Northern California Stock Risers

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The high school football season in Northern California has revealed a new wave of emerging talent. These players have elevated their game, turned heads with their performances, and are rapidly climbing recruiting boards. Here's a look at some of NorCal's biggest stock risers making a name for themselves this season.</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">At 6'2” 190 lbs. Melendez is a dual-threat QB that has emerged as a dynamic leader, guiding Woodcreek to an undefeated season so far while earning his first two offers from Bethel and Minot State. He plays with poise and confidence, showing the ability to extend plays with his legs and improvise when the pocket breaks down. His movement within the pocket is controlled and instinctive, allowing him to avoid pressure while keeping his eyes downfield. As a passer, he delivers with solid mechanics and touch, capable of making throws on the run or from different platforms. He's a natural playmaker who thrives when the plays breaks down, using his athleticism and field vision to create. Has the Woodcreek offense rolling right now and is one to watch through the rest of the season.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/_JosiahMelendez/status/1969826304766964200 </div></figure>     <p>Ortiz is a prototypical college level offensive tackle that stands out immediately with his elite size and natural length, providing a true anchor on the edge. He shows solid footwork for his frame with the ability to mirror edge rushers and keep the pocket clean. His reach and hand strength make it difficult for defenders to disengage once locked in. In the run game, he generates movement at the point of attack and uses his frame to seal off lanes effectively. He plays with a physical edge and shows strong finishing ability upon contact. Flashes his athleticism when blocking in space and playing the DL. High upside prospect that has potential as he develops. Picked up his first from Fresno State and could see more offers come in as the season progresses.</p>      <p class="text-gray-700">At 6'2” 200 lbs. Schweitzer brings a strong physical profile paired with high level arm talent, recently earning his first offer from San Jose State. He has a live arm and a smooth, effortless delivery, capable of drive the ball to all areas of the field. Whether on the move or off platform, he maintains velocity and accuracy, making him a threat to deliver in and out of structure. He handles pressure well, showing quick instincts to evade rushers and create second chance throwing lanes. As a ball carrier, he runs with confidence and athleticism, adding another dimension to his game. With his combination of size, arm strength, and playmaking ability, he's a promising QB prospect with clear next level upside. In four games this season, he's completed 66% of his throws for 880 yards and 11 touchdowns adding over 200 yards and three touchdowns on the ground.</p>      <p class="text-gray-700">Tago is a strong edge presence for Patterson that recently earned his initial college offer from Sacramento State. At 6'2” 225 lbs. he brings a balanced pass rush arsenal mixing speed and power effectively to keep blockers off balance. He shows the ability to bend and dip around the edge, flattening to the QB with good body control and short area speed. Good recognition skills to diagnose the play and trigger to the ball. High motor player, he's quick to redirect and chase down plays from the backside and downfield. Whether collapsing the pocket or setting the edge against the run, he plays with urgency and physicality. With his combination of athleticism, technique, and effort he's a rising defensive prospect with strong upside.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/talofa_royo/status/1967387807619727872 </div></figure>     <p class="text-gray-700">Wurm saw his recruitment pick up in a big way throughout August pulling in four offers from Azusa Pacific, Minot State, Lewis & Clark, and Puget Sound. At 6'1” 185 lbs. he's a technically sound safety with a high football IQ that impacts the game in multiple phases. He shows excellent footwork and clean transitions allowing him to stay balanced in coverage and close space quickly. Plays with good eye discipline. His ability to read and react stands out diagnosing plays early and breaking on the ball with speed and confidence. Equally effective in the run game, he fills alley and comes down hill aggressively delivering clean, physical tackles in the open field. Overall, a smart disciplined defender with strong fundamentals and a versatile skillset.</p>   <figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper"> https://twitter.com/MatsenWurm/status/1969483205880447150 </div></figure>