Interview: Edward Riley Talks Starting OG for No. 2 St. John Bosco as a Sophomore
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
A sophomore getting time at the varsity level on the gridiron is a big achievement. Starting as a sophomore takes that to another level. Starting as an undersized offensive lineman as a sophomore for the No. 2 ranked MaxPreps team in the nation shouts volumes about the play and dedication to the game of Edward Riley. While Riley mans an interior guard position for St. John Bosco, his future may be on the other side of the ball. I sat down with the 5-11, 265-pound, athlete in the trenches covering his 2018 season on the field with the Braves and his offseason workout goals.
Interview
Edward, what you did, earning a starting spot as a sophomore for the No. 2 team in the nation, is spectacular and a great achievement. When were you named a starter for the Braves?
“I was supposed to start during our first scrimmage against Mayfair. Albert (Reyes) was hurt and I was second-string at guard. I missed the Timpview (UT) game, played in the Garces Memorial and Mililani earning my starting spot after that game.”
Who did you square off against in your first start?
“Chaminade.”
What was that game like for you from the emotional to the physical?
“It went well, but I was nervous. I knew that I am now on the platform playing for Bosco. But, as the game went on, I got better. After that game I was like ‘I got this’.”
Did you have a welcome to the varsity moment be-it in a game or in practice where the realization of the moment caught you?
“Not really.”
How did your overall game improve last season?
“The biggest change for me was in our first time playing against Mater Dei. We have a powerhouse offense, I knew I had to switch it up against them. My pass blocking looked the same as my run blocking stance. In my pass-pro, I was staying patient and always moving my feet. With my run blocking, I was striking the right part. If I didn’t strike in the right place, in mid-drive I was replacing my hands.”
Which game was your best?
“I would say two of my best, no, three of my best games were San Clemente, Mater Dei, and Mililani.”
What do you feel are the things you do well as a lineman?
“My strengths are being the underdog. Everyone overlooks me because of my size. It does not hurt my feelings. It actually helps me. They are not expecting me to do what I can do.”
What are you working on with your game this offseason?
“I am working on becoming a better defender. I think more scouts will look at me on that side of the ball than on offense. I want to master defense as well as I have on offense.”
Which positions are you working at on defense?
“I am working at nose guard, defensive tackle, and end. I keep hearing I have a linebacker’s body. I’m not sure if I will work some at linebacker or not?”
How are the Giant Skillz workouts helping you develop your game?
“Coach Chris, all the coaches, they are family. They have helped me so much. I love going to Giant Skillz workouts, and not just because I am close with them. It is a good environment. Everyone is cordial with each other regardless of the school you go to. Everyone is there to work. I have great interactions with everyone and learn a lot.”
Are you going to any national camps and/or combines this offseason?
“Yes. I am going to the Nike Opening. I get my wisdom teeth taken out the day before, I am hoping to do well regardless.”
Edward, it is always great catching up with you. Thanks for your time today.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Edward Riley