Interview: 4-Star 2020 California WR Logan Loya Updates Season and Recruiting

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

After watching Logan Loya on the gridiron over the past three seasons, there are few that can do what he does consistently game after game. If refs wanted to call a game tight, the Lancers could just target Loya play after play and watch the defensive holding penalties move the ball down the field. His get off and quickness in and out of his breaks have proven to be a mismatch even for the best of Trinity League corners helping the Class of 2020 talent earn a four-star ranking with a whole lot of his No. 17 jersey being clutched in and out of his breaks, but that has not stopped him from being a top play-maker.

Loya officially exploded onto the recruiting scene during his sophomore season coming up with 68 receptions for 825 yards with 12 touchdowns scored. The 6-0, 185-pound, speedster is back at it in 2018 helping his Orange Lutheran squad to a 2-1 start with a No. 20 national ranking (MaxPreps). The Lancers have squared off against the likes of San Juan Hills, No. 8 nationally ranked Centennial (Corona), and Vista Murrieta. Along the way, Loya has hauled in 16 passes for 214 yards with three touchdowns.

The production on the field has not been lost on college coaches. To date, Loya has 10 offers coming in from Iowa State, Colorado, Oregon, San Jose State, Oregon State, Nebraska, Vanderbilt, and Arizona State with interest spanning throughout the Pac-12 and Big Ten conferences.

In a Recruiting News Guru catch-up interview, I sat down with Loya covering the early part of his season with a look ahead to the Lancers Friday night game against Heritage while receiving a quick recruiting update.

*Click link for July 10, 2018, RNG video interview with Logan Loya

Interview

Logan, how has the 2018 season started out for you personally?

“It has started off well. Our first game (San Juan Hills) was a warmup game, we did not play as well as we had hoped (won 27-7). I had one touchdown in that game, but that game helped us get in game rhythm. We started off fast against Centennial. We played a great first half on offense and on defense, then we let it get away from us (lost 45-28). They made changes, as great teams do, and when we tried to change it up we had some tough times. They had a really good defensive line and we lost three starters on the line before the game. Our linemen did well against one of the best defensive lines in California.

“In our third game against Vista Murrieta (won 42-17), we came out strong. We were pissed off about losing. We wanted to show we are not backing down. We wanted to show what we can do.”

You’ve always had success getting open, making the catch, and making big plays, how has your overall game improved from last season?

“I would say it has improved a lot. I’ve been playing outside, showing college coaches that I can play inside and outside at the next level. My route running and understanding of the game has been increasing week by week. My speed is getting better week by week as well. I am also trying to play both ways a little bit this year.”

I saw that. We will circle back around to that. How are defenses scheming against you?

“Defenses were try to play man against us but now everyone is playing zone against us. Our whole offense is just stacked. They have no choice.”

You guys get a tough game against Heritage (2-1) on Friday, what kind of game are you expecting from the Patriots’ defense?

“We are expecting a zone defense.”

As you mentioned, you are playing some on defense this year as well, how is that going?

“Good. I am loving it on defense. I love playing both sides of the ball.”

What are you doing well on defense?

“I really haven’t done much. The ball has not come my way. When the ball is in the air, I am competitive and I go after it. I have been sad and lonely in the back waiting for the ball (laughs).”

Where all are you lining up in the secondary?

“At free and strong safety.”

Turning to recruiting, which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered yet?

“I have been talking a little with USC, Washington, Cal, and Michigan.”

How many offers do you have now?

“I have 10.”

Which schools were the last two to offer you?

“Utah and Oregon.”

Have you taken any visits this fall or back over the summer months?

“I went to USC, Oregon, and Oregon State this summer.”

Do you have any visits planned upcoming?

“No. I am waiting until after the season before I take any unofficial visits.”

Last question. What are your goals for the 2018 season?

“My goals are to win a CIF and state championship. I want us to play as one unit – as a team. I would love high numbers, but I just want to do what I can to help the team win. Whatever it takes to win it all.”

Logan, always great catching up with you. I appreciate your time today and good luck on Friday against Heritage.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; No. 17 Logan Loya vs. Centennial