Interview: 4-Star 2020 Mississippi Talent Lideatrick Griffin is a Complete Receiver
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When the 2017 high school football season had ended, Class of 2020 receiver/athlete Lideatrick Griffin had firmly put himself among the best players in the state of Mississippi and in the nation. He is the type of player the opposition hates to play against but respects because he does it all and he does it all really well.
Griffin is unlike most talented receivers that get a lot of fanfare, because he is better. The theme of “if you don’t block, you don’t get the rock” appears to be as important to him as flying past a defensive back for a score. At 5-10, 170-pounds, corners, safeties, and linebackers better play with their head on a swivel on running plays because Griffin blocks to lay out the opposition. When his number was called to move the chains during his sophomore campaign, he did not disappoint. Over the course of 14 games, Griffin hauled in 47 passes for 906 yards with 12 trips into the end zone. He also rushed the rock 36 times for another 328 yards with a score. If his 19 yard per reception average did not impress, he also contributed on defense for Philadelphia High School coming up with 12 tackles, two tackles for a loss, and two picks.
Word is out on Griffin leading to double- and triple-teams this season, but that has not stopped him from finding a way to impact games. Stats posted through five games played this season, Griffin has pulled in 26 passes for 410 yards, has seven tackles on defense, and has taken back three kicks for 138 yards with an 85-yarder on the resume.
No surprise to see top regional programs pounce on the do-everything slot receiver/scat-back. To date, Griffin has five offers coming from Mississippi State, Auburn, Memphis, Southern Miss, and Tennessee with a growing list of programs showing interest. As the stat sheet fills up and word spreads of his talents, more and more teams are sure to start dropping offers, especially with his documented 4.43 speed in the 40-yard dash.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the four-star receiver to learn more about his game and his recruiting process.
Interview
Lideatrick, the Tornadoes stumbled in Week 2 and 3 but have rebounded reeling off three consecutive wins. What is working for you guys during the three-game win streak?
“We came together as a team. We knew we had to step up to start winning.”
How has your junior season started off on offense?
“It is going good so far. I am seeing a lot of double- and triple-teams. It is hard, but I will fight through it.”
How has your game as a receiver improved this year over a year ago?
“I am running routes a lot better this year. Last year, I was not running routes nearly as well. Mississippi Grind taught me a lot.”
You got some significant carries last year; will we see you tote the ball more in the second half of the season?
“Yes, sir. I may be able to tote it on Thursday.”
You had a nice 85-yard kick return for a score, how did that play open up for you and what was going through your mind once you knew you were going to score?
“When I caught it, I told my teammates to go to the right, but the hole closed over there. Then I saw an opening in middle, I put my foot down and I was gone.”
If all your work on offense and special teams was not enough, you also play some defense. Where all are you lining up on defense this year?
“Wherever they put me. Against Quitman I played safety, corner, and outside linebacker. I am filling in where we need help.”
Where are you seeing the biggest improvements overall with the team on defense?
“It is going good. We are wrapping up, being more disciplined this year, and communicating better with one another.”
You guys get Calhoun City on Thursday, what kind of game can the fans expect in that one?
“I am hearing it will be a big crowd. I am focused on the win. I think it will be a close game, like 24-21; somewhere in that range.”
With recruiting, you have five offers, but which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered yet?
“Alabama, Kentucky, Tulane, and Arkansas.”
Have you taken any unofficial visits over the summer months or so far this season?
“Over the summer, I went to Mississippi State and Alabama.”
Do you have any planned visits upcoming?
“Yes, sir. This weekend I am going to MSU for the Florida game.”
That’ll be a great one. What has you excited about the visit?
“I am hearing it will be a big crowd. I am looking forward to talking to the players and coaches.”
Lideatrick, thanks for your time today and good luck with Calhoun City and on the visit to Starkville.
“Thank you.”
Photo credits: Philadelphia High School; No. 5 Lideatrick Griffin in action