Just like that, we're six games through the season and approaching that critical time where teams are making their push for the playoffs.
So far, there's been some exciting football played in the ILL state. I've also gotten a chance to witness a bunch of prospects outplaying the expectations I had set for them when the season began, and as a result, their stocks have risen at an exponential rate over the past six weeks.
So without further ado, let's get to know ten stock risers you may not know, but should.
Jovan Clark | ATH | Morgan Park ’25
Clark may very well be one of the more impressive two-way players in Illinois’ c/o 2025. His physique doesn’t resemble that of a freshman, nor does his play on the field. He’s a disruptive, playmaking linebacker who flashes some good pass-rushing skills and is relentless in the pursuit of his target. On offense he’s extremely talented at toting the rock and can be a load to bring down once he gets going. It’s going to be a treat to watch him perform over the next few years.
Brandon McCoy | QB | St Laurence ’22
The dual-threat out of St Laurence has accounted for 1,260 all-purpose yards and eight touchdowns through six weeks of play. He keeps the defense on their heels with his ability to run the ball and has found frequent success in running the RPO. St. Laurence is currently 3-3 and are looking to push for the playoffs, which will require McCoy to elevate his game as the season nears its end.
Kamari Harmon | DB | Brooks ’22
Harmon excels in man coverage and is the type of cornerback that doesn’t mind being on an island with the opposing team’s best receiver. He has fluid hips and quick feet, the ability to change directions quickly, and the speed and athleticism to pester his opponents in coverage.
Brian Stanton | RB | Plainfield South ’22
This kid is a natural runner of the football who can flat-out fly! He’s an elusive runner who excels in making defenders miss in space or tight areas and rarely goes down from the initial contact. Light on his feet with above-average vision and doesn’t shy away from initiating the contact as a runner. He can be a major threat in the catch-and-run game with his ability to wiggle around defenders in space.
[player_tooltip player_id="161322" first="KJ" last="Parker"] | ATH | IC Prep ’24
He’s a tough kid who plays an aggressive brand of football; he doesn’t shy away from contact, and from what I’ve seen, he’s the initiator of contact more times than none. Has the speed and range to cover the field from sideline to sideline and is a sure tackler at his position. He also adds value in the special teams phase as an effective return man who can be slippery in space.
[player_tooltip player_id="165456" first="Eddie" last="Kasper"] | WR | Wheaton Academy ’22
Kasper is easily one of the best route-runners in the state. I’ve seen him in person during the offseason put defenders on skates and be virtually unguardable, and to no surprise, his crisp and pristine route-running translates with the pads on. He’s able to win his matchups at any level on the field with his uncanny ability to create separation on his routes. Can get it done out wide but is a nightmare when for DBs when lined up in the slot.
Quadrell Hill | RB | Clark ’22
Hill has gained 740 rushing yards through six games and has solidified himself as one of the more productive Public League running backs this season. He’s a no-nonsense, blue-collar type of runner who fights for extra yardage and rarely goes down in the backfield. Flashes quick feet and a lethal jump cut that freezes defenders on his way to paydirt.
William Anderson | DL | Leo ’22
William Anderson is an highly talented prospect who’s flying way under the radar. I got a chance to watch him in person a few weeks ago and he displayed just how dominant of a pass rusher he is. He’s overpowering at the point of attack and flashes an impressive rip move which enables him to evade opposing blockers consistently. It’s also worth noting that he’s a pretty good athlete with some good mobility that allows him to win his matchups with finesse.
[player_tooltip player_id="155500" first="J.T." last="Harris"] | DB | Mt. Carmel ’22
You won’t find a more fundamentally sound cornerback in the state than [player_tooltip player_id="155500" first="J.T." last="Harris"]. He’s a playmaker at the position who flashes true shutdown corner traits. He has the speed to run with any receiver and his closing speed is off the charts. Possesses great instincts and ball skills, which makes opposing quarterbacks second-guess themselves when throwing to his side. Although his size doesn’t suggest it, he plays an extremely physical brand of football and more than capable of holding his own in run support.
[player_tooltip player_id="168907" first="Michael" last="Champagne"] | QB | Glenbard South ’24
Glenbard South is off to a 5-1 start with [player_tooltip player_id="168907" first="Michael" last="Champagne"] under center. The sophomore gunslinger has all the tools to be a high-level quarterback over the next few years. Makes quick decisions and doesn’t hold onto the ball; if need be, he’s athletic enough to tuck and run and make a defense pay with his legs. Whether he’s in the pocket or on the run, he throws a catchable ball and is deadly accurate in his delivery.
