Elite HS programs are different. There are like 5-6 super elite schools that are on a different planet from everyone else like IMG, Gorman, Mater Dei, Bosco, SFA in Baltimore. Then there are 25ish additional powerhouses who can basically also destroy but arent quite as deep in the trenches, schools like STA, American Heritage, Columbus, Good Counsel, Bergen Catholic, Don Bosco in Jersey, Duncanville, Southlake Carroll, DeSoto, Lancaster, Bolles etc. Then there are about a hundred-ish programs that are good. But your average high school football player SHOULD look like trash and poor lil Timmy against guys going to a power 4 school. If a guy does NOT dominate in hs, cough, Dia Bell, it is a major issue. If the guy cant wreck shop in high school ball, dont take him.