Interview: 2022 Oklahoma QB Jesus Morey Updates Offseason Workouts
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Character and internal fortitude on the gridiron does not come from winning and when things come easy, but from going through adversity. One’s attitude and determination shines through when all seems to be crumbling and the odds are against success. After the 2020 season Jesus Morey went through at Douglas High School, no one can ever take away one of the most overlooked values in a quarterback – leadership. The Trojans were besieged with injuries and Covid related problems leading to an 0-7 season, yet Morey stepped up to keep the fabric of the team together to make it across the finish line.
When the 2021 season kicks off in Oklahoma City this fall, the 6-1, 175-pound, senior quarterback will be executing a Spread attack with Oklahoma Christian. Fresh off his camp appearance at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock (AR), Morey updates us on how he is preparing for this new challenge.
*Click the link for the Oct. 2020 RNG interview with Jesus Morey
Interview
Jesus, from our previous conversation, I know the 2020 season was a big season for you in more ways than one. With all the adversity the Trojans faced last fall, how did your skills as a leader shine through?
It showed me how to carry a load that I was not used to and wasn’t prepared for. My reaction was great. We were looking to go undefeated but, unfortunately, we had a lot of adversity. It gave me skills, like leading by example. I was focused on the field and with my academics. Off the field I was taking people to study hall and being more disciplined leading by example. I was trying even harder at the end of the season than the beginning to help us try to win games. We were not taking the season for granted, especially with games being cancelled because of Covid restrictions.
After the season you made a move to Oklahoma Christian, when did you transfer?
On Jan. 4.
What new offense will you be running fall of 2021?
We are planning to run a Spread offense.
What is the philosophy or the mentality of your new team?
Our main goal is to become better leaders and followers of Christ. The goal is to go to state by building chemistry that they have not had since going to the playoffs last in 2013. We want to bring a tradition of winning to Oklahoma Christian and have the players enjoying the game and loving what they are doing.
Picking up on your strengths as a passing QB, what have you been working on with the fundamentals to your base this spring?
In the weight room, I am trying to gain weight. I’m working on pocket presence and movement trying to get the real game reps, not just going through the motions. The drills are off a blitz or as if an offensive lineman messed up. I am doing ladder drills, escape drills, and working on being balanced once you escape with accurate throws.
What have you been doing with your upper body tying to your base?
Arm angles, release timing, and shoulder workouts helping bring more velocity with my ball.
How have you expanded your understanding of the game?
A lot of white board work, that is the best way for me to understand football along with film. Being at a new school, doing 11-personnel, 10- and 21-personnel, I am learning how the routes will work against different coverages in our offense.
I just saw you at the VSG/RNG camp in Little Rock. How did the camp go for you performance wise?
It went very well. It gave me a measurement of my skills. I have showed my improvement this offseason.
Competing against quarterbacks from Arkansas and Louisiana, what were your takeaways from the camp?
I feel like there is a lot of improvement needed, but I am improving day by day. It made me a better competitor and made me more aggressive. I want to be the best. After being at that camp, I see more players wanting that too. I have to go harder and be more focused to achieve my goals.
You work with QB coach Tom George regularly, but was there anything you picked up from the camp that will help you with your skills in the future?
Yes, sir. Speed, agility, character, and being more open to one another. I also learned about taking criticism and working together as a team. We are all going for the same goal and dream.
Are there any upcoming camps on your schedule?
Absolutely, I am going to QB Impact in Dallas in July and the Wayne and Dibble Camp in Oklahoma.
Jesus, it was great getting to see you in action at the camp and learn more about your offseason workouts as you prepare for the 2021 season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Morey family; Jesus Morey