The 2025 Breakout Player of the Year from All 50 States
In this article:
The regular season is wrapping up around the country, and playoff football is on the way. Before state champions are crowned, our scouts looked back on the regular season to spotlight the breakout player of the year in every state:
Keoni has been a force up front for one of the top teams in the state, setting the tone with his energy and athleticism. He's a versatile pass rusher who wins with quickness off the line and the ability to adjust mid-rush to find an angle on the quarterback. His athletic ceiling is high, and he's already started to turn heads because of it.
After picking up plenty of college interest in the offseason, Keoni has taken on a larger role this year and delivered in a big way. He's proving he can be a consistent difference-maker in the trenches, combining effort, explosiveness, and playmaking instincts every time he's on the field.
- Contributed by Cooper Morreale
Highlights
Alaska
Manny Maga
Manny Maga
Just a junior, Maga has been a key piece in West Anchorage's strong season, rushing for nearly 700 yards while helping the Eagles to a 6-1 record. Maga runs with a compact frame and excellent balance, keeping his feet churning through contact and consistently falling forward for extra yards.
He's tough between the tackles but also a reliable threat in the screen game, showing patience and awareness as he follows his blockers downfield. Maga's blend of strength, vision, and effort has made him one of the most dependable offensive weapons in Alaska this season.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Roye Oliver III went from a “remember-the-name” freshman to THE name in Arizona football this fall, on pace for one of the most productive receiving seasons the state's ever seen.
He's a polished route-runner with rare body control and absurd hand strength. Every rep shows next-level maturity — he beats press, tracks deep balls effortlessly, and plays with the confidence and composure of a future Power Four star.
- Contributed by Hunter Tierney
Highlights
Austin has taken a major leap from his Junior season as he currently leads the state of Arkansas in receiving yards. Riggs is a threat post-catch, immediately gets upfield and will make defenders miss in space. Sure-handed and a smooth route-runner. Can adjust mid-route and high point the football effectively. He gives an offense a wide range of play calling.
- Contributed by Colton Edwards
Highlights
Wes is a downhill, north and south runner who has been punishing defenses all year. He's put up unreal numbers so far this season with over 2,000 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns, proving himself to be one of the best overall players in Northern California.
Committed to Air Force, he's helping secure Oakdale's place as one of the top playoff seeds with his work on both sides of the ball as a two-way warrior.
- Contributed by Paul Gregorian
Highlights
Cherry Creek's offense has been rolling this season, and junior running back Jayden Fox has been at the center of it. With 1,128 rushing yards on just 70 carries, Fox has been nothing short of explosive. His track speed jumps off the tape. Once he hits the second level, it's usually over. He's already ripped off multiple runs of 60 yards or more, showing the kind of burst that separates him from most backs in the state.
While Cherry Creek's offensive line is one of the best in Colorado, Fox's vision and acceleration make him the perfect fit behind it. He reads blocks with patience, finds the crease, and often turns it into a home run.
Recently decommitted from UConn and holding an offer from Boise State, Fox has quickly become one of the most intriguing prospects in Colorado's 2025 class.
- Contributed by Robert Davis
Highlights
Connecticut
Introducing Ben Noome: A rising star in High School Football.
Get ready to pay attention, football enthusiasts and college recruiters alike. Ben Noome, a large talent emerging from Joel Barlow High School, Connecticut, is a player you're going to want on your radar. Standing an impressive 6'8″ and weighing 295 pounds, this large-framed prospect plays both defensive and offensive line positions with an undeniable flair that sets him apart from his peers.
Having shone on the field, Ben is a key player on the Falcons' offensive line, significantly bolstering their rushing attack. His sheer size and skill enable him to command the game, creating opportunities for his teammates.
But it's on the defensive side where Noome truly makes his mark. Last season, he racked up an impressive 44 tackles—including 12 tackles for a loss!—showcasing not just his ability to disrupt plays, but also his exceptional gap integrity and physicality at the point of attack.
What makes him exciting is his first-step quickness. His ability to get off the line rather quickly gives him a rare agility that many players at his height simply do not possess. And let's not forget, this athlete is also a basketball player! His solid length in both arms and legs adds another layer of versatility to his game, making him a formidable opponent on any field.
