Interview: 2023 Arkansas All-State QB Eli Wisdom Talks UCF Offer from Gus Malzahn
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
For college coaches seeking that dynamic dual-threat quarterback that can light up the scoreboard in a hurry, bring the fans to their feet, and post wins on the board – the state of Arkansas has you covered. One of the rising talents in the Natural State sure to apply his trade at the collegiate level in style is Class of 2023 quarterback Eli Wisdom.
As Shiloh Christian trampled the competition on their way to a 4A state championship, the offense was deadlier than ever against the best of the best in the playoffs producing an average of 44.2 points per game in their five-game run to glory. Through the team’s 14-1 run, Wisdom (6-0, 175) sliced and diced for 2,125 yards in the air with 23 touchdowns tossed and covered 1,464 yards on the ground with 24 scores posted on the board. The skills displayed earned Wisdom about every postseason honor possible including Player of the Year, All-State and All-Conference, and State Championship Game MVP.
Covering ground on his MVP performances with a look to his offseason goals, Wisdom stopped by the RNG Lab for a first-look confab.
Interview
Eli, because of your true dual-threat abilities, how does it feel to know you gave grown men on 14 different teams nightmares during the 2020 season trying to figure out a way to stop you?
(Laughs) It was awesome. I did not expect what happened to happen. I worked really hard in the offseason. We had an awesome year and it is a great feeling knowing I gave all those defensive coordinators nightmares every time I stepped on the field.
What is the offensive philosophy of the Saints?
This year it changed. We are a Spread offense, but with my ability to run we did more read plays and options to run the ball for the quarterback. We try to create explosive plays and move the ball downfield as fast as we can.
How did your game improve as a passer throughout your sophomore season?
My reads improved and how I read defenders. At the beginning of the year, it was brand new to me. The last couple of years I was playing receiver primarily. Every now and again they played me at quarterback in the Wildcat. My footwork, accuracy, and arm strength all improved this season.
Wait. Let me clarify something. Not only was this your first season starting at QB at the varsity level but first season period?
Yes, sir.
Wow. Very impressive.
Thank you, sir.
The wheels are elite. What is the best-timed run you’ve put down?
I do not have a timed run yet. I am planning to do a 40-yard dash soon. My goal is a 4.4 or a 4.5.
When the season ended, what did you feel were the overall strengths to your game?
I feel like I commanded the offense well with my legs, how I move and run, and with my throwing abilities. I was reading defenses quickly seeing who is open or not and making a quick decision.
In which game did you turn in your best performance of the season?
I’d say the state championship game. We won it, and it was the state championship game. I was 17 of 21 passing for 230-plus yards and I had nine carries for over 100 yards with three total touchdowns.
That qualifies in my book. Which areas of your technique and fundamentals are you focused on this offseason to take to that next level?
My footwork, getting my timing down with my receivers, and arm strength; I can always improve on that. My overall mechanics is my focus. I am trying to perfect those.
Are you competing in any other sports for the Saints?
Yes, sir, basketball and track.
Which events in track are you running this year?
The 100 and 4×1.
Let’s move into recruiting. Which programs are showing interest?
I have Twitter follows from Memphis, Arkansas, Miami, Oklahoma State, Liberty, and Rice.
Have you received any offers yet?
Yes, last night (Thursday) Gus Malzahn from UCF offered me.
Wow. Very cool. What was that moment like for you getting a big offer from such a high-profile coach?
It was unreal, and unexpected. I hadn’t been talking to them. I got a call from my coach, he told me Coach Malzahn was on the phone. It was unreal and unbelievable.
What did Coach Malzahn say to you? How did he offer you?
He asked me some questions, asked about my dream and goals and if I wanted to play college football. I said, yes, sir, it is. He said, “I have my QB coach with me, we both think you can take us to a national championship. We’d like to offer you.
Eli, what a great story, and a perfect way to wrap up our interview. I appreciate your time today. Wishing you great success this offseason with your workouts and track season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Wisdom family; Eli Wisdom