2026 Zone Read: Upstate Sophomore Stat Sheet Stuffers

Jed Blackwell October 12, 2023 @ 09:00 AM

Typically, sophomores are just finding their varsity footing. They're guys with great size or speed, a bunch of potential, and a ton of upside.   Not these guys. In the Upstate, there are a bunch of guys who are already getting it done, and have been for a couple of years now. Several ranked sophomores aren't just helping their teams, they're leading them. Here's a look at five second-year guys who are keeping statisticians busy.   [player_tooltip player_id='473001' first='Jaylen' last='McGill'], Broome   The top guy in the Upstate is also the top guy in the class. McGill burst onto the scene as a freshman, drew interest from college programs across the country, and has looked even better as a sophomore. He runs with patience, power, speed, and vision, and looks like the total package. He's rushed for 1,219 yards, averages 8.5 yards a carry, and has scored 19 total touchdowns.    [player_tooltip player_id='473029' first='Jaiden' last='McDowell'] RB, Gaffney   McDowell made an impression a year ago, as any freshman who sees the field at RB in an outstanding 5A region will do. He's more than backed it up this season, taking control of the Indians' running game. He's got 806 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns, and he's done it with a combination of speed and power. He's also third on the team with 436 receiving yards, adding three TDs through the air.    [player_tooltip player_id='1025770' first='Cayden' last='Workman'] LB, Eastside   Workman is already a defensive workhorse for the Eagles as a 10th-grader. He's made 60 total tackles, with 11 for loss. He's played well in the Eastside pass rush, with a sack and three hurries, and he's added a forced fumble. Workman can play in the middle or outside, he's a sure tackler, and he's quick to the ball.    [player_tooltip player_id='1025811' first='Jay' last='Stoker'] QB, Easley   Stoker took over the QB job for the Green Wave earlier than expected thanks to a transfer, and he's shown that he's right at home at the controls of the offense. In six games, he's thrown for 1,065 yards and 11 touchdowns, running for three more scores. He's shown presence in the pocket, a big arm, and plenty of ability.    [player_tooltip player_id='1025814' first='Jaiden' last='Taylor'] WR, Riverside   It's possible that there's not a more aptly-nicknamed player in this class. The guy teammates call "Speedy" boasts a 4.4-second 40, and is an absolute burner. He's also the Warriors' leader in receptions (39) and receiving yards (496), and he's caught seven touchdown passes.

Typically, sophomores are just finding their varsity footing. They're guys with great size or speed, a bunch of potential, and a ton of upside.