- Contributed by Roger Silva
Highlights
Delaware
Jones is a dynamic two-way athlete who finds ways to impact the game on both sides of the ball. Defensively, he's a confident corner who tackles well in space and shows sharp instincts in zone coverage. He breaks on the football with timing and isn't afraid to mix it up physically on the perimeter.
On offense, Denzel brings that same competitive edge. He's productive from the slot, making contested catches and consistently turning short passes into chunk gains. His combination of ball skills, quickness, and toughness makes him a valuable piece in any game plan, a true playmaker who delivers whenever he's involved in a play.
- Contributed by Chad Graham
Highlights
In a state loaded with elite football talent and Power 4 prospects, when a sophomore steals the show, you know he is indeed special.
The son of one-time Notre Dame captain and San Francisco 49ers standout running back Marc Edwards, this impressive three-sport (Football, Lacrosse & Basketball) standout has truly taken Florida by storm this season with his running and catching out of the backfield.
Leading the 8-1 Bulldogs to one of the top seeds in the upcoming state playoffs, his 1,663 yards and 25 touchdowns have put him at the top of the statistical charts and has made him one of most sought-after underclassmen in the country. Part of that head-turning production includes a state record 522-yard, 8 touchdown game earlier this season.
X - @Edwards17Xander
Instagram - @xand3r_44
- Contributed by Larry Blustein
Highlights
Mason Hollingsworth (Whitefield Academy) has contributed each year on varsity, improving each year before his ultimate explosion as one of the most productive players in GA this fall.
Hollingsworth is tall and lean with the ability to create his own yards with subtle shifts and change of direction. His competition had trouble catching him when he broke free.
He projects out as a dynamic size-speed threat at the RB position and should carry his best ball with him to the college ranks.
- Contributed by Connor Jackson
Highlights
Hawaii
Alani "AJ" Tuifua
Alani "AJ" Tuifua
Tuifua's highlights stand out in Damien Memorial's high-scoring offense. At 6'2" and 240 pounds, he packs a punch when he pulls the ball down and gets outside the pocket. Second and third-level defenders don't want a piece of him downhill.
In the passing game, he can adjust arm angles to get rid of the ball quickly and accurately, while also launching deep balls off-platform for chunk plays.
He was a third-team all-stater as a junior, and has taken his game to new levels this season.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Titus has broken out this year with huge numbers through his team's 9 games. 2,200+ yards passing, 30 TD's through the air, with 661 yards and another 8 scores with his legs.
He's an impactful dual-threat QB with a strong arm, snappy release and tight mechanics.
He can throw on the run and buy time with his legs/make off-platform throws, make plays under pressure in the pocket, and really has that “it” factor. Titus is a baller!
- Contributed by Paul Gregorian
Highlights
Ohimai Ozolua
Ohimai Ozolua
At 6'5” and 255 pounds, Ozolua has been one of the biggest breakout stories in his class, going from an under-the-radar prospect to earning multiple Power Four offers as a junior.
He's explosive off the line with great bend for his size, showing the ability to turn the corner and get after the quarterback.
What makes him stand out is his combination of length, power, and motor. He gets physical against the run, sets a strong edge, and brings relentless energy off every snap.
- Contributed by Scott Burgess
The breakout player of the year in Indiana has to be Monshun Sales.
It's hard not to pick a top 10 recruit in the country. He's got it all. The size, the speed, the hands, everything…. And he's a junior.
I've watched his progression, and he's exploded over the past year and a half or so. I remember the raw talent and him at camps looking to make a name for himself. He worked when nobody was watching
- Contributed by Sam Erman
Highlights
Iowa's breakout player of 2025 has to be Nolan Kriegel of Iowa Valley. An 8-Man quarterback -- if you could call him that -- that does everything for the Tigers.
Kriegel is tied for the most total touchdowns in the state this season, putting up 48 scores in eight games. Those gargantuan numbers include ten passing scores (with zero interceptions), 121 carries for 1,407 yards and 33 touchdowns, three receptions for 87 yards and two scores, two kickoff returns for touchdowns and a 20-yard pick-six.
A man amongst boys on the field in Marengo, Iowa, Kriegel plays with a violence, speed, strength, and vision that isn't often seen at the smallest-sized competition in the Hawkeye State. The 6'3" and 180-pound athlete plows through opposing defenders, weaves his way through traffic in the open field and bursts through holes developed by his offensive line. Known to break a bevy of ankles on any given run or to smash through arm-tackles with ease, Kriegel has the makings of a small-town legend in Iowa.
