Interview: Big Breakout Season Ahead for 2023 Texas QB JT Fayard
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
During the 2020 Texas high school football season, Foster produced an 8-3 season with senior quarterback Phillip Amy tossing for 2,566 yards with 23 touchdowns against just four interceptions. When the 2021 season rolls around this fall, Falcons’ fans can expect the same, if not more, from his predecessor JT Fayard. Because of transfer rules, the Class of 2023 talent was limited to JV games only last season, but absolutely picked apart his peer group. The 6-4, 190-pound, standout looked like a man among boys completing 67 percent of his passes covering 925 yards with 13 touchdowns.
Before that talent goes on display against opposing 5A Texas squads, his 7v7 team is touring the country and Fayard plans on spinning it at select college camps this summer. For an overview on his warmup season and offseason plans, Fayard stopped by the RNG Lab for a quick one-on-one.
Interview
JT, during the 2020 season you were running a Spread; how does that scheme fit your skills as a quarterback?
Running the Spread fits me because I am more of a passing quarterback. I like being a pocket passer. We don’t run much, we mostly pass – that is all me right there. Throwing the ball, that is how I play. In the Spread, I like to isolate and beat people with my arm. The Spread is the perfect offseason for me. Since I started playing football when I was four, I knew how to read defenses and pick them apart.
In the six games played, which areas of your game saw the most improvement this season?
My first and my last. My first game, because I transferred I was playing JV, that was the big difference that showed me where I am at. In my last game against 5A District-I players, they are the best of the best. That’s when I could see how much better I am verses those guys that will be on varsity going against me next season.
This offseason, what have you been working on with your fundamentals?
My first thing was my speed. I ran a 4.8 two days ago at school. I am working on my speed and agility, on my touch passes, my deep ball, and all the fundamentals. I am working every day.
What have you been doing to expand your understanding of the game this offseason?
I went to an Elite 11 Regional last year. When I was there, they teach the QB-IQ system. I have been studying that every day; after school and when I wake up. QB-IQ teaches me how to read defenses and how to handle myself. Russell Wilson uses a mental strength coach, Trevor Moawad; I have been listing to his books. This offseason I am preparing myself mentally, physically, and spiritually.
When the 2021 season gets going, are you guys running the same offense?
Yes, sir. We are running the same Spread offense. Everything is the same for the 2021 season.
Have you been playing 7v7 this winter?
Yes, sir. I have been playing with EPS Blaze (Elite Prospect Scouting). We are an Adidas national team. We go everywhere because we are sponsored.
How have the tournaments been going?
It is going great so far. Last year, most of my guys were seniors. This offseason we are meshing together. We have not started off as good as we wanted but we are good. In New Orleans, we went to the championship game. In Atlanta, we are planning on winning the whole thing.
Playing against other top talents in 7v7, how is that stretching you making you a better quarterback?
Overall, it is a blessing to play against everyone. I like to focus on myself, not on the skills of those I am playing against. It is pushing me and helping me read defenses better.
This spring or summer, are there any camps you may go compete at?
Yes. I am planning on going to Elite 11 Regional in Houston. For college camps, I am planning on going to an LSU camp, Penn State, Texas, Alabama, and Texas A&M.
As you prepare for the upcoming camp circuit, which programs are showing interest?
Baylor, Penn State, Texas, LSU, Maryland, and A&M.
When the dead period lifts, are there any programs you may go visit aside from the camps mentioned?
Yes, sir. I have some of this planned out. On the first day I can, I am going to LSU. After that I am going to A&M. Those are the for sure two visits I will take.
JT, thanks for your time today. Wishing you and your 7v7 team success with the upcoming tournaments.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Fayard family; JT Fayard