The Corona (Calif.) Santiago High School gym was packed with well-wishers on Thursday morning, as quarterback Blake Barnett received his Under Armour All-America Game jersey in a ceremony attended by friends, family, classmates, teammates, the band's drumline, cheerleaders, office administrators, district officials, the assistant superintendent, school board member and several coaches.

It was an example of the respect and admiration Barnett receives at Santiago High School and in the Corona area. That was followed by an example of how Barnett became so well respected, as well as the No. 16 prospect in the country and an Alabama commitment.

When a video began playing, documenting Barnett's life, all eyes -- except two -- were focused on the screen. Barnett alone stayed facing away from the video.

"That the first time I really saw him a little embarrassed, when they turned on the video," said his father, Lance Barnett. "He's not a 'look at me' guy and that really helps his drive and motivation."

Barnett was an absolute unknown on the recruiting trail until late in his junior season, which his father believes helped him get to where he is today.

"He wasn't caught up in any of the hype of recruiting and it allowed him to stay focused," said the elder Barnett.

After initially committing to Notre Dame, Barnett evaluated all of his options before settling on Alabama. Now, the 6-foot-5, 200 pound dual-threat quarterback is set on the Crimson Tide and everything that comes with possibly becoming the face of one of college football's most recognizable programs.

"I think it's going to be a big transition," Barnett said. "If I'm fortunate enough to get to that point, it will be different, but I think I can adapt to it."

Humble in the spotlight, Barnett is adamant that he knows how to have fun and brings with him a great sense of humor. That was on display a few weeks ago when Barnett visited his future home and took a number of photos with Alabama fans.

He's headed there again this weekend with his father and Barnett said the trips to Tuscaloosa are enjoyable and enlightening.

"They're a lot of fun," Barnett said of the visits. "I get to see the commits that are down there, which is nice because I don't get to see them very often. And it's exciting to watch the game, obviously, and to spend time with the coaches. Another exciting thing is to see the fan base because they're so passionate about the game and it's nice to see a good support system behind the program."

Seven questions with Blake Barnett

Who is the one player in the Under Armour All-America Game you are most looking forward to playing with?

"Calvin Ridley, absolutely. Obviously we're going to the next level together so I want to get some work playing with him. I got some experience with him at The Opening but I can't wait to be on the field with him and play some actual football."

If you could start your team with any one prospect from the 2015 class, who would it be?

"It'd most likely be Calvin Ridley. I think he's going to be a tremendous player and I think he's going to be a great attribute to the team."

What is your earliest football memory?

"I can remember my first practice. It was really exciting; it was different. It was a big change for me. I'd played baseball and soccer before that, but football was always different. I was eight at the time and I had no idea what to do. My dad had no former player experience so it was kind of a transition. But it was fun and it's been a good ride."

Was there a football player you looked up to or idolized growing up?

"Not specifically. I always looked at the positive players in the NFL -- guys like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning -- players who have been dominant in football. I think those are good role models to have. I didn't necessarily try to model my game after them. I just think what they did on the field is great and they handled themselves well off the field as well."

If you could take on any pro at their sport, who would it be?

"I'd take on Ronaldo in Fifa. I'd take him on in the video game."

Why do you wear your number (8)?

"I've always had it. Growing up I was either seven or eight. I picked eight and I stuck with it and I really like it. Hopefully I'll be able to play with it at the next level."

What is one thing most people don't know about you?

"I'm not the same person in the same interview every time with a monotone voice. I'm pretty funny. Everyone is kind of the same voice in interviews because you don't want to mess around too much, but in different environments I'm a fun person and not so monotone."