He may not be the next NFL second-round draft pick like Cooper DeJean out of OABCIG, but he'll be talked about as such through small communities in the eastern part of the state. And he's only a junior.
- Contributed by Eliot Clough
Highlights
This year's breakout player in the state of Kansas is Savion Stone of Washington HS in KCK.
Our staff has raved about his game this season, as he's led his team to a 7-0 record and established himself as arguably the top dual-threat QB in our Kansas class of '26 rankings.
Stone showed flashes of this last year, but he's really elevated his game as a passer this season. He's also been a lot more poised compared to his junior season.
Keep an eye out for Stone and Washington HS in the playoffs.
- Contributed by Santino Bernal
Highlights
Ja'Hyde has established himself as a locked-in Power 4 prospect this year, with multiple Power 4 offers and some of the bigger programs in the country starting to show interest.
Brown is a gifted route runner with sudden breaks to create separation with ease. He also has the speed to stretch the field on deep routes or break off big gains on short passes.
He's electric in the return game on both kickoffs and punts as well. A gamechanger.
- Contributed by Ryan Lippert
Highlights
The Tigers' standout, nicknamed “Bear”, has been exactly that for opposing tacklers to try to bring down this season as he's established himself as Louisiana's breakout player of the year.
Adams was one of a pair of 1,000-yard rushers for Terrebonne last season, though somewhat quietly outside of his local area. He has already far surpassed that mark this fall with three games remaining in the regular season.
Quincy has stockpiled eye-catching highlights, breaking tackles and powering through and over defenders along the way. And Coach Tyler Lewis has been praising his improved speed which has helped him average more than 10 yards a touch.
Through seven games, Adams has already racked up 1,272 yards and 18 touchdowns on 125 carries, plus another 159 yards and two scores on eight catches. He's also thrown for 267 yards and three scores on 12-for-23 passing.
- Contributed by Jerit Roser
Highlights
Ezekiel Dewever
Ezekiel Dewever
Dewever's tape shows the kind of player every coach wants, steady, physical, and built to win. He runs with patience and vision, waiting for blocks to develop before hitting the hole with authority. Once he's in space, his quick footwork and balance make it tough for defenders to square him up.
What stands out most is how complete his game is. Beyond his production as a runner, Dewever contributed in every phase for Deering this season, from carrying the load on offense to throwing key blocks that sprung big plays. He's a physical back who embraces contact and plays with an edge, setting the tone for his team every snap.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Corey Smith played sparingly as a freshman, but has been a consistent big play threat for GC this year.
He's a big body X receiver who will stretch the field. He has nice body control and strong hands, and he's a plus blocker at the WR position as well.
He just picked up his 4th P4 offer from Nebraska the other week.
- Contributed by Todd Haldis
Highlights
The electrifying running back from Barnstable High School, is making waves this season.
At 5'10" and 180 lbs, Dyer possesses a remarkable blend of agility and power. With an incredible total of 463 rushing yards over his first three games, averaging an impressive 154.3 yards per game, he's consistently showcasing his explosive capability with an astounding 11 yards per carry.
His ability to run low with a great lean allows him to navigate through defenses seamlessly, and his 4 rushing touchdowns demonstrate his knack for finding the end zone. Dyer's eye-popping 40-yard dash times of 4.63 and 4.68 at the University of Rhode Island camp further illustrate his speed.
- Contributed by Roger Silva
Highlights
Jayden had a promising freshman season last season. Elite length, frame, other traits. Had 1 G5 offer from Central Michigan at start of 2025
This year, he had an elite offseason, filled out his frame, upgraded his explosiveness, etc. and as a result of his efforts, he earned offers from Alabama, Pitt, Purdue, Vanderbilt, and Michigan State over the summer.
I've watched him in person twice this season. Legit 6'5” 220, built really well for a sophomore, elite bend, high motor, super explosive, uber competitive. Pretty dang well-rounded player already. He's been dominating on a rebuilding team with probably the toughest strength of schedule in the state.
