Central's Daylyn Upshaw Continues to Turn Heads with Dynamic Scoring Ability

PHENIX CITY – Some receivers possess an innate talent that allows them to read the field, position their bodies perfectly, connect with their quarterback, and score when it matters most. Central High School’s standout senior wide receiver, Daylyn Upshaw, has demonstrated time and time again that he’s one of those rare talents.

A key player in Central’s 13-0 state championship run last season, Upshaw finished second on the team in receiving.

Now, in his senior year, his role has expanded significantly, and the numbers reflect it. Upshaw has become a crucial component of the Red Devils' pursuit of another state title and potentially a perfect season.

In Week 3 against Dothan, Upshaw delivered an electric performance, hauling in six receptions for 188 yards and four touchdowns. The previous week, against Smiths Station, he recorded seven catches, three touchdowns, and over 100 all-purpose yards.

After just five games, Upshaw has amassed 21 receptions for 478 yards and 10 touchdowns. By comparison, his junior season saw him pull in 59 receptions for 1,185 yards and 15 touchdowns. With such impressive stats early in the season, Upshaw is well on track to surpass last year’s numbers.

Upshaw’s contributions to the Red Devils began in his sophomore year, with 30 receptions for 442 yards and three touchdowns. His cumulative career numbers now exceed 2,100 all-purpose yards. While he’s averaged 71.9 yards per game throughout his high school career. His senior year has seen that figure rise to 102.8 yards per game.

From a scouting perspective, Upshaw’s physical attributes make him a tantalizing prospect. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing in at around 180 pounds, he mirrors the build of NFL stars like Jaylen Waddle of the Miami Dolphins and Odell Beckham Jr. of the Baltimore Ravens. Rated as a four-star recruit by 247Sports Composite, Upshaw’s talent has not gone unnoticed.

On July 13, 2024, Upshaw committed to the Miami Hurricanes, choosing them over several top programs, including Auburn and Florida.

His playmaking ability and confidence on the field embody the swagger and style synonymous with Miami’s elite wide receivers. With 10 touchdowns in five games, Upshaw’s senior season has kept the attention of college scouts across the country, and he remains a player to watch as the year unfolds.

Upshaw will face his biggest test yet on Friday, September 27, when Central takes on nationally ranked IMG Academy from Florida. Both teams are highly ranked, and the matchup promises to be a thrilling contest.

The game will be broadcast live on the NFHS Network at 7 p.m.

Currently, Central holds a 5-0 record and is undefeated in region play at 3-0. The Red Devils have scored 236 points while allowing 97.

IMG, with a 4-1 record, suffered their only loss in a close 35-34 battle against Corner Canyon (Utah) in Week 1.

As the season progresses, Upshaw will continue to be a key player for the Red Devils, and we wish him and the team continued success in their quest for another state championship.