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As the California high school football 2024 season approaches, all eyes are on the CIF Central Coast Section (CCS) and its crop of talented quarterbacks. This year’s lineup promises an exciting blend of established stars and emerging talents, each vying for top honors and the attention of college recruiters. Let’s dive into the stories of these young athletes who are set to light up the gridiron this fall.
The Veteran Gunslinger
Leading the pack is Jayden Martinez from Palo Alto High School. The senior quarterback is coming off a stellar junior year where he threw for over 3,000 yards and 35 touchdowns[1]. Martinez’s arm strength and decision-making skills have already caught the attention of several Pac-12 schools.
Jayden’s growth over the last year has been phenomenal,
says Palo Alto head coach Marcus Williams.
His understanding of the game and ability to read defenses is at a college level already.
Martinez’s accuracy on deep throws and his mobility in the pocket make him a dual-threat that defenses struggle to contain. With a strong supporting cast around him, many experts predict Martinez could break CCS Football passing records this season.
The Dual-Threat Dynamo
Not to be outdone, Carlos Rodriguez of San Jose’s Bellarmine College Preparatory is making waves as one of the section’s most exciting dual-threat quarterbacks. Rodriguez, a junior, accounted for over 2,500 total yards last season – 1,800 through the air and 700 on the ground[2].
His electric play-making ability has drawn comparisons to NFL stars like Kyler Murray. Rodriguez’s coach, Kevin Anderson, believes the sky’s the limit for his young QB:
Carlos has that rare ability to turn a broken play into a big gain. His improvisation skills are off the charts, and he’s only getting better as a passer.
With several D1 programs already showing interest, Rodriguez’s performance this season could solidify his status as a top recruit for the class of 2025.
The Rising Sophomore Sensation
Perhaps the most intriguing prospect in the CCS Football is Ethan Chen of Los Gatos High School. As a freshman last year, Chen showed flashes of brilliance in limited playing time, including a 300-yard, 4-touchdown performance in the team’s playoff game[3].
Now slated to be the full-time starter, expectations are sky-high for Chen. Los Gatos offensive coordinator Sarah Thompson is excited about Chen’s potential:
Ethan’s arm talent is special. He can make throws that you typically don’t see from players his age. But what really sets him apart is his poise and football IQ.
While it’s early in his high school career, some scouts are already whispering that Chen could be the next big quarterback prospect to come out of the Bay Area.
The Comeback Kid – CIF Central Coast Section
Tyler Washington of Menlo-Atherton High School is looking to make a statement after missing most of his junior season with a shoulder injury. Prior to the setback, Washington was considered one of the top QB prospects in Northern California.
Now fully recovered, Washington has been impressing in summer camps and 7-on-7 tournaments. His coach, John Philipopoulos, believes the adversity has only made Washington stronger:
Tyler’s work ethic through his rehab was incredible. He’s come back with a renewed focus and determination. I think a lot of people are going to be surprised by how good he is this year.
Washington’s strong arm and quick release, combined with his experience in Menlo-Atherton’s pro-style offense, make him an intriguing prospect for college programs looking for a polished passer.
The Dark Horse
Flying somewhat under the radar is Miguel Sanchez from Gilroy High School. While Gilroy isn’t traditionally a football powerhouse, Sanchez’s performances last season turned heads across the section. He threw for over 2,500 yards and 28 touchdowns, leading Gilroy to its first winning season in five years[4].
Sanchez’s accuracy on short and intermediate routes is exceptional, and he’s worked hard in the offseason to improve his deep ball. Gilroy head coach Alex Trujillo believes Sanchez is ready to take the next step:
Miguel is the hardest working kid I’ve ever coached. He’s in the film room constantly, always looking to improve. I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up being the best quarterback in the section this year.
As the 2024 season approaches, these talented quarterbacks are set to bring excitement and high-level play to the CIF Central Coast Section. From established stars to rising phenoms, the quarterback position in the CCS Football has never been stronger. Football fans in the Bay Area and beyond will undoubtedly be treated to some spectacular performances this fall.
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