Which Quarterbacks Could Take a Big Step Forward as Seniors?
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Today, I wanted to look at which 2024 quarterbacks I think could take a big step forward this fall. These young men have flashed upside on tape and some even put together some impressive statistical numbers in 2022. However, I…
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Continue ReadingToday, I wanted to look at which 2024 quarterbacks I think could take a big step forward this fall. These young men have flashed upside on tape and some even put together some impressive statistical numbers in 2022. However, I think they got more in the tank and could develop nicely this fall & be among Illinois’ top signal-callers in the 2024 class.
If you have someone you think I need to see, please DM them to me at @hsfbscout on Twitter!
Freedom Ali, 6’1″ 190, Loyola
Not a ton of experience, but when he got his chance he shined. He’s super mobile, is a physical runner between the tackles, puts enough air under his deep ball for his target to run right under it, and is one tough customer.
Michael Champagne Michael Champagne 5'10" | 160 lbs | QB Glenbard South | 2024 State IL , 5’9″ 150, Glenbard South
Not the biggest guy out there, but the first thing that jumps out to you on tape is the raw arm talent. Michael is accurate on-platform or off-it, he can thread the needle between two defenders and does a good job transitioning his body weight from his back leg to his upper half.
Logan Smith, 5’11” 165, St. Joseph-Ogden
A spread quarterback with a live arm, excellent third-level touch, and the ability to buy time when the pocket collapses. He’s got a bit of a backyard playing style that forces defenders to lock on when he’s outside the pocket.
Johnny Weber, 6’5″ 190, Carmel
Weber has good size, calm feet, great awareness inside the pocket, and consistently throws a catchable ball within the framework. He’s not afraid to tuck it and run if nothing presents itself downfield and has a quick set-up for called RPOs.
Jason Penza Jason Penza 6'2" | 185 lbs | QB Crystal Lake Central | 2024 State IL , 6’2″ 185, Crystal Lake Central
Penza has a twitchy upper half, he uses his eyes to move opposing safeties and can generate high velocity on short-intermediate throws. He shows excellent anticipation and has some speed that can be utilized on called quarterback runs.
Braden Tischer Braden Tischer 5'11" | 160 lbs | QB Lincoln Way East | 2024 State IL , 5’10” 170, Lincoln Way-East
A winner with excellent athletic ability and a competitive on-field nature. He’s slippery inside the pocket, can process quickly, shows pinpoint accuracy, and has filthy change of direction. He’s such an exciting prospect to watch on tape and was a key cog for East’s runner-up finish in 8A.
Dennis Mandala Dennis Mandala 5'10" | 170 lbs | QB IC Catholic | 2024 State IL , 5’10” 170, IC Catholic
He finds the holes in zone coverage & will eat them up, he knows how to manipulate defenders, and can throw out of awkward arm slots. Dennis squares his shoulders when throwing on the move and does a good job working to his second & third reads in his progression.