ESPN RISE

Here's a preseason look at the players to watch in the greater Pittsburgh area:

PRIME-TIME PLAYERS

C.J. BROWN
Brown is a talented, mobile quarterback with a good arm. The Maryland recruit threw for more than 1,500 yards last year, tossing for 11 touchdowns. He also ran for five scores.

TODD THOMAS
Whether it's rushing, receiving or lining up as a defensive end, Thomas can do it all. He's also a standout basketball player and has been recruited heavily in both sports.

JUANTEZ HOLLINS
Hollins can dominate a game in the trenches with his tremendous size and strength. He'll join former Quips standout Jonathan Baldwin at Pittsburgh next season.

DAN MASON
Few players have a nose for the ball like Mason. He had 17 tackles in one game last year, a playoff contest against North Allegheny, and is an anchor for one of the better defensive teams in the WPIAL.

COACH'S TAKE

AN AREA COACH ON JORDAN HALL:
"He's a terrific athlete. He's one of those kids who can do a little bit of everything. People will find out a little more about him this year now that he's under the spotlight from (former Jeannette QB Terrelle) Pryor."