Thorne leads diverse group
There are athletic playmakers at every position in the area. Quarterback is a bit different because many of the top 10 are fairly new to the position, or at least new to starting full-time. Here’s a look at the top 10 quarterbacks.
1. Payton Thorne, Naperville Central, Sr. (6-2, 170)
The Western Michigan recruit passed for 2,200 yards and 33 touchdowns as a junior. He puts the ball in the sweet spot for his receivers and is calm and collected. His experience and ability make him one of the best quarterbacks in the state.
2. Alante Brown, Simeon, Sr. (5-11, 170)
The Michigan State recruit is so athletic that he can take a hopeless situation and turn it into a big gain. He can play in many spots on the field but is expected to start at quarterback.
3. Carson Ochsenhirt, New Trier, Sr. (5-10, 175)
He’s a dual-threat quarterback who also can play safety and receiver. Ochsenhirt often defaults to the run first, but he has bigplay capability. He shared time as the starter last season but is expected to be the full-time starter this fall.
4. Sebastian Castro, Richards, Sr. (6-1, 200)
The Iowa recruit is very good on both sides of the ball. He could have ended up on the list of best defensive players. Castro has good field vision and a high football IQ. He’s expected to be a major contributor for a Bulldogs squad that should be one of the area’s best teams.
5. Mike Markett, Marist, Sr. (6-0, 180)
He put up major numbers last season with more than 2,100 yards and 25 touchdowns for the Class 8A quarterfinalists. Markett always has had a strong arm and good field vision, but he has improved quite a bit in the offseason. He has a very talented group of receivers to throw to, so expect big things.
6. Austin Martineau, Grayslake North, Sr. (6-3, 185)
A three-year starter for Grayslake North, Martineau has been a quiet weapon for the Knights. He recorded 1,600 passing yards and 21 touchdowns last season. He’s comfortable and collected in the pocket, keeps his feet moving and can throw the long ball. He’s an athlete to keep an eye on.
7. Matt McGraw, Lake Zurich, Sr. (6-4, 190)
The Grant transfer can move around in the pocket and elude the blitz. He has good arm strength and can make plays. He’ll be a major addition to a consistent and talented Lake Zurich squad.
8. JJ McCarthy, Nazareth, So. (6-2, 180)
He’s one of many players on the Roadrunners who can make big plays. McCarthy, who has multiple scholarship offers, has a host of weapons. This season likely will have a bit of a learning curve for McCarthy, but chances are he earns his spot on this list quickly.
9. Jack Meyers, Batavia, Sr. (6-2, 175)
Meyers is making his true debut this fall after backing up Riley Cooper last season. He has plenty of size and speed and good footwork. Meyers has the potential to be a game-changer for the defending Class 7A champions.
10. Greyson Grimm, LincolnWay West, Sr. (5-10, 190)
Grimm played wide receiver and running back last season. He’s a smart athlete who makes good decisions with the ball in his hands. He doesn’t have varsity experience as a quarterback, but his experience with the rest of the offense gives him very good potential. Want the latest information and analysis on high school football? Our preps team of Michael O’Brien, Beth Long and Annie Costabile will share all the latest news, insights and weekly Super 25 rankings in a new livestream show called ‘‘Sun-Times Game Week.’’ The regular-season show will be at 6:30 p.m. every Monday starting next week. Like and follow our high school sports Facebook page for coverage, and watch the show on Facebook Live. You also can ask questions using #suntimesgameweek.