Mater Dei's Barkley selected No. 1 recruit in the nation

Mater Dei quarterback Matt Barkley picked up another significant honor Tuesday by being selected the No. 1 recruit in the nation for the Class of 2009 by Scouts Inc.

Barkley, who is going into his senior season, is the first county player to receive that honor, surpassing former Servite linebacker Chris Galippo, who was ranked No. 2 in the final Top 150 for 2007. (The Scouts Inc. national list will be updated throughout the fall and winter until a final list is published in February.)

The only other player from O.C. to make this year's Top 150 was Mission Viejo's Alex Mascarenas, who has committed to UCLA, at No. 127 overall. 

Last year there were five players from the county on the final Top 150 for the Class of 2008: Orange Lutheran's Blake Ayles (No. 20), Servite's D.J. Shoemate (No. 59), Mater Dei's Khaled Holmes (No. 67), Servite's Matt Kalil (No. 73) and Edison's Nick Crissman (No. 111).

For the Class of 2007, there were three county players in the final Top 150: Galippo, Orange Lutheran's Aaron Corp (No. 33) and Edison's Martin Coleman (No. 68).

Here is part of the Scouts Inc. report on Barkley, who has committed to USC: "Barkley's polish, mechanics, footwork - and most importantly, his production - already give him the look of a college player. He has prototype size and is a true pocket passer. ... Does the little things very, very well. Has Tom Brady-like athleticism - just enough to sidestep the rush and buy a second chance to unload the ball. ... Has a very good (if not great) arm, and can put some mustard on his throws when necessary. Compensates for any lack of ideal zip with timing and an understanding of when the ball needs to get out. ... Pocket awareness, timing, size and arm strength define his game."

And here is what Scouts Inc. said about Mascarenas: "Mascarenas is "Mr. Everything" on the gridiron. Even though he's only 5'10" 175 (pounds), he performs like a giant. As a wide receiver is practically unstoppable. ... Mascarenas is a very talented all around athlete that could excel at the next level as a wide receiver or corner."

To read more about Barkley and Mascarenas and to see the complete Top 150, click here.  

Contact the writer: preps@ocregister.com