Interview: 2020 California QB Enrique Garza Talks Breakout Season with Maranatha

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Looking at Enrique Garza’s film, no one would know that he was a first-year varsity starter during the 2018 season. The 6-2, 165-pound, gunslinger took on Olympic League (CA) competition throwing for 2,011 yards with 21 touchdowns while leading his Maranatha High School squad to a 6-5 record. Another proving time is here for Garza and his Class of 2020 peer group, camp and combine season along with the spring evaluation period. To learn more about Garza’s breakout year and offseason workouts, I sat down for a one-on-one with the rising Pasadena standout.

Interview

Enrique, going into the 2018 season what were some of the goals you set for yourself?

“I wanted to be a team player first. I wanted certain stat numbers like 2,000 yards passing and 20 TDs, I completed it but it was more important to me for us to go to the playoffs and win league. We came in second place in league but we did make the playoffs. I wanted team success before my individual. I wanted first team League and MVP of the league, but I think everyone has that as a goal.”

Which game was your best during your junior year and why do you consider that game to be your best?

“When we played Azusa High School, that was my best game. We came back from a loss to Pasadena (14-12). The way I responded to that loss was how I wanted. I threw for 300 yards with one touchdown. Some of my most impressive throws of the year were in that game. I think that was my most impressive game. I had some over the shoulder throws and my play-action was on. My play-action passes showcased my skillset.”

How did your game improve throughout the season?

“The first game of the year was my first time starting at the varsity level. I had a lot to learn. Dealing with pressure from the defensive line, creating and finding plays, being familiar with the playbook, and making in-game decisions on time were some of the ways I improved throughout the season. I learned what adjustments you need to make and how important it is communicating with your offensive coordinator to tell him what you are seeing out there. Those are some of the most valuable things to take away from the season. With the year under my belt, those are the biggest takeaways to set up my senior season.”

What are the strengths of your game?

“I am accurate. I put the ball where it needs to be. I am a team leader – I have a team-first mentality. I am poised out there. I do not let pressure get to me or allow the outside noise in. I create plays inside the pocket. My football IQ is a strength as well.”

What about from a technical standpoint, what are some of your strengths in that regard?

“My release. I like my release. I let go of the ball high above the shoulder, I do not dip my shoulder. I am sound technically. My footwork is never a problem – I take pride in that. For certain throws you have to do certain things, and I can do all of that. I feel I am technically sound.

What will you work on this offseason?

“A lot this offseason will be working with three different coaches. I will work with Coach Harvey, he’s the track coach. We will work on speed and explosiveness and work to improve my 40 time. Coach Schofield is my offensive coordinator. I will work with him on overall strength and upper body strength. I will go to the board for install throughout the offseason and work on recognizing defenses with him to improve my football IQ.

“My QB coach is Danny Hernandez. With him I will work on all game time situations. We prepare for the hardest situations. Your technique and mechanics have to change based on the situation. Danny is like a good friend of mine. I have a good time working with him. I learn a lot of different techniques and game time situations from him. He has helped improve my game so much. I use more of my body to get the most strength out of my body for my throws from working with him.”

Enrique, I appreciate your time today and wish you success with your offseason workouts.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Maranatha HS; No. 15 Enrique Garza