Hidden Gems: Southern AZ

Some low-key guys down in southern AZ are looking to make a major impact in 2022, and I really like what I saw on tape from these guys. Here's a look at 5 hidden gems to know from southern AZ schools: [caption id="attachment_310826" align="alignright" width="300"]<img class="size-medium wp-image-310826" src="https://prephoops-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/redzone/uploads/2022/03/PRZ-Generic-Grayprznm-1-300x187.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="187" /> Photo: Prep Redzone[/caption] &nbsp; [player_tooltip player_id="110093" first="Tyler" last="Mustain"], <em>LB, Pusch Ridge ’23</em> I really like Mustain’s athleticism and play strength within his 6’2" 215lb frame, and he still has room to add mass. He does a good job with play rec overall to identify and fill opening alleys. He does a solid job shedding blocks and holds a good center of gravity to be able to put himself in position to make plays while engaged with an opponent. Love his understanding of angles combined with his striking ability. Pretty good pursuit with a huge upside in 3A ball heading into 2022. &nbsp; [player_tooltip player_id="214111" first="Elijah" last="Joplin"], <em>QB, Marana ’23</em> Joplin is a very under looked playmaker behind center that racked up 41 total TD's in 2021. He does a terrific job extending plays when the pocket breaks down or during coverage sacks, and holds instant big play ability when he takes off. Solid arm strength to stretch the field as he did a good job putting air underneath it and throwing with touch. I like his ability to identify favorable matchups on the outside, contributing to his football IQ. Overall, a dual-threat escape artist that is prone for a big year in 2022 both in the air and on the ground. https://twitter.com/joplin_elijah/status/1495822058428764166?s=20&amp;t=ji6nLOEjf8go44ZInCTMhQ [player_tooltip player_id="214119" first="Cristian" last="Pando"], <em>RB, Wilcox ’23</em> Pando put himself on the map in 2021 by rushing for over 1,600 yards and 27 TD's. He's a north-south type back that brings physicality to every run, and is a nightmare to tackle 1v1. He runs angry with the demeanor to run through opponents, and has shown to finish long runs. Excellent ball security as he totaled only 1 fumble on 228 attempts (most in 2A) last season. Stout frame and build at 5'10" 185lbs with workhorse ability at the 2A level, as he projects to have another big year and be a top rusher in 2A once again. &nbsp; [player_tooltip player_id="110156" first="Brysen" last="Barrios"], <em>ATH, Pusch Ridge ’23</em> Barrios comes off a short 2021 season due to transferring over to PRCA from Ironwood Ridge. He is an example of a kid who does those little things right, holding a 4.3 GPA and consistently working in the offseason, but has tended to get overlooked due to his size (5’6" 165lbs). He possesses active feet with good transition while having that quick twitch to set up routes well or put moves on an opponent. Good burst with nice all-around athleticism that can translate to multiple dimensions of the game. Look for Barrios to be a new name to get loose down south in 2022. https://twitter.com/Brysen_Barrios/status/1453914471575941120?s=20&amp;t=fr5aQvcz2xgm2Rf8_3zTGw [player_tooltip player_id="110101" first="Jarred" last="Marquez"],<em> LB, Yuma Catholic ’23</em> Marquez is an impressive kid who projects to be the key player on that YC defense. He's a well polished LB that plays with intensity and holds that competitive toughness. Excellent play strength as he does a great job closing on opponents and is strong at the POA with explosiveness through the hips. Good lateral mobility and athleticism within his 6'2" 210lb frame. He does a good job understanding zone responsibilities in coverage, and can be productive in every scheme. A technically sound LB with the ability to make a difference in all phases of the game, as I wouldn't be surprised to see him bring in some D1 attention.