Beyond the Stats: 2024 2A All-Conference Quarterbacks

<p>Quarterbacks are often the heart and soul of a football team, and the 2024 2A All-Conference selections highlight just how true that can be. These prospects didn't just rack up impressive stats — they led their teams with poise, creativity, and sheer talent, turning 2024 into one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. Each quarterback brought their own unique style to the field, making their offenses explosive and their team's contenders. Let's dive into what made these standout players so special.</p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">First-Team</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='704794' first='Uriah' last='Neloms'] is an incredible athlete who proved to be one of the most dynamic players in the 2A conference this season. Over 13 games, he racked up 1,981 passing yards and 894 rushing yards, averaging an impressive 221.2 total yards per game. What sets Neloms apart is his rare combination of size, agility, and arm strength. Standing at 6'4”, he uses his height to see over defenses and deliver strikes downfield, all while maintaining his arm strength even when throwing on the run. His agility makes him nearly impossible to tackle in the open field, effortlessly pulling away from defenders and making would-be tacklers miss. Despite his ability to make big plays, Neloms' high football IQ is evident in the way he controls the offense. Recently signing his letter of intent to play at Arizona State University, he'll join a coaching staff that will undoubtedly utilize his athletic gifts to the fullest potential.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">Sir-Izzik Sánchez Caldwell had a season for the ages in 2024, cementing himself as one of the premier players in 2A football. Across 10 games, he threw for 3,173 yards, averaging a jaw-dropping 317.3 yards per game. His performance against Valley Christian was unreal — 475 passing yards and six touchdowns in a single game showcased everything that makes him special. Caldwell's uncanny ability to stay calm and composed under pressure, extend plays with his legs, and effortlessly launch the ball over the top of the defense really shined this year. He blends that poise with exceptional agility, slipping past defenders and turning broken plays into highlight moments. Whether it's a perfectly placed deep ball or a clutch scramble to extend a drive, Caldwell delivers with a rare smoothness — a true game-changer who thrives in big moments.</p>     <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='368966' first='Sebastian' last='Lopez'] is a dynamic dual-threat quarterback who has proven time and time again that he's a game-changer for Bisbee. While he's still an exceptional runner, racking up 894 rushing yards this season, what truly sets him apart is his ability to keep his eyes downfield. Lopez throws with great rhythm and anticipation, often threading it through tight windows or throwing his receivers open. When the play breaks down, that's when his natural playmaking ability takes over. Whether it's an off-platform throw or a scramble to extend the play, Lopez's quickness and agility make him nearly impossible to bring down behind the line of scrimmage. His best game of the season came against rival Douglas, where he amassed 215 rushing yards, 250 passing yards, and five total touchdowns, showcasing the full range of his game. Lopez's ability to thrive in chaos and deliver in big moments cements his place as one of the most exciting quarterbacks in 2A football.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Second-Team</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Abram Castaneda was the heart of Miami's surgical offense this season. With 1,500 passing yards and 600 rushing yards, he consistently made big plays. Castaneda has a beautiful touch on his deep throws that seem to drop right into the outstretched arms of his receivers nearly every time. His precision through the air kept defenses on their heels, and his mechanics — smooth torso rotation, quick and fluid arm motion, and a strong follow-through — really stood out. Even when the play broke down, Castaneda's quickness and ability to make throws off-platform could get their offense out of bad situations. A sound quarterback with the instincts and skill to keep the ball out of harm's way, Castaneda played with a poise that elevated Miami's offense throughout the season.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Honorable Mention</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">Sean Helgeson guided his team to the 2A State Championship with a steady hand and sharp decision-making. Over the season, he threw for 2,200 yards and 28 touchdowns while keeping turnovers to a minimum with just seven interceptions. Helgeson's command of the offense was apparent all year as he consistently put his receivers in positions to make plays, showing a willingness to throw the ball up and put his trust in them. With a standout running back who won Region Player of the Year, Helgeson was still able to put up impressive numbers by being efficient as a passer. There's no doubt he's a quarterback who can adapt, lead, and excel — and he still has another year to learn and develop.</p>

Quarterbacks are often the heart and soul of a football team, and the 2024 2A All-Conference selections highlight just how true that can be. These prospects didn't just rack up impressive stats — they led their teams with poise, creativity, and sheer talent, turning 2024 into one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory. Each quarterback brought their own unique style to the field, making their offenses explosive and their team's contenders. Let's dive into what made these standout players so special.