One to Watch Interview with Rising 2020 California OG Julian Clemons
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Photo credits: Melinda Rodriguez
Twitter: @mrodzphoto
A movement is going on with the Rebels of Quartz Hill High School under head coach James Vondra. Over the past two seasons, the Rebels’ football team has posted a 23-6 record racing to a CIF state title game in 2017. The schemes from the sidelines are working with the talent being groomed on the field turning out great results across the board. The 2017 roster will see a big shake-up with the loss of seniors like quarterback Matthew Tago, running back Entonio Washington, corner/receiver Davon Jones, defensive back/receiver Russell Dace, linebacker Dawson Barrett, and tight end/defensive end Randy Clemons, but there is reason to believe the Rebels will once again be a team no one wants to face on the gridiron when the 2018 season rolls around thanks to rising underclassmen stars like Julian Clemons.
Clemons (6-2, 240) was one of those sophomores that bullied his way into the Rebels’ starting lineup by getting after it in practice. Starting at right guard, he worked his pass-set keeping defenders off four-star quarterback/linebacker Matthew Tago and blew open holes in the run game for his running back corps. The experienced gained in a title run season, coupled with the loss of a lot of terrific senior talent, is a call to action for Clemons to step up his game to another level while providing the Quartz Hill area squad with needed leadership going forward.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the player’s to watch on the recruiting trail in California’s 2020 class to learn more about his game and offseason workouts.
Interview
Julian, the Rebels (13-2) had a heck of a season in 2017 making a run to the state title game. What was the season like for you making the title run and playing 15 games?
“It was a good experience to play with all the seniors. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, I played with my brother, Randy.”
How did your skillset improve from Game 1 to the final game of the season?
“Going into Game 1, I was still learning the plays and trying to settle in as a starter. Our offensive line coach, Coach Martinez, went over everything with me to help me. He taught me techniques that helped me improve throughout the season. My quickness on my kick step got better with my pass protection.”
Which game was your best last season?
“I’d say Antelope Valley. I was going against Dylan Hall (3-star 2019 DE). I was able to stop him from getting to the quarterback.”
What do you consider the strengths of your game?
“Right now, my pass pro is my best skill. I have good footwork. I have good hands, good hand placement. I work with my line coach, he has 25 years coaching.
What are you working on this offseason?
“I am working on getting stronger in weight room. Coach Frank opens the weight room up for us to workout. I am trying to put on weight. I am working with the Men In The Trenches, with Coach Jesse Sapolu (49ers) on my blocking.”
Have you maxed out in the weight room this spring?
“Yes. I hit 285 on bench and 405 on squat.”
Do you plan on attending any college camps this summer?
“Yes. I plan on attending a UNLV camp, the USC Prospect Camp, and hopefully I will get up to NAU (Northern Arizona) and some Redlands camps.”
Do you plan on attending any other camps or combines this spring?
“I am going to the Polynesian Camp in Las Vegas on April 9.”
Nice. Which schools are showing interest in you already?
“Utah and Northern Arizona.”
Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“I am visiting UNLV in April when we are in Vegas for the Polynesian Camp.”
When do you guys pick up spring practices?
“In May.”
What do you guys have to do this spring to ensure another great season in 2018?
“We have to work hard. We have a young team and we have to fill in all the spots from our seniors. We will have a new offensive line, but we will be good. It should be a good season for us.”
What is one goal you have set for yourself that you want to accomplish before team camp begins in August?
“I want to get my weight up and become a captain. I want to show my leadership to the coaches on and off the field.”
Julian, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
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*Photos: No. 73 Julian Clemons