Written by: Drew Johnson (@RealNews102)
The opening week of the Florida high school football season didn’t disappoint. From breakout underclassmen to proven veterans, quarterbacks across the state put up statement performances. Here’s a look at some of the top standouts.
Blake McCullough | QB | 2028 | Bishop Moore
The Hornets rolled in Week 1 with a 68–35 win over Oviedo, and McCullough was sharp from start to finish. The 2028 prospect completed 23 of 29 passes (79%) for 322 yards and 5 touchdowns, looking efficient and in total command of the offense.
Brady Quinn | QB | 2028 | Lely
One of the premier 2028 quarterbacks in the country, Quinn showed exactly why in Week 1. He went 13-for-14, throwing for 325 yards and 5 touchdowns, putting together a near-flawless performance that turned heads statewide.
Patrick Harding | QB | 2026 | Zephyrhills
Harding only needed a half of football to showcase his ability. In a 46–0 blowout win, he piled up 250 passing yards, 3 passing touchdowns, and added a rushing score. A strong opening statement for one of Pasco County’s top quarterbacks.
Chase Burrill | QB | 2027 | St. Petersburg Catholic
Burrill had one of the most efficient nights anywhere in the state. He accounted for 6 touchdowns while posting a 157.5 passer rating in a 50–0 victory. His ability to finish drives and limit mistakes stood out in SPC’s opener.
Noah Walstad | QB | 2027 | East Ridge
At 6-5, Walstad’s size already makes him intriguing, and his Week 1 performance backs it up. He went 14-for-24 for 381 yards and 6 touchdowns in a 69–22 win. After a strong offseason, he looks poised for a big year.
AJ Chung | QB | 2028 | West Orange
In a 28–18 win over Evans, Chung stepped up when it mattered most. He tossed 3 touchdowns and kept the offense steady, while defense and special teams set the tone. A promising 1-0 start for the young signal caller.
Liam Fernandez | QB | 2026 | Southeast
Fernandez continues to fly under the radar, but his Week 1 numbers shouldn’t be overlooked. He scored 4 total touchdowns (3 passing, 1 rushing) in a 42–0 win, flashing dual-threat ability and upside moving forward.
Jaylen White | QB | 2026 | Clearwater
A Charlotte commit, White did it all on the road against Bartow. He made plays through the air and on the ground, showing command and poise in a tough environment. Earned player of the game honors in the win.
Davin Davidson | QB | 2027 | Cardinal Mooney
Although the game was cut short by weather, Davidson made the most of his limited time. He finished 8-for-9 for 147 yards and a touchdown, adding another score on the ground before the game was called.
Royce Jenkins | QB | 2027 | Hagerty
Jenkins powered Hagerty to a 40–21 win over Lake Howell, going 14-for-17 for 241 yards and 3 touchdowns through the air, while also rushing 12 times for 87 yards and 2 more scores. A true dual-threat showing.
Jayden McCutchen | QB | 2027 | Fort Meade
McCutchen delivered both with his arm and legs, throwing multiple touchdowns and running for another. He has quickly established himself as one of Polk County’s top five quarterback prospects to track this fall.
Noah Grubbs | QB | 2026 | Lake Mary
The Notre Dame commit led one of the best wins of the weekend, engineering a 30–29 comeback over Miami Norland. Grubbs scored four total touchdowns and showed the poise of a high-level college prospect.
Will Griffin | QB | 2026 | Jesuit
Griffin continues to etch his name in Florida high school history. He threw for 275 yards and 3 touchdowns (18-for-28) while surpassing 10,000 career passing yards in Jesuit’s opener—a milestone only a select few reach.
