Interview: 2018 RB Danny Smith Shows Talent Travels from Arkansas to California
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
With as much diversity in personalities, cultures, and backgrounds as seen on the recruiting trail, the landscape, shockingly, is not without its prejudices. One big hitch in evaluating players, talents from “smaller” states typically do not get the same respect as their counterparts taking their comeuppance over size of town and state. One person helping break the stereotype one carry at a time is Danny Smith.
Smith was widely overlooked by college coaches in Arkansas after a junior season filled with over 1,000 rush yards with 11 touchdowns for Morrilton High School. A change in scenery brought him to California in the offseason where his athletic talents were instantly recognized and appreciated. Before playing a game for his new high school, Smith, off spring evaluation and 7v7 tape, was within weeks receiving interest from the likes of USC, Arizona State, Wyoming, Arizona, and UCLA.
Looking good in t-shirt and shorts is one thing, but Smith produced the other – convincing California game reel. The 6-0, 210 pound, running back has not disappointed west coast scouts rushing for 1,389 yards off 156 carries with 18 touchdowns on the ground while hauling in nine passes for 180 more yards with another score posted on the board in 2017 in stats posted through eight games.
As Smith’s athleticism peaks averaging 8.9 yards per carry and 173.6 yards per game during his senior year, his recruitment is going into overdrive. With offers on the table from Boise State, New Mexico, California-Davis, Hawaii, and San Diego State, Smith is getting a deep look from Cal and USC heading towards the early signing period.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Smith covering his breakthrough senior season and his intensifying recruiting process.
Interview
Danny, Oxnard finished the season strong downing Pacifica 47-17, how did the game go?
“It went great. I had three touchdowns and over 240 yards rushing. The team played well on both sides of the ball. Every time Pacifica went into the red zone, our defense picked it off and kept putting us in a good position to score each time.”
The Yellowjackets had a great season posting an 8-2 (7-3) record, what were the strengths this year for the team?
“Our quarterback, our receivers, and our running game. I have to give a shout out to offensive line. On defense, they protected against the run really well. We were also strong against the passing game this year.”
What kind of offense does Oxnard execute?
“The Spread.
How are you used within the offense?
“Sometimes I’m at receiver but most of the time I’m in the backfield. We go downhill, then we start spreading them out and eventually start throwing shots downfield.”
How did your skillset improve this season?
“It has improved massively. Every game I got better. My vision has gotten better this year.”
Which game was your best this year?
“Westlake (won 47-34). They stacked the box against us. The tried to stop me but it did not work. I kept running it down their throats.”
*Smith had 33 carries for 209 yards with four touchdowns against Westlake
What is the playoff scenario like for the Yellowjackets?
“I think we have the No. 1 seed.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you but have not offered yet?
“Cal and USC.”
How many offers do you have now?
“I have five offers from Boise State, UC Davis, San Diego State, Hawaii, and New Mexico.”
Have you taken any official visits yet?
“No.”
Do you have any planned visits set?
“I’m going to Hawaii after the season is over.”
What are you looking for in the perfect fit for the next level school and program?
“I’m looking for a scheme that fits me and which team needs me the most.”
Danny, thanks for your time today and good luck in the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Danny Smith at a 7v7 tournament