- Contributed by Alex Pallone
Highlights
Talan Witt
Talan Witt
Talan is a DII basketball commit who has blown onto the scene thanks to the graduation of 2025 Clemson basketball signee and multi-year QB starter Chase Thompson.
In his first year under center, Witt has led Alexandria to a 7-1 record in 2025 despite a huge exodus of talent from the 2024 Class 5A runner-up roster.
Live arm, excellent scrambler who can also hurt defenses when he tucks and takes off. He's safe with the football, and accurate to all three levels of the field.
Not bad for a first-year starter in MN's second-largest classification of football.
- Contributed by Oliver West
Though he first started catching our attention as a sophomore, Thomas has broken out this season and shown he deserves the opportunity to play at the college level.
Run defense is where he truly stands out, as he loves to come up and get active with running backs. Xavier knows how to read his keys and frequently comes up to make big tackles.
Currently playing on the inside, we may see him playing outside linebacker at the next level soon enough.
- Contributed by Rion Young
Highlights
Prince is a 6'4” 210 (maybe closer to 6'5”) lineman who is lightning fast off the edge, rushing the QB. He chases down run plays in a hurry using his speed, and can also drop in coverage and make plays.
Has great closing speed and has reportedly run a 4.5 forty according to his coach. He looks like it in person and on film. Great quickness and athleticism. Still raw and learning. Has really stepped up from last season with 55 tackles and 8 sacks so fa,r with 15 QB hurries and double-digit tackles for loss, and one fumble recovery.
He just picked up his first two D1 offers last week.
- Contributed by JP Rock
Highlights
Montana
Blake Galvin
Blake Galvin
Blake Galvin is one of those players who seems to be in the right place at the right time, and it's no accident. The 2026 prospect has a great frame for both sides of the ball and has been a steady playmaker for Billings this season. On defense, he shows advanced instincts and closing speed, reading quarterbacks well and breaking on the ball with confidence.
Offensively, Galvin brings that same athleticism and toughness. He's reliable on short and intermediate routes, using crisp breaks to create separation and turn quick catches into first downs. With his combination of size, range, and football IQ, Galvin has the versatility to impact the game wherever he lines up.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Nebraska's breakout player of the year this year has been TayTay Jenkins. He's not very big for a RB (5'8” and 180), but he plays like a beast.
TayTay has elite twitch and explosiveness. He can flat-out take over a game with home run ability any time he touches the ball.
When the passing game isn't moving, Jenkins is often someone they look at to get them going on screens. He had nearly 2,000 yards last season and is on a similar pace this year.
He has a Tarik Cohen/Darren Sproles kind of skillset, and I would pound the table that he can be a difference maker at the next level.
- Contributed by Oscar Galindo
Highlights
Nevada's player of the year this year is King Kahalewai for his incredible impact on both sides of the ball.
King has 11 receiving TDs and a state-leading 10 INTS on the season so far.
He's a talented athlete with all the instincts, ball skills, and playmaking ability of a future D1 prospect.
He's a physical tackler on defense who can also create turnovers at a high rate, and an explosive downfield threat on offense that's a threat to take it the distance anytime he touches the ball.
Kahalewai will be one of the top new additions to the PRZ NV 2028 rankings in the near future.
- Contributed by Zack Reyes
Highlights
Brody Helton has been one of the most consistent producers in the state, recently surpassing 4,000 career rushing yards. Running primarily out of the shotgun, Helton's versatile style allows him to attack defenses in multiple ways. He has the patience to read blocks and cut back when lanes open, but he's just as comfortable lowering his shoulder and running through defenders between the tackles.
At 5'11" and 215 pounds, Helton combines strength, balance, and vision to wear down defenses over four quarters. He's the type of back who can carry a heavy workload and still deliver big plays. Add in his impact as a downhill linebacker, and you've got one of the most complete two-way players in the region.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
A prospect that I have been screaming his name for those all the way in the back since I first peeped his game, Qua'Yon Williams is a gifted 3-way player that can break a game open in any phase.
As a returner, he is determined and sets his blockers up before accelerating through the seams. When he does accelerate, it is clear as day that he has a different gear. This gear is truly special, as it allows him to crop dust defenders who appear to have an angle on him.
Williams also has quick feet that allow him to gain clean, unimpeded releases at the line of scrimmage. Ball skills are also a part of his game, where we see Williams adjust and contort his body to the ball when hre must.
