Recruited by Joe Speed, Marcordes committed to Georgia Tech on Dec. 22, 2010, just a couple of weeks after his official visit to the Flats. He also received offers from the local Illinois schools.
In high school, Marcordes pretty much did whatever the coaches needed him to, playing quarterback, linebacker and safety at Normal Community West High School in Normal, Illinois. All of his contributions earned him team MVP his senior season, where he averaged 9.5 yards per carry and rushed for 20 touchdowns, while also passing for 700 yards and six touchdowns. Because of his success as a senior, Marcordes was named conference player of the year and all-state by Rivals and Champaign News-Gazette.