Interview: 2017 Southside DT Hunter Moreton Preps to Take Nasty Play to Arkansas State
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
There are a lot of things that can be said about Fort Smith Southside defensive tackle/offensive lineman Hunter Moreton and each is a positive. One that might sound like a negative but is of the utmost compliment, Moreton gets nasty on the gridiron.
Time and time again Moreton has proven his abilities on the field lining up against some of the best talent in the state of Arkansas. Seemingly playing every position on the offensive line, Moreton is the kind of guy you want on your team but do not want to face. Getting nasty on the field is what football coaches love to see in their linemen, and that is exactly what Moreton did for the Mavericks over the past two seasons. The upside, the 6-1, 285 pound, go-getter does the same thing on defense punishing opposing linemen for four quarters while delivering blows to running backs making them think twice before trying to sprint through his gap.
Arkansas State loved Moreton’s attitude and athletic abilities on the field accepting his verbal commitment on April 15. Moreton is following in his older brother’s footsteps by heading to Jonesboro. Austin Moreton (6-1, 314) has been the starting right guard for the Red Wolves the last two seasons after being named an All-State during his high school days in Fort Smith.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Hunter at the conclusion of his senior campaign covering his year and his love for Arkansas State football.
Interview
Hunter, really-really tough question out of the gate. Did you get any tackle eligible plays for a touchdown during your senior year like you did last year?
(Laughs) “I did not. We had it in the book but did not do it.”
That’s a shame. In the best sense of the expression, you are nasty out there. What is your mentality on every play?
“I just want to line up and let the other person know they are not better than me. I want a pancake on offense and a tackle for a loss on defense.”
Between two positions, offensive line and defensive line, which do you like best?
“I’ll be playing defense in college. I like playing defense.”
How did your senior season go?
“I was pleased with my play and stats but not pleased with how our season went as a whole.”
Do you know your stats on defense for your senior year?
“I’m not 100 percent positive but I think I had 78 total tackles, 13 tackles for a loss, 2.5 sacks, and two fumble recoveries.”
How did your game get better in 2016 over your junior season?
“I played more defense this year. That was a whole new thing for me. I got better at playing through every play and running to the ball on every play. I was playing lower than I did last year. That helped too.”
What are the strengths of your game as a defensive lineman?
“I played on the offensive line so I know the blocking schemes. I read plays well and I use my hands well. I’m not the best pass rusher but against the run I use my hands well.”
Have you started your off-season workouts yet?
“Yeah. I have a trainer I go to four days a week. On Fridays in the morning I run.”
Did you max out in the weight room over the summer?
“No, I had surgery so I did not get to max at all.”
Do you know what you were doing before your surgery?
“My bench was around 325, squat 450, and my power clean was 300.”
Impressive. What did you have surgery on in the off-season?
“I had a torn labrum in my shoulder. I played my junior season with it torn.”
What will you work on with your skill set during the off-season?
“My hips and work with my hands. I want to get off blocks better. I’m also working on being more flexible.”
Another question I am sure you’ve been asked a million time but, what led you to commit to Arkansas State?
“The coaching staff up there is great. They are like a family. You do not feel left out around them. They make you feel like you are one of their kids. The town itself is like Fort Smith. It feels like home. I have been up there a lot. My brother is up there. I have been to the stadium, I don’t know how many times.”
Which position did ASU recruit you to play?
“Defensive tackle. They have an even front. I think I will be a 1-technique.”
Are there any other schools showing recruiting interest in you right now?
“Not right now. After I committed they have not shown much interest.”
When do you take your official to ASU?
“I’m taking my official in January.”
Are you helping recruit other players to join you in Jonesboro?
“One of Fayetteville’s players, Ty Clary (2017 OL). If I see him I try to talk to him about ASU.”
What has you most excited about playing for the Red Wolves next season?
“The experience I will get playing college ball. Their coaching staff is really good. They make you feel like family. Just getting to play the game I love.”
Hunter, thanks for your time today and good luck at ASU.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credits: Moreton family; Hunter Moreton at ASU.
Photo credit: HS All Access; No. 76 Hunter Moreton.