As a corner, he is instinctual and jumps routes in flooded zones to his side. Like any natural athlete, he catches the ball with his hands and can out jump just about anyone; he also moves laterally extremely well.
A bought-in perimeter player, Williams puts forth an honest and determined effort to block for his teammates.
- Contributed by Brendan Mankarious
Highlights
Chavarria, nicknamed Peanut, has burst onto the scene this season as New Mexico's breakout player of the year.
He leads the state in passing yardage heading into Week 10. And has shown off his accurate, strong arm.
While he's strong in the pocket, he's also mobile and has shown an ability to throw on the move from different arm angles.
One of his best features is that he doesn't make mistakes. He has an impressive 33-4 TD Pass to INT ratio as he heads into week 10.
- Contributed by Scott Hood
Highlights
Moye starred this season on a Monsignor Farrell team ranked at the top of the state. The Lions QB has torn up the Catholic league this season.
Standing at 6'2, 205 lbs he's put up an impressive 1206 passing yards with a 75% completion percentage and 13 touchdowns. He has a smooth release and an excellent deep ball.
In addition to his effectiveness through the air, he's a major threat on the ground, turning 28 carries into 231 yards and 5 touchdowns.
NY has a handful of national recruits every year, and there's no doubt Moye will be one of the next as a P4 prospect.
- Contributed by Cory Lemer
Highlights
Entering the 2025 season, the senior was a two-year rotational lineman with a handful of tackles. Since he's become the starting three-technique.
Miller has become unblockable. Likely a future edge rusher, he has 31 tackles for loss and 12 sacks. One look at his film shows he isn't a one-trick pony, as he has multiple clean wins with high-level pass-rushing moves, as well as successful speed and power reps.
- Contributed by Will Helms
Highlights
Cash has been one of the most productive two-way players in North Dakota this season, leading the state in tackles while flashing the kind of versatility that makes him a legitimate next-level prospect. He's a high-IQ football player who rarely takes a false step, diagnosing plays quickly and getting from sideline to sideline with outstanding range and length.
He's a reliable tackler with excellent closing speed and fluidity, capable of tracking down ball carriers in space or slipping through blocks to make stops behind the line.
He already checks the measurable boxes for a Division I prospect, posting strong testing numbers at college camps over the summer, yet he surprisingly holds just one FCS offer for now. That's likely to change soon. With his size, speed, and all-around football instincts, Danner is the type of player who can fit multiple roles and make an immediate impact at the next level.
- Contributed by Nate Wahl
Highlights
Mason is a versatile offensive lineman who could play either tackle or guard at the next level.
In the pass game, he has good feet and mirrors well. He has a strong anchor that can stop good pass rushers in their tracks.
While Wilt is very good in pass protection, where he shines is in the run game. As a run blocker, he plays with great pad level and is violent at the point of attack. He possesses the great footwork, balance and athleticism necessary to make him a great blocker in space. He loves to finish, and pancake blocks are his specialty.
After our Stock Up Showcase in May, Mason picked up offers from Ohio State, Florida State, and, most recently, Penn State, among other Power 4 offers.
- Contributed by Jared Lunginbill
Highlights
Matthews played a little bit over the last few seasons, but this was supposed to be his breakout year and he's delivered. He's been one of the best running backs in Oklahoma and has Carl Albert in a position to win their fourth consecutive state championship. The Titans just won their 47th consecutive game on Thursday night (Oct. 23rd), and Matthews and Carl Albert have a chance to make more history. If they win the state title in December, it will be their 20th championship in school history. They will break a tie with Ada for the most football championships in Oklahoma history.
Matthews has firmly established himself as the next great running back to come through this Carl Albert program, and there have been plenty of them. In the last decade alone, the Titans have sent three running backs to programs like Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas Tech. Matthews is well on his way to becoming the next name on that list. He already has a handful of offers, and that list should grow as his impressive junior film makes the rounds. The Carl Albert junior has produced at a very high level right from the jump and the ceiling for him as an overall prospect continues to get higher and higher.
- Contributed by Michael Knight
Highlights
The 6-foot-3, 195-pound pass-catcher entered the season as a favorite of Prep Redzone, but he still hadn't taken off as a prospect.
That should change this fall.
