The 2026 South Carolina High School Football League season is poised to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, especially at the quarterback position. With a deep pool of talent across the Upstate, analysts have compiled a ranking of the ten most promising signal‑callers set to lead their teams onto the field.
The Upstate’s Quarterback Crop
Leading the list is Jace Grass, a junior at Daniel High School, who has already amassed 2,779 passing yards and 31 touchdowns. His performance has attracted interest from several collegiate programs, underscoring his status as a top recruit.
Close behind is Sam Holliday from Fountain Inn, a senior whose dual‑threat abilities have yielded 2,123 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and 897 rushing yards with 17 scores. His versatility makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Makoreann Anderson of Wallington Mountain View Prep brings a rare combination of arm strength and athleticism, posting 3,015 passing yards and 35 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,177 yards and 23 more scores.
Sophomore Bear Woods at Westside continues to generate buzz after throwing for 2,318 yards and 22 touchdowns, a feat that has earned him multiple university offers.
Mason Evans, a senior at Crescent, rounds out the top tier with 2,223 passing yards and 26 touchdowns, complemented by 1,032 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns, painting a picture of a complete offensive weapon.
Gideon Merhib from Byrnes, another senior, has posted 2,350 passing yards and 19 touchdowns, adding 822 rushing yards and eight scores, while Brooks Dow of Pickens brings a balanced skill set with 1,550 passing yards and 17 touchdowns alongside 1,083 rushing yards and 19 touchdowns.
Jackson Free of Hillcrest stands out with 2,420 passing yards and 36 touchdowns, plus 291 rushing yards and nine scores, positioning him as a potential game‑changer.
Evan‑Reece Lawter from Chesnee contributes 1,123 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, while also passing for 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns, illustrating his all‑purpose impact.
Connor Davis of Woodruff rounds the top ten with 2,554 passing yards and 30 touchdowns, adding 213 rushing yards and five scores, rounding out a list that reflects the depth of talent in the region.