard

WTB Weirwolf AMTCS 2.3x26.  Absolutely the best tire I have ever ridden bar none.  So much controlled drift and they roll nicely. 
Wet roots are it's downfall.

Check out the specialized butcher control in a 2.3 for the front paired with a purgatory 2.3 in the rear,  tubeless of course.

Specialized ground control 2.3 front
Maxxis icon 3c 2.2 rear

Tons of grip on the front, controlled slide on the rear

29x2.35 Ikon front and rear. everywhere from local to pisgah. 
Washing out is usually more about  lack of weight over front wheel and leaning into the corner. Lean the bike not your body and get your weight over the front. Works for me at least. haven't washed out in years since day I changed what I was doing.