Through the first six weeks of the season, Luebkert led Oregon 6A football in receptions (61), receiving yards (980), and touchdowns (16), but what he did next will live on in the history books.
The Beaverton senior put together one of the greatest individual performances in state history, hauling in 16 receptions for a state-record 393 yards and 7 touchdowns in a wild 79-62 loss to Sunset.
Committed to Eastern Washington, Luebkert is that rare late breakout star who deserves double-digit offers.
- Contributed by Andrew Nemec & Jordan Johnson
Highlights
Aaron is one of the more poised and confident passers I've ever evalauted throughout my time at PRZ.
A quarterback who is going to beat you with his mind and accuracy, often are traits that are glossed over in this new recruiting world that favors size and traits that help kids pass the eye-test. Elite production, a proven winner, a kid who can operate out of multiple sets and environments.
Dual-threat capaibilites are expanding, yet Strader should and will get recruited solely to play the QB position, this isn't an ATH-first player. Excels when plays breakdown for sure, yet he's one of the more decisive and trustworthy prospects the state has to offer.
Accuracy to throw kids open, accuracy to hit advanced-level throws (back-shoulder, in-stride nine balls, seam benders, oppo-hash out-routes). If you questioned this kid like I did as an underclassman, fine. After what he's done this year, and from what I've seen this past offseason, I've seen enough to rank him as the class's top QB in the next update.
- Contributed by Vic Castillo
Highlights
Joe Sanderson
Joe Sanderson
Joe Sanderson plays with an edge that jumps off the screen. Few players bring the same level of aggression and energy on both sides of the ball. As a runner, he's a downhill finisher who isn't afraid of contact, but he also shows the burst to beat defenders to the edge and turn it into a big gain. He's a consistent chunk-play threat every time he touches the ball.
Defensively, Sanderson brings that same physicality. He plays fast and fearlessly, flying downhill to deliver big hits and setting the tone for his team. His midseason tape even shows him lining up at wide receiver, where he willingly takes on bigger defenders as a crack blocker.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Brown was a lightly used sophomore at Wren. He played mostly safety and was mostly used in reserve duty in blowouts.
This year, he was moved to tailback and has burst onto the scene, rushing for 1,647 yards and 20 touchdowns in nine games.
Wren will play nearby Westside (back-to-back defending Class 4A Upper State champ) on Thursday for the Region I-4A title, and there's no doubt Brown will be an impact player in the match-up.
- Contributed by Ian Guerin
Highlights
With close to 50 total touchdowns on the season, Brody Schafer is South Dakota's breakout player of the year.
Schafer is a top tier athlete, who makes a habit of turning broken plays into big gains, either via his legs or his arm talent.
He has the ability to make throws to all three levels, with excellent ball placement and precision. He pairs his arm talent with excellent football IQ and an obvious chemistry with all of his receivers.
With an 8-1 record, Brody and the Patriots will be a team to watch for the remainder of the season.
- Contributed by Nate Wahl
Highlights
Andre is a pass-first dual threat that has produced monster offensive games this year.
He generated 9 TD's himself vs. FRA.
He's a calm, cool customer who feels and eludes pressure well. An accurate passer that has improved arm strength, Adams has shown his Power Four potential this season.
- Contributed by Chris Smith
Highlights
Ethan, who is committed to the USC Trojans, has been playing lights out all year and proving to be one of the most consistent playmakers on the field.
He runs clean, detailed routes that keep defenders guessing, and his burst off the line allows him to create separation with ease.
Ethan tracks the ball naturally in the air, showing great body control and strong hands to finish through contact. He's dangerous after the catch too, turning short passes into big gains with his quickness and vision in space.
Whether it's making a tough grab or finding open grass, Ethan continues to show why he's been so dominant this season.
- Contributed by Alin Edouard
Highlights
Comparing Jaxon from offseason spring showcases to now is night and day.
He stands tall in the pocket, he's a quick processor, and has a compact delivery.
Jaxon leads his receivers open and stresses the defense by taking deep shots and dotting the field.
He does a good job layering his throws, getting to his second read, and showcasing pocket navigation. Hunt is also calm under pressure. The moment isn't too big for him.
