8A QB Preview
As 2020 approaches, we wanted to take a look at three of the top returning QBs in 8A. Each have their own unique style of play, and can attack defenses in a multitude of ways. Ryan Saxe Ryan Saxe 6'0"…
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Continue ReadingAs 2020 approaches, we wanted to take a look at three of the top returning QBs in 8A. Each have their own unique style of play, and can attack defenses in a multitude of ways.
Ryan Saxe Ryan Saxe 6'0" | 180 lbs | QB Fremd | 2021 IL (Fremd HS)- Adequate height and weight, slender, trim, proportioned with some definition. Smooth footwork off snap in order to square base. A rhythmic thrower with a tight, short motion and good release. Solid pocket presence, can move to elude pressure, but also shows the willingness to take a hit to make a throw. Solid play strength, with hip and core torque. He is going to be at his best working the short to intermediate areas of the field. Possesses enough zip to fit the ball into tight windows in those areas. Good accuracy, allows WR to pick up YAC with good ball placement. Good mobility and eye discipline when working outside the pocket. Good speed and agility, coupled with a physical running style allows him to move the chains when needed. As a passer, keeps eyes downfield and can generate enough torque to throw off platform. To reach his full potential he will need to develop more patience in the pocket, he likes to hit his back foot and get the ball out. When initial read isn’t there he looks for escape lanes instead of continuing to let the play develop. Overall, a good player that still needs some work but has the tools to be successful.
JT Thomas (Loyola HS)- Adequate height with good weight, thick, proportioned with solid definition. Very good footwork and eyes off the snap. He gets through reads quickly and displays the ability to get to his second and third options. Good pocket presence, uses short, quick lateral and vertical movements to elude, while keeping eyes downfield. Very good motion and release, short, quick, and the ball comes out clean. Good play strength, generates majority of his power from his core, and can push the ball down the field, while also being able to complete throws from the far hash. Very good spot thrower, leads WRs and hits them in stride. Anticipates the break very well, and gets the ball out on time. Good accuracy and touch, in order to not only protect WRs, but also throw a very catchable ball. Solid mobility, enough to keep defenses honest with zone read concepts, but isn’t going to be real effective with his legs unless he is just moving to throw. Overall, a very good player that is a bit undersized height-wise, but has all the tools and traits.
Jeffery Lomax (Elgin HS)-Good height and solid weight, slender, trim, proportion with little definition. Solid play strength, some core torque power and weight transition, but likes to throw with all arm. Shows good mobility, as he likes to get out of the pocket and make off platform throws. He is a very good athlete, and shows good throws, and others that are just thrown up, relying on WR to go get it. He has unique size and athletic ability, but it will need to be focused and developed. His footwork in the pocket gives him trouble, and minimizes his power. His pocket presence can get shaken when first read isn’t there, and he wants to bail. He would fit best in a zone heavy, spread offense, but if he can develop the finer intricacies of the position, a team will have a unique talent.