As crazy as it may seen to say in October of 2011, the Class of 2013 is already starting to shape up at some positions.
Class of 2013 quarterback JT Barrett has a combined 1,500 yards rushing and passing so far this season and was recently rated as a 96- a four-star prospect- by 247Sports.
In the state of Texas, quarterback is deep and one of the cream of the crop at that position is JT Barrett (Wichita Falls/Rider). The 6-foot-2, 205-pounder with 4.6-second speed in the 40-yard dash has taken his game to another level in 2011 and is quickly emerging as one of the top dual-threat signal callers in the class, nationally.
When I saw him in person against Kennedale and powerhouse Denton Ryan, Barrett displayed very good feet both in the pocket and in the run game. His foot quickness showed up in a reactive manner to constant pressure applied by a swarming Denton Ryan defense and the ability to quickly push through the ground and accelerate in zone read run game. His lower body strength also showed up on numerous occasions. Unless a defender gets a clear shot, he is tough to bring down, and arm tackles or attempted sacks rarely are successful because of that strength.
As a thrower of the ball, his very good feet, overall balance, athleticism and core strength allow him to maximize velocity when need be. He shows the ability to fit the ball in the intermediate game in closing windows and does a very good job of leading receivers in the deep passing game. He accurately zipped passes for completions on slant route, seven routes, a post corner and 10-yard out routes in the games seen live. In the screen game, he displays ideal feel and the footwork needed to make accurate throws when the arm slot is forced to change because of extended arm, high hand pressure. When he has improved from sophomore to junior year is staying on top of the ball and using his core to maximize velocity.
As a runner, his first step is quick and powerful, he shows enough change of direction to maximize runs, has the ability to stick his foot in the ground and create short burst, and is a tough runner that understands and has the flexibility to play high to low and finish runs with forward lean and leg drive.
He also appears to have some intangibles needed for success as a quarterback. Barrett shows natural, not forced leadership abilities. He is smart, yet tough and very competitive. He has displayed the ability to make winning plays and leading winning drives with a calmness about him both during late game plays and in the huddle.
On the recruiting front, Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Oregon, Missouri and others are showing interest. Barrett has attended games at Texas and Oklahoma this season.
In addition to Barrett, the state of Texas features pro-style passer and Texas A&M commitment Kohl Stewart (Houston, Texas/St. Pius X), dual-theat quarterback Tyrone Swoopes (Whitewright, Texas) and Cody Thomas (Colleyville, Texas/Heritage), in the 2013 class at quarterback.
Barrett currently has a 96 rating by 247Sports, which equates to a mid/high four-star prospect.
Barrett’s season stats
Passing: 64 of 103 (62.1%) for 967 yards and eight touchdowns against five interceptions.
Rushing: 108 carries for 620 yards (5.7 YPC) and three touchdowns in eight games.
- Gerry Hamilton
- National Scouting Director - 247Sports