Duke is a vet at this point, and he did exactly what vets do-elevate their game when their team needs it. Once again, Duke had no problem doing exactly that. Field managers and referees were constantly asking “who is that?” after seeing him make some high level throws.

One of the things I noted is how well he does putting the ball where it needs to be. Whether it’s putting the ball right on the receiver up the seam, or getting the ball to the back shoulder in the end zone, to putting it low or high depending on where the defender is related to the receiver, Duke was just on it. His arm strength and mechanics looked as clean as ever, and he helped spark a deep run for his team on Sunday. Banta is QB1 for a reason, and days like yesterday just solidify that sentiment.

Duke did exactly what I expected. Duke passes the eye test physically, looking significantly bigger and more powerful than any other QB in attendance. His arm strength was on display right from the jump, pushing the ball downfield and taking shots to the end zone from the beginning. His processing and accuracy are far beyond any other QB in the state. Duke did everything you would expect from the #1 quarterback in the class, plus some.

Duke earns a nice rankings boost and the #1 QB ranking. Prior to the 2025 season, Duke was still a largely unproven QB with a lot of question marks surrounding his game. After an undefeated State Championship season, most of those questions have been answered.

Duke is not the most high-volume passer, but he’s been incredibly efficient with his opportunities. Consistently great decision-making, including an 81% passing, 3-TD, 0-INT mark against Cass Tech in the state championship. Duke consistently gets the ball out quickly and accurately, very rarely committing turnovers even against the most talented defenses. Additionally, Duke is far better in areas like pocket presence. Against Brother Rice, I watched him get pressured way more than usual, and Duke did a great job feeling that pressure, evading the pocket, and keeping his eyes downfield.

Duke has stepped up to the plate and delivered in his Junior season. He’s steady as they come, confident, coachable, and has the right intangibles. Looking like a G5 floor QB, which is a massive compliment.

I’ve gotten two great looks at Duke this season. Against St. Mary’s, I was neither impressed nor disappointed. I thought Duke did a good job managing the game, and he had some bright spots plus some mistakes.

Against Brother Rice, Duke was in an excellent rhythm all game. The deep ball was clicking, just like it did against OLSM. Plus, Duke had a few great off-platform throws, in addition to excellent pocket presence. The pocket presence is especially impressive, as that’s an area most high school QBs struggle mightily.

Duke seems smart, poised, and up to the tall task of leading the DCC offense. I am highly considering Duke as QB1 in this class, and he’s absolutely the #1 Catholic League QB in the class of 2027.

Duke impressed me today. He played loose, in control, and got into a rhythm early.

First thing I’d like to mention is pocket presence. On a couple of occasions, I watched Duke feel pressure and navigate it perfectly while also keeping his eyes downfield. Plus, Duke had a couple of impressive deep balls and several on-time throws 10+ yards downfield.

Athletes play best when they are confident and loose. Duke seemed up to the moment and played an excellent game. Absolutely backed up his ranking in this one.

I like what Duke showcased in the first half.

For one, he looks very comfortable in the pocket. Very few jitters, not run-happy, always looking downfield. Duke had a couple of impressive deep balls, including one perfectly-placed 40-yard throw right at the pylon. Plus, a few other quick reads that were on the money. Accuracy was good, with a few perfect balls, but there were also a few inaccurate passes. I usually don’t comment on mechancis, but it did look like Duke struggled to bring his full upper-body into his throws- looked like his mechanics hurt his velocity a bit.

On the sidelines, Duke always looked locked in and confident. Plus, the strength of schedule will only serve to accelerate Duke’s development. Great upside, and I’m looking forward to getting another look at Duke in a few weeks.

I’m incredibly excited to evaluate Duke. I mean, the arm talent is obvious. For years, Duke has looked polished and pretty dang accurate in low-pressure scenarios.

It’s going to be fun watching Duke play on a big stage. Of course, I’m looking for smart, quick reads. Against OLSM, you can’t typically afford to be late or slightly inaccurate on throws. Additionally, I’m looking forward to watching Duke potentially navigate a big late-game drive.

I see the talent. I’ve seen some tape, but the coming in-person evaluation will tell me so much more.

I am incredibly excited to get an in-person evaluation. I will be at Duke’s game against St. Mary’s. Until then, let’s take a look at his highlights against Toledo Central Catholic.

The first two highlights are beautiful deep balls. First one, his receiver gets wide-open, and it’s a pretty easy throw. His second highlight is even better. His receiver wins his battle, and Duke drops it just past the safety- a place where only his receiver could grab it. Third, another excellent example of ball placement, throwing the post right above the linebackers. Duke is throwing on time and accurately. Can’t wait to see Duke compete in-person. He could be on his way toward a rankings boost.

It’s Duke Banta Duke Banta 6'3" | 180 lbs | QB Catholic Central | 2027 State MI time at Detroit Catholic Central.

I have Duke ranked as the #1 class of 2027 QB in the Catholic League. Duke has a ton of great flashes. Mechanics are great, which leads to consistent throw power and much more consistent accuracy. Reports and camp performances indicate further improvements. It’s clear that Duke is ready for a breakout season.

The biggest question mark with Duke (and most QBs) is IQ. Duke is going to face what is arguably the most difficult schedule in Michigan. Take care of the football, and he could be in for Power 4 offers.