The 2023 high school football season in North Carolina has sparked a debate over the best sophomore quarterback, with voting open until February 14th. Eight candidates have been selected based on their notable performances, including Lan Farmer from Shelby, Faizon Brandon from Grimsley, John Kirkpatrick from Randleman, Gannon Jones from Cardinal Gibbons, Izeiah Oates from Eastern Wayne, Chance Cato from Olympic, Jackson Debe from Providence, and Grant Lawless from East Lincoln. Each quarterback's statistics and impact on their respective teams have been highlighted to guide fans in their voting decision.

Why It Matters

The voting process recognizes and celebrates the outstanding performances of young talent in high school football, encouraging engagement and acknowledgment of their contributions. It provides the opportunity for fans to voice their opinions and contribute to the recognition of promising players.

By the Numbers
  • Lan Farmer (Shelby): 196-of-301 passes, 3,399 yards, 44 touchdowns
  • Faizon Brandon (Grimsley): 191-of-277 passes, 3,026 yards, 36 touchdowns, 3 interceptions
  • John Kirkpatrick (Randleman): 148-of-232 passes, 2,283 yards, 32 touchdowns, 8 interceptions
  • Gannon Jones (Cardinal Gibbons): 132-of-185 passes, 2,193 yards, 29 touchdowns, 3 interceptions
  • Izeiah Oates (Eastern Wayne): 105-of-191 passes, 2,350 yards, 26 touchdowns
  • Chance Cato (Olympic): 2,207 passing yards, 14 touchdowns
  • Jackson Debe (Providence): 2,170 passing yards, 26 touchdowns
  • Grant Lawless (East Lincoln): 101-of-175 passes, 1,599 yards, 20 touchdowns, 1 interception
State of Play
  • Voting is open until February 14th, 2024
  • The goal is to conduct a final poll including all the sophomores that won in the state-by-state voting process
  • The voting process aims to be inclusive and fun, allowing fans to express their opinions without setting limits on the number of times they can vote
Bottom Line

The "best sophomore quarterback" poll recognizes and celebrates the exceptional talent of young quarterbacks, fostering engagement and recognition within the high school football community.