Interview: 3-Star 2021 Arizona DE/OLB Brandon Buckner has Commitment Date Set
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The tremendous run for Chandler High School through 6A Arizona competition during the 2019 season produced many amazing individual efforts, and one of them was by defensive end Brandon Buckner (6-2, 230). As the Wolves steamrolled to a 13-0 finish, their three-star Class of 2021 defender earned first team All-State honors after a 53-tackle, 24-tackle for a loss, 16-sack, 10-QB hurry season with a pick, a fumble recovery, and three forced fumbles added on the stat sheet. The regional leader in sacks has become a recruiting favorite among Pac-12 and Mountain West Conference programs with 14 offers in his possession. The recruiting race is now on for Buckner with a commitment date set for his birthday on Sept. 13.
In a return to the RNG Lab, Bucker catches us up on the trophy hoisting season, his offseason workouts and provides a rundown on his recruiting.
Interview
Brandon, the Wolves were a dominating force again last season taking home the 6A state trophy. The defense was amazing pitching five shutouts. What was working for you guys on that side of the ball to control games the way that you did?
“We focused on going into each game being ourselves and imposing our will. We were playing as a team and doing our assignments. We were playing fast, physical, and having fun.”
The game of the year for you guys had to be the championship game against Saguaro going down to a 42-35 finish. What was that game like for you given the back-and-forth dramatic nature of it all?
“That game was good. There was a lot of good talent on both sides. That game was hyped with great competition. That proved Arizona is a baller state. Both teams can compete with anyone in the country. There were a lot of connections on both sides, and we got after it. It put Arizona football on the map. We have a lot of good talent over here.”
During the playoffs, taking on some of the best in the state, how did you elevate your game?
“I had to bring it in every round. In the first round, we had Jack Miller of Chaparral, he’s at Ohio State, then Salpointe with Bijan Robinson, at Texas, and Lathan Ransom, at Ohio State. All three were effective players. Makes you realize how big the stage is. It is win or go home. Salpointe was my favorite game going against a Texas and an Ohio State commit; it was a blast.”
When the 2020 season kicks off, will you be doing anything differently on defense or taking on any roles on the other side of the ball?
“Yes. In 2020, you will be seeing me move around the field more. I will be dropping back coming from middle or outside linebacker and standing up covering tight ends and running back. I am working on all aspects of my game. I want to show I am more than a pass rusher. I want to show off my capabilities that I am player who gets the job done.”
Since the season ended, what have you been working on with your overall game?
“I have been working on my speed, that is a big thing. I am continuing to keep my body in shape getting into the best shape possible. I want to go out with a bang. I want to be an even more effective player; I want to be even better than last year. I am keeping my head straight and focusing on myself this offseason.”
Getting your body in shape via the weight room, have you maxed out lately?
“At my school we do not power clean, but I got 430 on bench and my squat it is 500.”
Nice. Into recruiting we go. How many offers have been dropped?
“Fourteen.”
Buckner’s Offer Sheet: Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, Fresno State, Iowa State, Maryland, Michigan State, Middle Tennessee State Northern Arizona, Oregon, Oregon State, San Diego State, UNLV, and Washington State
Are there any schools showing interest but have not offered yet?
“USC, they’ve been sending me stuff, and so has Notre Dame. Those two schools are showing the most interest.”
Looking ahead, are there any visits you may take official or unofficial?
“I was supposed to check out Oregon State and Colorado on spring break, but that was cancelled. I will definitely visit Oregon State, Colorado, Michigan State, and Washington State; all unofficial visits.”
Do you have a commitment date in mind?
“On my birthday, Sept. 13.”
That’ll be fun. Brandon, I appreciate your time today and wish you success with your spring workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Buckner family; Brandon Buckner at Oregon and USC