A new generation of backs
The 2026 prep football season is already generating buzz across the North Bay, where a handful of elite rushers are poised to dominate the conversation. Their performances on the field are not just numbers; they are stories of perseverance, talent, and the promise of collegiate futures.
At American Canyon High, Isaac Anderson capped his junior year with 741 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns, a feat that earned him 14 collegiate offers. His blend of speed and vision has positioned him as a coveted prospect for programs seeking a reliable workhorse.
Meanwhile, James Curoso of Cardinal Newman brings a different kind of excitement. After transferring from Clovis, the 3‑star recruit amassed 1,836 total yards and 32 touchdowns as a sophomore, drawing interest from powerhouses such as Oregon, Cal, USC, Utah and Washington. His All‑State second‑team accolade underscores the impact he’s already making.
Carson Brown of Cloverdale, a senior who earned all‑league honors in the North Central League I, added 715 yards and six touchdowns to his résumé, proving that consistency can translate into respect across the league.
Andrew Godfrey, a senior at Maria Carrillo, emerged as the Pumas’ leading rusher with 873 yards and 12 touchdowns, a testament to his durability and knack for finding the end zone.
Christopher Thompson of Ukiah took a leap onto the regional spotlight, earning second‑team Redwood Empire Conference Adobe division honors as a sophomore. He logged 1,138 yards and 22 touchdowns, including five games with over 100 rushing yards, signaling a breakout trajectory.
The depth of talent extends beyond these headline names. Gabriel Suarez from Windsor has stepped into a primary starting role this season, while Icy Terrell Davis adds another layer of intrigue for scouts watching the next wave of playmakers.
What these numbers mean for the future
The common thread among these athletes is not just statistical achievement but the growing recruitment momentum that accompanies it. Colleges are increasingly scouting the North Bay, recognizing that the region produces backs who combine raw power with strategic agility. As signing day approaches, the decisions of these players will ripple through both high school programs and the broader college football landscape.
Fans and analysts alike are watching closely, aware that each yard gained could translate into a scholarship offer, a future draft pick, or even a new chapter for the schools that nurtured these talents. The narrative is still unfolding, but the foundation has already been laid.