Interview: 3-Star 2022 California DE Miles Bailey Updates Offseason Workouts
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The star power for Benicia High School defensive end Miles Bailey took off during the 2019. The hard to miss 6-4, 240-pound, defender was the target of opposing Division III California offensive blocking schemes doing their best to limit the three-star prospect’s impact on games. Whether double teaming him or running the other way, Bailey still took down 30 ball carriers with seven tackles for a loss, four sacks, a couple of QB hurries, and swatted away four hopeful passes. Bailey’s role on the Panthers’ roster expanded upon getting after that ball, and that was trying to help score it. He lined up as a glorified tight end on the outside, but did secure four passes for 32 yards.
As the 2020 season in California nears, college football scouts across the country are ready to see Bailey in action. With two offers dropped, more offers are sure to come.
Interview
Miles, you were getting after it last season off the edge for Benicia. When the season had ended, what did you feel were the strengths to your overall game?
I feel like that coming off the edge is my thing. I am physical and balanced defensive end. I feel that I can get better at a lot of things, but I am an all-around player on both offense and defense.
What set were you guys running on defense?
We ran a 4-3.
How were offenses scheming against you and trying to block you in 2019?
I was getting double-teams at the start of the year. Once teams stopped double teaming, I was freed up.
You got some snaps on offense last season hauling in four passes for 32 yards. What roles were you taking on as a sophomore in the Panthers’ offense a year ago?
I took on a big role in our offense. I did not have as many receptions but I was helping get my teammates open, blocking for my running backs and my other receivers.
Where did they have you lined up?
At receiver most of the time. We did not have a tight end set last year but we will this year.
When you went into the offseason, what did you focus on with the small details to your game as a defensive end?
I focused on my get-off, violent hands, reading how guards and tackles play and learning their techniques.
Have you been working on any new moves?
Yes, I have been working on a couple of new ones, the chop, chop-rip, a couple of spin moves, and a lot more.
How have you pushed your physical abilities forward this offseason? What lifts and exercises are you doing?
I am lifting four to five days a week, three at a facility and two days at a local gym. And I go into my garage to lift weights.
Have you been able to max out this offseason?
I haven’t in a while. The last time I maxed out, my bench max was around 250 to 255, my squat was around 395, and my deadlift was around 350.
Where all will you line up on the field in 2020?
You’ll see me at defensive end and some at tight end, but my main focus is at defensive end.
Are there any changes to your role on defense this season?
It is my preference to stand up or go out of a three-point. I might drop back into coverage every once in a while.
Are you guys running the same defense in 2020?
Yes, I think we are sticking with the 4-3.
Let’s cover some ground on recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
Cal, Utah, Nevada, Colorado State, Colorado, and Oregon State a little bit.
How many offers do you have?
Two; Fresno State and San Jose State.
When visits on campus are allowed again in 2021, are there any schools you’d like to visit?
I’d like to go on a couple. I am thinking about visiting Fresno, San Jose State, UNLV, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, Cal, and maybe USC.
Do you play any other varsity sports?
I did play basketball last year, but I am sticking to football this year.
With about two months until the 2020 season starts, what are your goals over the winter months to be prepared in Week 1?
Strength is a component and endurance – lasting longer on the field. There are a lot of things I will continue to work on before the season.
Miles, I appreciate your time today and wish you success as you continue to prepare for your junior season.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Bailey family; Miles Bailey