Feature Photo: Via The Star-Telegram
These ballers stepped up and showed out under the bright Thursday night lights, delivering statement performances when their teams needed them the most. From clutch playoff-clinching wins to breakout showings that turned heads across the state, these athletes proved why Texas high school football continues to set the standard.
Julien Simpson | ATH | Class of 2026 | North Mesquite HS | @jujusimpson4
Few players impact a game on both sides of the ball like Julien Simpson. The dynamic athlete flashed his all-around skill set once again, contributing as both an offensive weapon and defensive playmaker.
Simpson racked up 118 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on offense, displaying great vision, patience, and acceleration through running lanes. Defensively, he was just as impressive — laying big hits, making open-field tackles, and recording multiple pass breakups.
Simpson’s athleticism jumps off the tape, but what separates him is his football IQ and competitiveness. He’s a tone-setter who thrives in pressure moments, and he’s capable of flipping a game’s momentum on a single play.
College coaches love players who can contribute in multiple phases, and Simpson checks every box, physical, disciplined, and versatile.
Braeden Imhoff | QB | Class of 2026 | Prosper HS | @ImhoffBraeden | Lamar Commit
Senior quarterback Braeden Imhoff continues to show why he’s one of the most efficient passers in the state. In Prosper’s playoff-clinching win over Princeton, Imhoff delivered a near-perfect performance.
He completed 9-of-9 passes for 222 yards and 4 touchdowns, operating with complete command of the offense. His timing, accuracy, and decision-making have been steady all season long, and he’s peaking at just the right time.
Imhoff doesn’t force plays, he takes what the defense gives him, delivers the ball on time, and leads with confidence. His leadership and composure under pressure have been key to Prosper’s success.
College scouts value consistency and poise, and Imhoff continues to show both in abundance.
Jayden Bibbs | QB | Class of 2026 | Arlington Bowie HS | @JaydenBibbs26
When the game is on the line, Jayden Bibbs delivers. The senior quarterback turned in one of his best performances of the season in a crucial matchup against Lamar, helping his team clinch a playoff spot.
Bibbs completed 22-of-27 passes for 211 yards and 3 touchdowns, while adding 71 rushing yards with his legs. His dual-threat ability kept the defense off balance all night, and his knack for making big plays in crunch time was on full display.
At 6’2”, with a strong frame and live arm, Bibbs can push the ball vertically while also extending plays with his mobility. He’s calm in the pocket, decisive when he scrambles, and efficient in his reads.
Bibbs has all the traits college coaches look for, size, leadership, accuracy, and playmaking ability. He’s a quarterback who rises to the moment and finds ways to win.
Tayrone Thomas | RB | Class of 2026 | Arlington Lamar HS |@TayroneT2027
Junior running back Tayrone Thomas was the engine for Lamar’s offense, turning in a dominant performance that showcased his explosiveness and toughness.
Thomas rushed for 204 yards and 3 touchdowns, running with excellent balance, pad level, and vision. He’s quick to the hole and fearless through contact, consistently falling forward and creating extra yards.
What makes Thomas special is his ability to blend power with finesse, he can shake a defender in space or lower his shoulder to finish a run. His short-area burst and ability to change direction without losing speed make him a dangerous weapon.
Thomas has been turning heads all season, and Friday night’s showing was another reminder that he’s one of the top junior backs in Texas.
Denzel Ponder | RB | Class of 2026 | Arlington Bowie HS | @PonderDenzel14
In a thrilling 45–38 win over Lamar, Denzel Ponder was the difference-maker. The powerful running back put together a statement performance, rushing for 188 yards and 3 touchdowns in a hard-fought victory.
Ponder runs with purpose, has a compact build, low center of gravity, and powerful leg drive. He consistently breaks tackles and finishes runs, wearing down defenders over four quarters.
He’s not just a bruiser, though. Ponder showed he has the burst to pull away from defenders and the patience to set up blocks effectively. His physical style and consistent production make him a key piece in his team’s offense.
Expect his name to start circulating more in recruiting conversations, Ponder has the size, strength, and mentality college coaches love in a feature back.
Khamill Pruitt | WR | Class of 2026 | Arlington Lamar HS | @KhamPruitt
Wide receiver Khamill Pruitt continues to elevate his game and his recruiting stock. He turned in another standout performance, hauling in 6 catches for 106 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Pruitt is a big-bodied wideout with strong hands, a large catch radius, and smooth route-running ability. He creates separation with quick feet and fluid movement, making him a matchup problem for smaller defensive backs.
His growth over the past few months has been noticeable, and college coaches are taking note. In October alone, Pruitt has picked up offers from TCU, Sacramento State, UTSA, Baylor, Kansas State, and California.
