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Ranking the top 10 quarterbacks in Orange County going into the high school football season:
TOP 10 QUARTERBACKS
1. Luke Fahey, Mission Viejo, Sr.
The Ohio State commit continues to build an impressive skill set. After completing 77 percent of his passes last season, Fahey (6-1, 185) showcased his growing leadership in leading the Diablos to three passing tournament titles in the summer. With his leadership and solo role this fall, Fahey is the clear choice at No. 1.
2. Ryan Hopkins, Mater Dei, Sr.
The Wisconsin commit looked comfortable in summer passing competition following his transfer from JSerra. He displayed a quick release and accuracy, two qualities that will complement his running ability. There are questions, however, regarding his eligibility. As of July 23, he was listed by the CIF-SS as a transfer required to sit out the first five games. If Hopkins is not on the field, look for junior Furian Inferrera at QB.
3. Timmy Herr, San Juan Hills, Sr.
Confidence is an important skill for quarterbacks, and Herr’s self-belief appeared on the rise in 7-on-7 competition over the summer. Herr’s demeanor was especially revealing considering his success as a dual-threat quarterback on Friday nights. Last season, Herr (6-0, 210) completed 69 percent of his passes for 2,230 yards and rushed for nine TDs.
4. Brady Edmunds, Huntington Beach, Jr.
The county’s collection of quarterbacks is deeper than some might believe if Edmunds (6-5, 225) — a first-team All-County selection last season — starts at No. 4. Edmunds, who is also committed to Ohio State, is transitioning to a new coach in Matthew Hatchette. The duo showed some areas for growth at the South County passing tournament but Edmunds’ track record is impressive. He passed for 3,222 yards and 36 TDs last season.
5. Trace Johnson, Santa Margarita, Sr.
The transfer from Buchholz in Florida arrives with strong credentials for his transition to the Trinity League. Johnson (6-1, 191), who is committed to Tulane, passed for 3,522 yards and 29 TDs last season for a squad that finished ranked No. 31 in the Florida by MaxPreps. “(Our schedule will be) a little more competitive from what he’s used to in Florida,” Santa Margarita coach Carson Palmer said, “but he looks great.”
6. Chance Thomas, Western, Jr.
At 6-foot-3, 195 pounds, Thomas’ stock continues to rise with his accuracy and ability to move in the pocket. He was limited to seven games last season because of injury but still passed for 1,738 yards and 17 TDs. “He will be a playmaker with his arm and legs,” Pioneers coach Dan Davidson said.
7. Travis Frazier, Esperanza, Sr.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pound Frazier plays in the middle-of-the-pack Kappa League but stands out with his production and ability to throw on the run. He passed for almost 2,700 yards and 31 TDs last season. “I am very impressed with how he is spreading the ball out,” Aztecs coach JP Presley said.
8. Tristan Zale, Trabuco Hills, Sr.
Orange County features several motivated senior quarterbacks, and Zale fits the profile. The 6-foot-2 Zale passed for 2,908 yards and 30 TDs last season in the Mustangs’ Air Raid offense. “He is going to put up great numbers once again,” Trabuco Hills coach Mark Nolan said.
9. DJ Mitchell, La Habra, Jr.
After splitting time the past two seasons, Mitchell (6-2, 173) is the Highlanders’ QB1. He is a dual threat who likes to attack down field but can also break off long runs. La Habra plans to throw the ball more, so expect a rise in production.
10. Alexander Lundsberg, Canyon, Sr.
The Comanches anticipate another big season from Lundsberg, who led Orange County quarterbacks in yards (3,646), touchdowns (43) and attempts (466) last season. He brings more than eye-popping statistics. At 6-foot-2 and 205 pounds, he’s a well-rounded athlete who also excels in lacrosse.