2026: Freshman Phenoms at Quarterback
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Playing quarterback is incredibly difficult, but these four did it at an incredibly high level during their first year of high school football. Helaman Casuga || QB || 6’1 || 185 || Timpview High School || 2026 Casuga joined a…
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Continue ReadingPlaying quarterback is incredibly difficult, but these four did it at an incredibly high level during their first year of high school football.
Helaman Casuga || QB || 6’1 || 185 || Timpview High School || 2026
Casuga joined a Timpview program in 2022 that was ready to contend for a state championship. Even though he was just a freshman, Casuga would go on to be a key piece to their dominant season. He split reps for most of the year but eventually would win the job and lead the Thunderbirds to the state championship game. Casuga displayed exceptional poise and command of the Timpview offense in his first year playing high school football. He throws a great ball and is incredibly accurate. His ability to make plays in the game’s biggest moments, like he did in the 5A state championship game, has earned him the top spot on our 2026 rankings.
Nate Dahle Nate Dahle 6'0" | 165 lbs | QB Ridgeline | 2026 State UT || QB || 6’0 || 165 || Rideline High School || 2026
Dahle was the Riverhawks starter in 2022 and led his team to the 4A semifinals in just his first year playing high school football. He threw for over 2,307 yards and 18 touchdowns as just a freshman facing varsity defenses last season. Dahle displayed exceptional accuracy on the move with elite ball placement on every throw. He doesn’t get happy feet in the pocket and goes through his progressions at a good pace. In addition, he’s an elite athlete who can scramble for chuck yards when defenses forget to account for his athleticism. Dahle has a strong arm and can rifle in passes to squeeze the ball through tight windows. The Riverhawks starter should be in for a monster sophomore year.
Slade Parker Slade Parker 5'10" | 155 lbs | QB Fremont | 2026 State UT || QB || 5’10 || 155 || Fremont High School || 2026
Parker saw his first game action against one of the state’s top defenses in the Skyridge Falcons in the Silverwolves season opener. He battled hard for his team each game and, in the first round of the playoffs, helped his team get a big upset victory over the Granger Lancers on the road. Parker isn’t afraid to take a hit to make a play for his team and stands tall in the pocket. He displays good pocket awareness and can really let it rip if given time to throw. Parker is a good athlete who can move the chains with his legs. His ability to keep plays alive and make something out of nothing is truly special.
Teki Finau Teki Finau 6'0" | 200 lbs | QB Kearns | 2026 State UT || QB || 6’0 || 200 || Kearns High School || 2026
Finau is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback. He has great vision and does a good job following his blockers on designed runs. Finau also impresses with his shiftiness and breakaway speed. The Cougars quarterback is hard to take down in the pocket or when powering his way for a first down across the goal line. Finau does a good job avoiding pressure and isn’t afraid to get hit in order or make a big throw. He does a great job giving his playmakers chances to make plays on the outside. Finau’s lively arm allows him to make big plays down the field. With what he showcased as just a freshman in 2022, he could develop into one of the state’s best quarterbacks.