- Contributed by Andy Pham
Highlights
Don't let Maddox McFarland's size or stat line fool you, the sophomore quarterback has been a difference-maker for St. Johnsbury Academy this season. Leading his team to a 7-1 record, McFarland has flashed advanced playmaking ability and poise well beyond his years.
He's dangerous on the move, capable of pulling up on a sprintout and delivering a strike downfield or tucking it to make defenders miss.
McFarland sees the field well, stays patient on intermediate routes, and has a knack for extending plays when things break down.
With his competitiveness, mobility, and natural feel for the game, McFarland already shows winning traits, and there's plenty of room for his game to keep growing.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff
Highlights
Lewis took over the starting duties in the middle of last year, and has developed into one of the better quarterbacks in the region since then.
This season, Scott has flashed high IQ and often flawless execution. His completion percentage has been strong all season and his QBR has been off the charts. He's proven this season that he's a can't miss prospect for coaches at the next level
- Contributed by Carl Frederick
Highlights
The Puyallup Vikings' young squad has quickly emerged as perhaps the best team in the Pacific Northwest. Loaded with playmakers on the perimeter and athletic bulk in the inside, Puyallup's entire team deserves attention, as it has outscored opponents 285-16 in its last five contests. It's a group loaded with young prospects that is sure to have college coaches roaming the hallways in the next few years.
But Pulalasi has been the heart and soul of the Vikings' defense, which has allowed 10 points or fewer in 5 of their 8 wins and just 71 points total this season (8.8 per game). The breakout junior has accumulated 60 tackles, 10 tackles-for-loss and 2 sacks so far.
- Contributed by Jordan Johnson & Andrew Nemec
Highlights
Twigg debuted as our #1 ranked prospect in the 2028 class this summer after showing flashes of high-level potential as a freshman last season. Twigg built momentum over the summer with his first D1 offer from Marshall and has carried that into a breakout sophomore campaign for the 7-1 Mohigans, adding a second D1 offer from Kent State this season.
The 6'2 200 sophomore has all of the physical tools and intangibles to play at the P4 level, which he's proven this year being on the short list of candidates for the Kennedy Award, the state's Player of the Year honor.
In 8 games, Twigg has thrown for 1,224 yards and 13 touchdowns, while showing his athletic versatility with 500 rushing yards and 7 more scores and 2 interceptions on defense. Twigg is a “gamer” in every sense of the term and has innate playmaking ability in any role that he's in on the football field.
- Contributed by Matt Layton
Highlights
It was clear that the talent was there as this past offseason went along. Kingston was putting out impressive weight room lifts after spending his sophomore season serving as the backup to 2024 PRZ WI Player of the Year RB Christian Collins.
This past summer the dynamic and explosive 2027 was able to start to showcase his elite traits. A powerful and explosive 6'1” 185 lbs frame with 4.5 40 speed. His camp circuit leading into his junior season garnered him offers from FCS powerhouse North Dakota State as well as North Dakota and Eastern Michigan of the FBS level.
Then the season arrived and Kingston got to don the pads and take over RB1 for Notre Dame. The kid is an elite playmaker with the ball in his hands. He plays with an outstanding combination of speed, short area agility and burst, power through contact, and balance. He has found success inside and outside the tackle box, and even with all the natural gifts in the world the junior has still demonstrated the patience needed to allow blocks to develop. Literally any time the 2027 touches the ball there is a high chance of him taking it to the house.
Allen has Notre Dame ready for a playoff run with a perfect 9-0 record, and Kingston has personally amassed 1,695 rushing yards and 30 TDs on 184 carries. The star 2027 has also earned his 2nd FBS offer overall and first Power 4 offer from Northwestern to go along with the other 3 D1 offers. Safe to say the 2027 RB has taken his opportunity and ran with it and proven himself to be one of the best overall players in the state.
- Contributed by Mark Johnson
Highlights
Wyoming
Keegan Rager
Keegan Rager
Keegan has been the breakout player of the year in Wyoming this year, powering Sheridan on both sides of the ball as they head into state playoffs this fall.
The 6'0" 190-pound running back has led the Broncs in nearly all rushing categories, and has been a major catalyst for their undefeated season thus far.
A contributor on the defensive side of the ball as well at linebacker, Rager has had a huge impact in a season that's seen the Sheridan take the #1 seed in class 4a.
- Contributed by Prep Redzone Staff