5A’s Finest: Top Quarterback Showings
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In the fiercely competitive 5A division, where every snap counts and a single play can have playoff implications, seven quarterbacks emerged from the pack this week, delivering performances that were nothing short of mesmerizing. Each brought a unique blend of…
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Continue ReadingIn the fiercely competitive 5A division, where every snap counts and a single play can have playoff implications, seven quarterbacks emerged from the pack this week, delivering performances that were nothing short of mesmerizing. Each brought a unique blend of skill, accuracy, agility, and football IQ to the gridiron; reminding us why Friday nights under the lights are such a spectacle.
Week 7 Top QB Performances
Charlie LeVinus Charlie LeVinus 6’2″ | 190 lbs | QB Paradise Valley | 2025 State AZ from Paradise Valley turned heads with his stellar performance this week, amassing over 400 passing yards with 4 TDs. But those stats only tell half the story. On the field, LeVinus has a game that’s pure football artistry. His throws, especially on the run, resonate with raw power and precision, delivering spirals that are both beautiful and effortlessly catchable. The added 90 rushing yards and a touchdown underscore his versatility as a dual-threat QB. His keen sense of the pocket, combined with his elusiveness, help him to avoid would-be sacks with ease. The unwavering trust he places in his receivers, throwing them open and giving them opportunities, speaks volumes about his football IQ. With performances like this, both LeVinus and Paradise Valley are ones to keep our eye on as we near the playoffs.
Sunnyslope’s Luke Moga Luke Moga 6’2″ | 190 lbs | QB Sunnyslope | 2024 State AZ is a quarterback who defies the traditional mold of a pocket passer. Impressive top-end speed for his frame, paired with a nimble elusiveness allows him to navigate the field with a finesse that’s hard to match. Couple that with impeccable footwork, and you’ve got a quarterback who can dance around defenders as skillfully as he can launch a deep ball. Moga’s quick decision-making and remarkable arm strength make him a lethal weapon on the gridiron. But beyond his physical prowess, what stands out is his intangible grit and leadership. It’s evident that his teammates draw energy from him, looking to their QB in moments of uncertainty. Moga embodies commitment and isn’t hesitant to lay it all out on the field, often putting his body on the line for the sake of the play. Given these attributes, it’s no surprise he’s garnered attention from elite programs, sealing a commitment to a top school in Oregon.
Highlights
Antonio Casias Antonio Casias 6’0″ | 165 lbs | QB Cactus | 2026 State AZ , the dynamic Cactus QB, shone brightest when he stepped outside the pocket. His ability to deliver accurate throws on the run was on full display, expertly discerning when to finesse a touch pass or rifle it through a tight window. He’s a tad eager to escape the pocket, even if he possesses the agility to do so masterfully; by staying in the pocket a little bit longer, he could elevate his passing game even more. This agility isn’t just about evading tackles; Casias skillfully contributes to the offense with his legs, whether it’s a broken play, or by design. When he’s working with a clean pocket, it’s evident that Casias meticulously cycles through his progressions, showcasing his understanding of the game. His elusiveness, which seems almost second nature, doesn’t just dazzle fans—it genuinely disrupts defensive schemes. Casias is a quarterback who’s game would translate nicely to the next level.
Beau Devens Beau Devens 6’4″ | 195 lbs | QB Canyon View | 2024 State AZ , helming the position for Canyon View, certainly made a statement, even in the unfortunate loss to Millennium. Boasting 354 yards with a whopping 5 touchdowns, Devens’ arm strength was on display all night, and it stole the show. While his slightly short-arm throwing motion might raise eyebrows for some purists, any critiques are swiftly silenced by his lightning-quick delivery. When you pair that speed with his formidable arm power, the ball gets to his receivers in a hurry. Particularly impressive is Devens’ pinpoint accuracy outside the numbers, consistently placing his receivers in great spots to capitalize and make big plays. Throughout the game, his unwavering trust in his receiving corps was evident. Instead of zeroing in on a favorite target, Devens kept the defense guessing by spreading the ball around, ensuring every potential playmaker got a piece of the action. This kind of leadership and on-field vision makes Beau Devens Beau Devens 6’4″ | 195 lbs | QB Canyon View | 2024 State AZ a talent that can’t be overlooked.
Highlights
Dominic Norris
Dominic Norris
Dominic Norris of Ironwood Ridge dazzled with a jaw-dropping performance, racking up over 500 yards through the air. With his tall, lanky frame, he exudes an almost serene calmness in the pocket, showing the confidence of a seasoned player. Throughout the game, Norris displayed an uncanny knack for decision-making, seemingly always knowing where he was going with the ball by the time he got the snap. His touch on the deep balls was nothing short of artistry, balancing finesse and precision. With the impressive calmness in the pocket, Norris occasionally finds himself flat-footed in there, a minor hiccup in an otherwise stellar display. He has a keen sense for incoming rushes, sidestepping with ease and advancing in the pocket all while keeping his focus locked onto his receivers. Norris certainly isn’t afraid to take risks, never shying away from the opportunity to launch a daring shot downfield, reminding everyone of the depth of his arsenal.
Luke Haugo Luke Haugo 6’5″ | 210 lbs | QB Higley | 2025 State AZ , the Higley quarterback, is making waves in his short time since becoming eligible to play after a transfer. After an impressive start to the season from the sophomore QB who was keeping his seat warm, I was intrigued to see how he performed early on. He did not disappoint! With his astonishingly quick release, he zips the ball to his receivers effortlessly. His snap decisions on the field not only highlight his physical capabilities but also underscore a mature football mind. Haugo possesses a silky touch on the deep throws, and his ability to confidently step up in the pocket while maintaining focus downfield is a testament to his top-tier skills. When moving around the pocket he has great rhythm and feel which is crucial at the next level. His accuracy was exemplified by a fade route he threw to the corner of the endzone for a touchdown. The pass was a thing of beauty, just out of the defender’s grasp while perfectly within reach for his receiver. Haugo’s patience is something rare; he has a unique ability to let plays unfold, giving his receivers that extra second to break free while he fluidly moves within the pocket. As he continues to gel with the offense, I’ll be taking a close note to see how it continues to improve.
Highlights
Jose Cardona Jr.
Jose Cardona Jr.
Jose Cardona Jr., the standout sophomore QB for Maricopa, delivered a remarkable performance, firing off 5 TDs with a commanding 75% completion rate. From the get-go, it’s his footwork that grabs your attention. Whether he’s navigating the pocket or rolling out, Cardona moves with a dancer’s grace and an athlete’s precision. His quick-twitch agility is nothing short of exceptional, showcasing an uncanny ability to start, stop, and reach top speed in the blink of an eye. This explosive maneuverability makes him a nightmare for defenses closing in for a sack. When Cardona takes off running, his confidence in throwing on the move is top-tier. Regardless of whether he’s sprinting full speed towards the sideline or adjusting his arm angle on the fly, his throws maintain a consistent accuracy. He also makes smart decisions to keep the ball out of harm’s way, ensuring that, for the most part, risky turnovers are kept at bay. With years left to improve, Cardona is already a top QB to watch in his class.