Interview: 2020 Arkansas WR Jake Meaders Talks Breakthrough 2018 Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The Bryant Hornets have been a team on the verge of turning the proverbial corner over the past two seasons running their 2017 record to 10-2 before a semifinal loss to Bentonville in the playoffs. With a great portion of the roster returning, hopes in the central Arkansas area were high that the Hornets could make a run for the 7A state title in 2018… and that is what they did. Bryant ran their record to 11-2 avenging a regular season 34-28 loss to defending state champs North Little Rock in the 2018 championship game winning 27-7. The run to capture the trophy did not happen without guys like Class of 2020 receiver Jake Meaders stepping up, and in a really big way.
With Ren Hefley (Michigan) guiding the offense again in the pocket during his senior year, Meaders moved from a role of back-up quarterback to receiver to help out the squad, a move the proved invaluable. The 5-10, 165-pound, target was a vertical threat and a chain mover throughout the season hitting stride at his new position pulling in 46 passes for 597 yards with five touchdowns working his way to becoming the team leader in yards, catches, and touchdowns. The work on the gridiron was rewarded with first team All-Conference honors and attention along the recruiting trail.
In an RNG exclusive, I sat down with the 4.1 cumulative GPA with a 32 on the ACT student-athlete to learn more about his game on the field.
Interview
Jake, I’m sure you have answered this question a thousand times, but what was the championship run like for you?
“It is hard to describe. I went to high school games growing, but I never thought about playing for a title until I got to high school. We’ve been close over the last couple of years, but it felt different this year. The city of Bryant was supportive. It was amazing.”
Jake, you and Ren Hefley had a very good connection during the 2018 season. How did the two of you develop that chemistry?
“Part of it was my playing quarterback my sophomore year. Ren and I, we were together 24/7. I knew what he was thinking as a quarterback and I knew what he was looking for from a receiver. That really helped our chemistry.”
You were a vertical threat for the Hornets during your junior year, what were some of the other routes and ways the staff got the ball into your hands?
“I ran a lot of outs. Usually I would be on a linebacker, and I can get separation easily from a linebacker. I’d catch it for five yards, but I’d get another five to 10 after the catch.”
How did your game develop and improve during the 2018 season?
“We worked a lot during the summer and throughout spring ball. We went to a 7v7 tournament in North Carolina. Once we got into the season and going against other teams, all that hard work started showing. My first step off the ball was quicker. I had cut out a false step. My concentration improved. I was securing the catch before I started running and I was using my hands more to catch the ball instead of using my body.”
What are some of the other strengths of your game?
“Another strength is my mentality and understanding of the game. I understand plays and pick up on them quick. After the first few tries, I have it down.”
Which areas of your game will you focus on this offseason?
“I big focus is gaining weight and getting my 40 time down.”
Where all might we see you on the field during your senior year?
“My primary position will be receiver and I will return punts again, but I may run some at QB in a Wildcat package.”
Going to recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Harding, I have visited them for a game, Air Force – I talked to one of their coaches, and a coach from Dartmouth came to watch me.”
With the dead period ending on January 10, recruiting activities are about to get hot. Do you have any planned visits you may take upcoming?
“I have may visit to UCA (Central Arkansas), Arkansas State, and I might visit Air Force in the coming months.”
Jake, I appreciate your time today. Good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Rock Town Photography; No. 8 Jake Meaders in action