Game Balls: Week 2 Quarterbacks

Will Helms September 2, 2025 @ 11:46 AM

Week 2 is in the books, and there's plenty to talk about. I've already looked at some big-picture trends through my <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/08/week-2-friday-night-instant-analysis/">instant analysis</a> and "<a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/09/3-things-we-learned-in-week-2/">Three Things We Learned</a>" pieces. Here, I'm zooming in to look at the individual players who put on top performances last week. These could go to stat monsters, clutch performers, or even guys who simply broke out and helped their team to a win.   Here we go. Take a look as we hand out game balls to the best quarterbacks of the week.   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Week 2 Game Balls: Quarterbacks</h2>   [player_tooltip player_id='1144640' first='Ely' last='Hamrick'], Crest   Hamrick's numbers won't jump off the page, but he had a fantastic game against a strong Shelby team, helping Crest get to 2-0 in Cleveland County. He completed 15 of 23 passes for 142 yards and once again showed off his legs, running for 100 yards and another touchdown in a close 31-24 win. The Virginia commit has matured as a decision-maker and he's a guy who has the talent to elevate a team in big matchups.   [player_tooltip player_id='1092153' first='Terrance' last='McCormick'], New Bern   Not only did McCormick throw for over 350 yards and three touchdowns on 22 attempts against Eastern NC power Havelock, but his performance in a Week 1 win over New Hanover looks even better after that team looked strong in a shutout win. McCormick has always played on the fringes, a solid starter who hasn't gotten the recognition he probably deserves, despite throwing for nearly 3,000 yards in his career.   [player_tooltip player_id='1305405' first='Jerrell' last='Crawford'], Walkertown   I'll just say it: Walkertown looks scary good, and Crawford is a big reason for that. Friday, he threw for over 300 yards and five touchdowns in a 50-16 win. I've wanted to get the smaller quarterback in an article, and a game ball is thoroughly deserved after another strong performance. Expect Walkertown to make some noise in 3A this season.   [player_tooltip player_id='1604676' first='Weston' last='Michalak'], Ambassador Christian   I scouted Michalak for last week's <a href="https://prepredzone.com/2025/08/freshman-friday-episode-1/">Freshman Friday piece</a>, and then he went out and lit up a fairly decent North Raleigh Christian defense to the tune of 250 yards and five touchdowns. The arm talent is off the charts, and he's showing himself to be a great decision-maker. We haven't released our initial 2029 rankings yet, but spoiler, he'll be there, probably close to the top.   [player_tooltip player_id='1895140' first='Cade' last='Keller'], Watauga   Keller has waited patiently, and he's finally getting his shot as a senior. He's taken advantage too, as he's up to 456 yards on 81% completion through two games. He and the Watauga offense easily dispelled what should be a pretty solid T.C. Roberson defense, with 168 passing yards on 18 attempts, 65 rushing yards on just four rushes, and three total touchdowns.   [player_tooltip player_id='1048930' first='Brody' last='Lowe'], Grimsley   We expect great quarterback play when Grimsley steps onto the field, but Lowe was incredibly impressive in his first career start. I mentioned this earlier in the week, but his 344 passing yards are the most by a Grimsley passer since former star Alonza Barnett in 2021. He was poised, decisive, and effective. I'm not sure how much we'll get to see of the freshman the rest of the year, as [player_tooltip player_id='284090' first='Faizon' last='Brandon'] should be back soon after a thumb injury, but if the Whirlies have to go to their backup, I think they're still in good hands.   We can't recognize players we can't see. Send us stats and film, so we can evaluate you/your players. Want to send this to a friend? Discount code Helms30 will get you 30% off your first billing cycle.

Week 2 is in the books, and there's plenty to talk about. I've already looked at some big-picture trends through my instant analysis and "Three Things We Learned" pieces. Here, I'm zooming in to look at the individual players who put on top performances last week. These could go to stat monsters, clutch performers, or even guys who simply broke out and helped their team to a win.