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UCLA Football commit Dorian Thompson-Robinson is the next breakout star

By Keir Chapman

Sep 24, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) looks to the sideline during a break in play against the Stanford Cardinal during the second half at Rose Bowl. The Stanford Cardinal won 22-13. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 24, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) looks to the sideline during a break in play against the Stanford Cardinal during the second half at Rose Bowl. The Stanford Cardinal won 22-13. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /
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2018 UCLA Football commit Dorian Thompson-Robinson was named to the Elite 11 list, putting him in the conversation as the nation’s top prospect despite having never started.

All aboard the UCLA quarterback hype train. No, this isn’t another piece about “Chosen Rosen’s” ability to bring the UCLA Football team to the promise land. The focus is on Dorian Thompson-Robinson, the 2018 commit who has yet to start for Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, but has stolen the national recruiting spotlight.

The dual-threat QB earned a spot on the Elite 11 list after a three-day competition in Redondo Beach. To do so, he had to stand out against 23 of the country’s top quarterbacks in a series of passing drills, a pro-day style workout, and a 7-on-7 drill on Sunday. Thomas-Robinson proved to be up to the task.

SBNation.com reports that Thompson-Robinson came away as one of the most impressive quarterbacks of the weekend.

"The UCLA commit easily had his best showing on Sunday. He had eight touchdowns, and was impressively accurate with the ball. He definitely was one of the more impressive guys that left a lasting impression."

Thompson-Robinson’s inclusion on the Elite 11 list allows him to attend The Opening Finals at the Nike World Headquarters. This exclusive invitation is handed out to just 166 of the nation’s top prospects and is touted as the most high profile high school football event in the nation. The showcase in Beaverton, OR spans from June 28-July 3, and serves as a venue for scouts and media to catch a glimpse of the NCAA’s next stars.

MORE: 4-Star QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson commits to UCLA

For those wondering how Thompson-Robinson has generated so much hype as a backup quarterback, his highlights tell the tale.

Watching the tape invokes memories of Brett Hundley slinging and running his way into UCLA’s record books. Thompson-Robinson has a slightly smaller frame, standing at 6′ 2″ and 194 lbs., but speed and an ability to elude defenders is a trait both share.

What is more important is Thompson-Robinson’s poise in the pocket and elite precision. Like Hundley, Thomas-Robinson goes through his progressions before running. He has the arm strength and touch on the ball to deliver perfect passes when there is an opening.

The stats Thompson-Robinson have further solidifies the potential he possesses. In two season, he has thrown four touchdowns to just one interception with a 66% completion rate. This is combined with nine rushing touchdowns on 8.4 yards per carry, and eight receiving touchdowns.

Thompson-Robinson’s time at the helm of Bishop Gorman in 2018 will be the true test to see if he’s prepared to be UCLA’s next quarterback. Until then, Bruins faithful have another season to watch Josh Rosen’s prolific play before he heads the NFL.

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UCLA’s quarterback situation has been nothing short of stellar in recent history. Thompson-Robinson can add on to that legacy if he produces anywhere near Brett Hundley’s level.