The Thompson Warriors pulled off the most improbable finish to a football game ever when they overcame a nine-point deficit in less than one minute to win the 7A state championship game. What got overlooked in this viral moment is that the Warriors were without their starting quarterback for most of the game and had to depend heavily on a big spark in a small package. That spark was Ryan Peppins.
Peppins proved to be Mr. Reliable for the Warriors down the stretch in that game. His score in the third quarter is what cut the Auburn Tigers’ lead down to nine points. He finished the night with ten receptions for 95 yards and one touchdown as a wide receiver. He also ran in a score.
This performance was nothing new for Peppins as he put on a show throughout his junior year. The Thompson product had 63 catches for 1,138 receiving yards to go along with 18 total touchdowns. He also added 1,626 all-purpose yards.
At 5-foot-7 and 158 pounds, Peppins is easily one of the shortest players in the country. But he plays much bigger than that. He is very elusive in the open field and can change directions at the drop of a dime. His compact frame allows him to run with toughness.
The junior can create separation when he gets into the open field with his breakaway speed. Peppins has been developing this elite speed as a track athlete where he has posted some impressive times. He has a personal record of 10.9 seconds in the 100-meter dash and has clocked in at 6.95 seconds in the 60-meter dash. He reportedly runs a 4.3 in the forty-yard dash.
Thompson uses Peppins primarily at wide receiver. The Warriors like to give him the ball in open space and let him work. He is also a weapon in the return game.
Peppins said he feels he brings versatility to the field.
“I bring agility, speed and a high IQ to the field,” Peppins told Touchdown Alabama.
WATCH Ryan Peppins Highlights Video:
It is evident to Peppins that some college coaches will see his height as a knock on his game, but he sees it as extra motivation.
“I have heard that my whole life,” Peppins said. “I see that as motivation. When I get on the field, I feel like I am 7-foot tall. I feel like I am a gorilla on the field, and no one can stop me. I have had that mindset since little league.”
Eastern Kentucky and Arkansas Baptist college have offered Peppins, and Florida State is showing interest. Peppins could see his offer list grow soon.
The state of Alabama’s best kept secret will soon get the recognition he deserves as this tiny powder keg is set to provide a huge explosion soon enough.
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Justin Smith is a Scouting/Recruiting analyst for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can follow him on Twitter, via @Jdsmith31Smith
