After their Week 1 matchup with Kaufman and Creston, Clarinda likely would like to forget about seeing the Panther sophomore. He rushed 38 times for 215 yards and a touchdown, caught five balls for 79 yards and a score, averaged 34.2 yards on six kick returns with a TD, and completed his only pass for 27 yards. There’s no truth to the rumor he helped park cars before the game, sold concessions at halftime and was part of the stadium cleanup following the final horn. Kaufman showed a lot of patience and power in picking up 22 yards on a run. He flashes home-run ability on this 61-yard touchdown catch. Kaufman has the potential to develop as a running back, receiver or defensive back with his speed and skill set.

Gabe Kaufman Gabe Kaufman 6'0" | 155 lbs | RB/WR Creston | 2029 IA was able to generate an impressive amount of production on the ground as a freshman and is slated for even bigger results in 2026. Kaufman generated 746 total yards (7.6 YPC) and 5 rushing TDs during his freshman season. Playing as the No. 2 RB in Creston’s full-house offense, Kaufman excelled running outside the perimeter with his sharp acceleration off the handoff along with his quick agility and change of direction. Kaufman also played well as a regular Tailback, attacking the open gaps up the middle and continuously pushing for forward progress. Kaufman is slated to move up to the No. 1 RB position entering his sophomore season, where paired with his dual-threat QB Tanner Ray Tanner Ray 6'0" | 150 lbs | QB Creston | 2027 IA should form a dangerous 1-2 punch in the run-game.

Kaufman paced the state’s freshmen with 593 yards (7.0 YPC) and five touchdowns on the ground in 2025. He also caught seven balls for 60 yards, and averaged 18.6 yards on five kick returns. Kaufman’s 2025 highlight video showcases how he earned all-district honorable mention as a ninth-grader. On the clips, Creston runs counter plays that allow him to find the holes and utilize his burst in getting through them. Kaufman does well in setting up those blocks and changes directions quickly when needed. He cuts back if he sees that’s the best route and breaks tackles at a high rate, especially for his age. Kaufman’s success comes from the type of athleticism that could be employed at other positions, giving him the versatility that college coaches covet.