Interview: 2022 California QB Daniel Duran Clicking in Sierra Canyon Offense
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
In local Southern California circles, those tied to the high school football game have known of Daniel Duran since the 2018 season. A camp, a training session, or 7v7 tournaments with Formula 4 Speed – you name it, Duran is there. The hard work has finally connected with opportunity for the Class of 2022 quarterback getting his first varsity starts with Sierra Canyon during the 2020 season this spring, and looking like a seasoned veteran doing so.
The 5-11, 190-pound, field general has produced 580 yards with seven touchdowns in the Trailblazers three games played. The insight to the stat line, coming off the 7v7 season with Formula 4 Speed, Duran transferred to Sierra Canyon two weeks before the season began. The season opener was against defending 2019 national champs St. John Bosco, a 42-21 loss, but has helped post 56 and 42 points respectively in big wins against St. Bernard and Oaks Christian.
Showing that all the hard work over the years and throughout the extended California offseason account for something, Duran has earned his first scholarship offer coming from Lehigh University.
In a return to the RNG Clubhouse, Duran covers ground on his new offense with the Trailblazers and growing skills against top area competition.
Interview
Daniel, the Trailblazers started out playing one of the toughest teams in the nation colliding against St. John Bosco. As a competitor, even coming off that long break, that had to be an exciting opportunity for you and one that provided a lot of learning situations. Taking on all those four- and three-star players, what were some of the things you learned in that game?
To be honest, the biggest thing was timing and knowing my receivers. Being able to click with my guys in my first varsity start after transferring two weeks before that game, if we had a second shot at them it would go better than that first time.
You are coming off a game where you opened up the proverbial can of whip ass tossing for three touchdowns while covering 298 yards against Oaks Christian. Firing on all those cylinders, what was working for you?
That was more me clicking with my head coach in the offense. Being able to get a grasp of the offense and trusting my offensive linemen and receivers helped. We had a strong run game and great protection.
What scheme are you executing with the Trailblazers this season?
A Spread offense mainly, but it depends on the game. We are either run or pass heavy, usually 60-40 either way.
How are you preparing for each game during the week working hand-in-hand with head coach Jon Ellinghouse?
We watch film at lunch. When I get the chance, I will call him up and we will watch film together. We cover the playbook in our meetings going over what we like and don’t like and their defense.
What are some of the coverages you are seeing when you drop back?
I’m seeing man, Cover 3, some Cover 2 but not much Cover 4.
Taking on all these next level guys, where are you already showing improvement in your skillset from Game 1 to Game 3?
Being able to be on time with my routes, hitting them on the break, making plays, reading the field, and my ball placement.
There’s another big challenge coming up on Saturday going against Garces Memorial. What kind of game are you expecting from the Rams?
We expect them to be strong. It will be a good fight and a good competitive game.
Let’s get into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
UC-Davis, Eastern Washington, and Columbia.
Which program has offered?
Lehigh University.
That is fantastic. Congratulations.
Thank you.
Getting that first offer, what was the moment like for you?
It was a great feeling. It was a once in a lifetime situation. That feeling knowing you have made it in a sense and knowing I have done something more for my city was great.
Are you taking any visits this summer when the dead period lifts?
Yes. I am looking forward to seeing UC-Davis, I plan on visiting Cal-Poly, and the local schools.
Daniel, congratulations on the hot start with Sierra Canyon to the 2020 season. Wishing you and the Trailblazers continued success this spring.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Jose Montanez/Duran family; Daniel Duran