Metro East Sophomore Quarterbacks to Know

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1701753' first='Hunter' last='Hochbaum'], Mater Dei (Breese), QB</strong> emerged as one of the most productive sophomore quarterbacks in the state during the 2024 season, throwing for 2,165 yards and accounting for 23 touchdowns. Hochbaum plays with confidence and rhythm, showing a strong understanding of timing concepts and the ability to operate within the structure of the offense. His consistency week to week stood out, and he already looks comfortable handling the responsibilities of a varsity quarterback.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Owen Kehrer, Breese Central, QB</strong> followed closely with 2,147 passing yards and 27 touchdowns, anchoring a productive offense just across town. Kehrer brings a steady presence to the position and does a good job protecting the football while still pushing the ball downfield. His decision-making and accuracy allowed Breese Central to stay efficient offensively, making the Breese quarterback comparison a natural storyline within the region.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1687164' first='Cole' last='Stiegman'], Nashville, QB</strong> put together one of the most efficient sophomore seasons in the group, finishing with 938 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and just one interception. While his overall volume was lower, Stiegman consistently maximized opportunities and showed strong situational awareness. His ability to take care of the football and deliver in key moments stood out throughout the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jack Hilgendorf, Mascoutah, QB</strong> gained valuable varsity experience during his sophomore campaign, throwing for 967 yards while continuing to develop within the offense. Hilgendorf operates well in rhythm and shows composure for his age. As he continues to grow physically and refine his mechanics, his upside within the program becomes increasingly clear.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>John Holloway, Triad (Troy), QB</strong> finished the season with 695 passing yards and flashed tools that suggest long-term upside at the position. While the production is still developing, Holloway shows the ability to make throws at all levels and continues to grow into the quarterback role. With increased reps and offensive continuity, his trajectory points upward.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id='427474' first='Jadon' last='Wilson'], East St. Louis, QB</strong> rounds out the group, and while the raw passing numbers do not fully reflect his impact, context is important. Wilson operates in a system that does not rely heavily on passing volume, but his athletic profile and ability to create outside of structure make him an intriguing long-term quarterback prospect. His continued development will be worth monitoring as he gains experience.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->