Interview: 21-Offer 3-Star 2022 California DE Jaxson Moi has Two Official Visits Set
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Offenses can double team him, chip him, and even hold him but once the pigskin is snapped there is no holding back Class of 2022 strongside defensive end Jaxson Moi. The Cathedral Catholic talent spends all of his time in the opposition’s backfield turning running plays inside while chasing down ball carriers going the other way. On passing downs, he puts relentless pressure on opposing California quarterbacks either getting the sack or forcing a rushed pass that typically misses the designated target. Division-I programs across the country see the 6-3, 245-pound, defender as a collegiate difference maker with 21 scholarships extended.
Three games into the Dons’ 2020 season, Moi brings us up to speed on the in-game action and growth of his game with insight on his recruiting and possible official visits this summer.
Interview
Jaxson, the film shows it… you are a fighter on the field with a never-quit motor no matter if they are double teaming you or holding you. What lights the fire for you come game time?
(Laughs) I am a passionate guy; I take that same energy onto the field. Our defensive coordinator has instilled in us to get in the ball with malicious intent. Not to hurt them, but make them wish they had not run the ball within the rules of the game.
The coaches at Cathedral Catholic have been playing you at end, but change up the fronts. Looks like in one game or on one play you could be playing a three shading to a two-tech and on the next lining up as a four or a five-tech. What all are you doing in the Dons’ scheme?
We run a 3-4 defense. We have two ends and two outside linebackers. Our strongside outside linebacker will play the end position; a true end going to three-tech and the other plays a five-tech. Against certain teams it varies, from a 2, 3, or 4-tech. They use me all over the line.
Entering into the 2020 season this spring, what all did you work on with your technique?
Technique wise, I worked with Giant Skillz. I worked on block recognition and sealing down. Last season I did not strike and use my hands the best; I would run into them and forearm them. Thanks to working with Giant Skillz and my cousin Jordan Tyler, I have gotten better at that.
What were you doing in the weight room to add more power and strength?
Last year, going into sophomore year, I broke my hand. After that I got kind of big. I was at 270 by the end of my sophomore year. I did not like where I was at and started working with trainers in Carlsbad. I was also doing speed training working with my cousin Tyler and my Uncle Roy. I was doing backyard lifting and was eating better. I got to 260 before the season. I could see a big change and I felt stronger. I was lean and fast, and still am. There was a big change for me.
Three games into the 2020 season, where are you showing the biggest improvements in your game?
With my get off, like I mentioned, my block recognition, I am using my hands better, striking and engaging with the offensive linemen. I am not letting them get a good shot on my linebackers, I am chipping them. I have always had the pursuit to the ball.
You got to spread out a little bit over the weekend showcasing the skills at the Under Armour All-American Camp in Phoenix. How did the camp go for you, especially during the one-on-ones?
That camp went really well for me. It was a great experience. I won 3 of 4 reps. The one I lost, I got good pressure but I want to get to the quarterback. On the other three reps, I dominated. I finished each rep. Throughout the camp I showed good hustle.
Earning the DL Big Man Challenge MVP at that camp, what was that moment like for you?
It wasn’t surprising, but it was surreal. After all the hard work put in, it was cool to see. Earning that is what I wanted. It was great to have it happen earning defensive linemen MVP.
Are you going to any other camps this spring or during the summer?
I am not sure about college camps, but maybe the Polynesian Bowl Combine. I want to be a part of the Polynesian Bowl Game. It would be a great honor to be a part of that bowl game as I am Polynesian.
Back to the present. Who do the Dons get next?
We get Lincoln. They are a good team.
What are you expecting in that epic showdown?
A dogfight. It will be a physical game with a lot of emotions from players on both teams because we all know each other. I am excited for my team going against Lincoln this season. We lost to them last year, it is a great opportunity to avenge last year’s loss.
Last part of the interview. Which programs are showing interest?
Kansas State is showing interest. I have been talking to Coach (Mike) Tuiasosopo (DT). Nebraska has been showing interest as well. I have been talking to Coach (Tony) Tuioti (DT).
Nice. How many offers do you have?
I have 21 offers.
Which programs were the last couple to offer you?
The last three were Michigan, Stanford, and USC.
Moi’s Offer Sheet: Arizona, Army, Boise State, Cal, Columbia, Dartmouth, Fresno State, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan, Oregon, Oregon State, Pennsylvania, Princeton, San Diego State, Stanford, UCLA, UNLV, USC, Washington State, and Yale
Very cool. Visits are supposed to start up again in June. When that happens, are there any programs you’d like to go visit?
Yes. I have set up two officials. The first is to Cal, the first week of June, and during the second week I am going to Oregon.
Jaxson, it was great getting time in with you today. Wishing you and the Dons success in the big rivalry game this week.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Moi family; Jaxson Moi