Ben Raines is coming off a monster season at South River, one that vaulted both him and the program into the statewide spotlight. The junior quarterback led South River to its longest playoff run in 30 years while torching defenses for more than 3,000 passing yards and an eye-popping 48 touchdowns.

Raines’ poise, arm talent, and ability to extend plays have kept him firmly at the top of the Maryland 2026 quarterback rankings, a spot he has held for much of the cycle. His breakout campaign recently translated to his first collegiate opportunity, earning an offer from RPI (Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute).

As the offseason evaluation period continues, expect Raines’ recruitment to gain additional momentum. With proven production, and leadership, he remains one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the region heading into the next phase of the recruiting cycle.

Raines put together a historic campaign that rewrote the South River record books. He finished the year with a staggering 3,288 passing yards and 48 total touchdowns, commanding the offense with poise, and an aggressive downfield mindset that consistently stressed opposing defenses.

What separates Raines on film is his ability to extend plays and punish coverage breakdowns. He’s dangerous outside the pocket, keeping his eyes downfield and delivering accurate throws with touch and timing, allowing his receivers to win in space and generate yards after the catch.

His journey makes the season even more impressive. After stops at two of the state’s top programs, Raines returned home to South River and immediately elevated the program to new heights. Along the way, he broke three major records and tied another, setting school marks for most touchdowns in a season, most passing yards in a season, and leading South River to its longest playoff run in 30 years. He also tied the county record for touchdowns in a single game with seven, accomplishing that feat twice in the same season.

Ben was lights out for South River as that put together a 17pt 4th quarter comeback win over St. Charles Friday night. For the game Ben threw for over 340 yards and had 3 passing TDs. He made some excellent throws during the game. Showing off his strong arm and accurate placement. Often times putting the ball between defenders where only his WR could make a play on it. On the season Raines also leads the state in both passing yard and passing TDs with 3,015yds and 43 scores. Those numbers have lead South River to an undefeated season so far.

Up next for SR is a tough Oakdale team in the regional finals. If Benjamin keeps up his stellar game play with his arm, paired with his leadership and playmaking ability, it will be hard to see any team taking him down.

Ben Raines: Experienced Signal-Caller with High Ceiling

Ben Raines has been a familiar name in the Prep Redzone rankings, and for good reason. A well-traveled and battle-tested quarterback, Raines has gained valuable experience across multiple top-tier programs throughout his high school career. He began in the WCAC at powerhouse DeMatha, where he led the JV squad to a championship, flashing early signs of his upside.

Over the past two seasons, Raines suited up for Mount Saint Joseph, continuing his development and gaining reps against some of the toughest competition in the Mid-Atlantic. Now, in his return home to South River High School, Raines is poised to lead with confidence and take full command of the offense.

At 6’2″ with a strong arm, Raines delivers with both power and precision. He consistently shows the ability to drop the ball in the bucket with touch on vertical routes and maintains composure in the pocket. A seasoned player since his 8th-grade days, he’s been performing at a high level against some of the best talent across Maryland and the East Coast.

With his blend of size, experience, and arm talent, Raines is set for a breakout senior season that could bring new eyes to his recruitment.

Raines commands attention with his prototype quarterback build, standing at 6’3″ and 215+ pounds. His arm talent is unquestionable, and he’s been showcasing his passing prowess since his FBU Maryland All-Star days, where I first evaluated him in 2022. This season, Ben trailed Gatorade Player of the Year Malik Washington Malik Washington 6'4" | 190 lbs | QB Archbishop Spalding | 2025 State MD by just 165 yards, passing for 1,805 yards and 13 touchdowns. On film, Raines consistently demonstrates his accuracy and athleticism. Whether in the pocket or on the run, he has the ability to fit the ball into tight windows, delivering strikes to his receivers in tight coverage. As for recruiting, Raines has drawn significant interest from the University of Ohio. Given his track record of excellence, any Division I program would be remiss not to keep him on their recruiting board heading into next season.

It’s tough to take away anything positive from Mount St. Joseph’s performance against Bishop McDevitt. One sure bright spot was quarterback Benjamin Raines Benjamin Raines 6'3" | 220 lbs | QB South River | 2026 State MD . 6’3, weighs in anywhere from 210-215 pounds, ranked just outside of the top ten among his 2026 passing peers. Raines carries quite a bit of flare to his game. Although sacked 7+ times, Raines did a good job evading pressure in a myriad of ways. Moving his launch point to either side of the tackles, stepping up into the pocket, delivering the ball off-platform or via different arm slots, Raines did well with what was presented to him. Did he miss a few throws, yes. Did he hold onto the football a bit too long at times, yes. These are nitpicks, there were far and away more good decisions and throws than there were bad. Up against an out-of-state program, hours away from home, I think Raines had a good showing. Tight window passes were completed, no matter the score or situation Raines didn’t falter in terms of confidence. Littered throughout his Week 1 tape are throws that wowed MD scout Todd Haldis, as well as myself. This week should serve as a building block for Raines to grow from moving forward, a lot of good to acknowledge before facing his next opponent.

Ben had a strong first varsity start against a loaded Bishop McDevitt (PA) team. He had a total of 329 passing yards and added 43 yards rushing, while showing great leadership and poise.

Throughout the game, Ben made a lot of high level throws. Showed good pocket mobility and awareness, extending the play with his legs or stepping up in the pocket to deliver a strike. I saw him show off his off strength with nice zip and velocity on his throws, delivering the ball into some tight windows and pushing the ball vertically as well as to the sidelines. Ben showed the ability to lead this MSJ team this year and put up good numbers all season long. I am always one to say “I want to see you do it in game” and not just in 7v7 or workouts but against guys in your face when it matters. Ben passed this test and I expect him to move up in our next 2026 rankings.