Midseason Metrics: Top Sophomore QBs
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As we approach the midway point of the high school football season, certain players have risen above the pack, showcasing skills, talent, and leadership that hint at future greatness. The quarterback position, the most important position in all of sports,…
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Continue ReadingAs we approach the midway point of the high school football season, certain players have risen above the pack, showcasing skills, talent, and leadership that hint at future greatness. The quarterback position, the most important position in all of sports, has seen several standout athletes who are driving their teams forward with remarkable performances. In this analysis, we delve into five C/O ’26 quarterbacks who are making waves at the varsity level, shedding light on their strengths as well as the sheer impact they’re bringing to the game.
Standout Sophomores
Gunner Fagrell Gunner Fagrell 6'1" | 160 lbs | QB Higley | 2026 State AZ
Gunner Fagrell Gunner Fagrell 6'1" | 160 lbs | QB Higley | 2026 State AZ
Gunner Fagrell Gunner Fagrell 6’1″ | 160 lbs | QB Higley | 2026 State AZ , quarterback for Higley, is a revelation this season. From the onset, his impeccable form stands out; it’s textbook and a pleasure to watch. Fagrell’s poise within the pocket is a hallmark of his playstyle, never panicking even when pressure mounts. His ability to keep his eyes downfield as the pocket collapses is indicative of a seasoned player, hinting at great potential. With a big arm, Fagrell consistently delivers accurate deep balls, and his footwork complements his natural throwing talent. Exceptional at throwing on the move, Fagrell’s all-around skills paint the picture of a complete quarterback. It’s no surprise that his game footage is drawing significant attention; his performances are simply mesmerizing.
Donivan Dixon Donivan Dixon 5’10” | 190 lbs | QB Cactus Shadows | 2026 State AZ from Cactus Shadows is proving to be a dominant presence on the field. Showcasing really good arm strength and a great looking ball, Dixon seamlessly fuses technique with raw talent. His exceptional footwork within the pocket provides a stable foundation, allowing him to maneuver the pocket like a savvy veteran of the game. What sets Dixon apart, however, is his duality; not only can he throw a pristine ball, but he’s also a force to be reckoned with as a runner. His innate strength and agility shine through in his running game, with an astonishing 375 yards on just 21 carries this season, averaging a remarkable 17.9 yards per carry. This combination of speed, shiftiness, and football IQ positions him as a unique dual-threat, making him a must-watch talent as the season unfolds.
Joe Yony Jr.
Joe Yony Jr.
Joe Yony Jr. is already making waves at Mohave. While he may not have the strongest arm in the state, his current completion rate of 71.1% demonstrates a maturity in decision-making and incredible accuracy for a player of his age. He has a keen eye for the deep ball but doesn’t recklessly force it, often opting for the more strategic underneath routes. His timely short throws are testament to his command of the offense, and his quick feet ensure he’s rarely throwing from out of position. Additionally, his dual-threat capability is downright scary, with an average of 109 rushing yards per game his swift movements are a sight to behold. As he continues to develop, Yony promises to be a real asset for his team, and for years to come.
Kainan Manna Kainan Manna 5’9″ | 150 lbs | QB Centennial | 2026 State AZ of Centennial has showcased an impressive command of the offense for one of the top teams in the 6A division. Demonstrating a high football IQ, Manna makes smart decisions with the ball, ensuring minimized risks with his throws. His ball placement stands out; he rarely puts the ball where defenders have an easy shot at it. Quick on his feet, Manna can effortlessly dodge defenders, further emphasizing his agility and spatial awareness on the field. Rather than using this skill to rack up rushing yards, he often chooses to keep his eyes downfield and find the open man. His excellent eye discipline complements his skill set, allowing him to fool the top-notch defenses he’s facing. With a great team around him, this sophomore QB is hoping to make some noise through the remaining games and in the Open division playoffs.
Nash Ott Nash Ott 5’10” | 175 lbs | QB Yuma Catholic | 2026 State AZ , the quarterback for Yuma Catholic, has already showcased a commendable level of composure in just four games. His calm presence in the pocket, coupled with his ability to read defenses, puts him steps ahead of many players his age. An admirable completion rate of 61.2% speaks to the accuracy he has in his game, progressing smoothly through his reads. Nash’s footwork is worth noting, working the pocket as it shifts while keeping his eyes downfield has helped him to 950 passing yards. Putting him at 237 yards a game, Ott is a must see through the back half of the season, and into the 4A playoffs.