Interview: Breakout Season Ahead for Talented 2021 California WR/FS Emmit Gossman
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When passion, confidence, and determination intersect with physical talent and ability on the gridiron, amazing things can happen. For Class of 2021 receiver Emmit Gossman (6-1, 190), he has it all – the will, athleticism, and chip on his shoulder filled with personal resolve for a breakout season this fall. That platform he is building off for success was being able to secure 23 passes for 312 yards with seven touchdowns scored in a run-heavy Yorba Linda High School offense in 2019 while making 20 tackles with two tackles for a loss, a pick, and two forced fumbles taking one back for a score playing safety.
When the lights turn on for the 2020 season, Gossman will be running routes in a new scheme for Brea Olinda High School. To talk about his new opportunities with the Wildcats while getting an update on his recruiting and spring workouts, Gossman stepped into the RNG Lab for a detailed Q&A.
Interview
Emmit, how did the 2019 season go for you on the field?
“I’d say it went pretty well, but there is still a lot to do. I feel that I was underused; being 300-yard guy is not me. I am more of a 1,000-yard guy. Me transferring will help that. I will do way better this year than last.”
What offensive set were you running with the Mustangs?
“More of a run-heavy offense. We were 70 percent run, 30 percent pass usually. We were a run dominate offense.”
Which routes were you running last season?
“A lot of slants, fades, digs, comebacks – a lot of short stuff that gives you a chance to turn it up and make plays.”
How did your game improve last season as a receiver?
“I feel like my game improved a lot; I made a lot of tough catches and big plays especially in the end zone for my team. I was burning DBs all season, that helped a lot improve my game. I was making that big play and changing the tone of the game last season.”
Going to the other side of the ball playing safety, which coverages were you guys executing?
“Cover 2, Cover 3, and we played a lot of man. We blitzed a lot to make the quarterback make a decision quicker. That worked out well for us last year.”
And on defense, how did that part of your game rise to the next level?
“Playing both ways, especially on defense, helped me get tougher. You had to come downhill playing safety in our defense. I split reps at safety, but still, that got me tougher as a player. I found out that safety is a really good position for me like receiver.”
Next year, where all will we see you on the field with Brea Linda?
“Right now, most likely at slot and free safety and I will probably return punts and kicks too.”
Since the season ended what all have you been working on with your game on offense?
“Working on my releases, getting off the press, and I have been catching balls. I am working a lot on my speed. Last year I was at a 4.8 but this year I am up to a 4.6. That has been a big accomplishment for me this offseason.”
And on defense, what have you been working on before the 2020 season begins?
“I’ve been working on coming over the top, my backpedal, turning my hips and being more fluid with my hips – all the basics need for a defensive back. And as always, speed. That is the key to this game.”
Turning to recruiting, which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“University of San Diego, I have been in contact with Montana, and Sacramento State.”
Are there any planned visits you may take this summer once the dead period is over?
“There are a few over the summer I may take. I do plan on visiting Montana.”
And what about college camps? Are there any camps you may compete at this summer?
“Yes, an Azusa Pacific, Redlands, and I will probably go out to Montana for one of their camps.”
The next question is my virus buster. What have you been doing for fun this spring with all our schedules turned around?
“I have put more effort into my homework. With all this extra time, I have been putting more effort into my school work. That is what is keeping me sane during this period.”
What is your cumulative GPA?
“3.3.”
Have you taken the ACT and/or SAT? If so, what did you score?
“On the SAT I scored an 1130.”
For the college coaches reading this who may not know of you, what message would you like to send to them?
“Let the college coaches know that I have been working hard and that I will be that guy at the next level to whichever school I go to.”
Emmit, it was great covering ground with you today. Wishing you success with your workouts this spring.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Gossman family; No. 21 Emmit Gossman in action (2019)