2021 QB Preston Stone Recaps Big Season & Notre Dame Interest

2021 Parish Episcopal (Texas) quarterback Preston Stone‍ took the state by storm as a freshman by throwing for 2,937 yards and 29 touchdowns last fall. The big season caught the eye of 36 programs who have offered the 6-foot-2, 185-pounder a scholarship, but Stone followed it up with a big 2018. 

“It was a great season and probably the biggest year of development for me as a quarterback,” Stone told Irish Sports Daily. “I really learned a lot this year and playing with my brother (Parker Stone) was special. He’ll graduate this year, so it was great to play with him this year.” 

Stone threw for 3,531 yards, 44 touchdowns and just six interceptions while completing 62% of his passes this fall as he dealt with much more attention from opposing teams. 

“I really learned what it meant to be someone who has attention and people coming are me every play,” explained Stone, who also rushed for 444 yards and nine touchdowns. “I learned the best way to approach it and play for your brothers who are next to you. My teammates and I put in so much work this offseason, and they really helped me see what it’s like to be part of a team. It was really special.” 

It’s a blessing for any prospect to hold offers from the likes of Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Georgia, LSU, Michigan, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Penn State, Texas, Texas A&M and Washington State, but with that comes the pressure Stone referenced. 

Fans, coaches, and the opponent expect big performances and highlights every game. Stone felt the added pressure this fall but also realized he was the same person he was last year.

“My development in that aspect grew a lot,” stated Stone. “I did feel the pressure on my shoulders. Pressure to perform and to live up to the expectations of others. I realized that I’m still me. I’m still who I am. I place my security in what my teammates, coaches, and family thinks of me and not what others think of me.” 

Notre Dame has offered two quarterbacks in the 2021 class and Stone is one of them. The Irish have made two stops at Parish Episcopal, including one last week. 

“Coach (Tom) Rees came by in the spring,” Stone said. “I spoke with him in the spring, and he was a great guy. Coach (Autry) Denson came by last week. He mentioned they don’t have to play in a conference championship because they are independent and I thought that was cool.

“They’ll be in the playoffs this year, so that’s exciting for them.” 

Stone is definitely aware of the 12-0 season and admitted winning games is important as he wants to play for a winning program. 

“When I decide where I want to go, it’s going to come down to the culture and how I fit in there,” Stone explained. “The primary goal is always winning. That’s really awesome for Notre Dame that they’ve had an undefeated season.” 

When it comes to visits, Stone wants to get to South Bend to check out the Irish and will likely set a visit schedule in the coming weeks.

“My season just ended, but I’m sure this week or next week I’ll get together with my parents and figure out a schedule where and when I’m going to visit,” stated Stone. “I definitely have interest in Notre Dame right now.” 

When Stone does make the trip to South Bend, he’ll likely see a familiar face in defensive end NaNa Osafo-Mensah‍. Parish Episcopal topped Nolan Catholic 27-14 in the State Playoffs, and Stone threw for 310 yards and scored a total of four touchdowns. 

“NaNa is a great guy and someone I definitely look up to,” said Stone. “He exemplifies what it means to be a great athlete with great character. It was fun to play against him. I’ll admit he got me a few times, but at the end of the day, it’s all fun, and he’s a great guy.”