The Derion Kendrick Hype Is Justified

South Pointe quarterback Derion Kendrick is the best player in South Carolina.

Sep 15, 2017 by Kolby Paxton

Derion Kendrick is a quarterback -- for now. He's also his South Pointe (SC) team's best option at wide receiver, cornerback, safety, or running back.

This is the part where we'd normally drop a Sammy Baugh or Jim Thorpe reference, but then our younger readers would be forced to consult with Google -- thus, distracting from the point of this tale, which is Kendrick's genuine uniqueness.

It's not all that noteworthy that an athlete of his caliber would be his high school team's best player overall and at multiple positions. It is made noteworthy by the fact that his high school is South Pointe -- a program that has given us Jadeveon Clowney and Stephon Gilmore and is loaded with six of the top 60 players in the state this season.

Kendrick is a standout among standouts.

The Stallions senior quarterback, who next leads his team in a road test at Buford (GA) on Friday night, is one of the most dangerous dual-threat field generals in the country. A year ago, Kendrick tossed for 2,625 yards and 29 touchdowns against just six interceptions -- and ran for another 488 yards and five scores -- in leading South Pointe to its third consecutive state title.

Two weeks ago, Kendrick wasn't just good in a blowout victory over Nation Ford. He was perfect -- as in 18 for 18 for 324 yards and four touchdown passes -- and added a 5-yard touchdown run for good measure.

And yet, the Clemson commitment won't even be slinging it when he heads to Death Valley next year. The Tigers intend for Kendrick to be on the receiving end of passes -- but it's not for a lack of arm talent:

Kendrick made his Stallions debut as a freshman -- which, again, is a feat made even more impressive by the relative success and depth of talent at South Pointe. Since then, according to head coach Strait Herron, the four-star prospect rated No. 1 overall in South Carolina has played every skill position on the field.

His ability as a passer, significant as it may be, is surpassed by athleticism and playmaking ability that has few rivals.

Exhibit A:

Exhibit B:

Exhibit C:

And, for good measure, Exhibit Hit Stick:

Where Kendrick lines up for Clemson next fall remains somewhat of a mystery, but he won't be hard to find on Friday night. Just look for the guy making plays -- appropriately wearing the No. 1.

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