Interview: The Upside for 2023 Louisiana WR Harvey Broussard is Elite
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After what Harvey Broussard did on the field in 2020 as a sophomore, it is scary for opposing Louisiana defenses to conceptualize just how dominating he will become. The 6-4, 180-pound, talent is a standout on the hardwood, and took those athletic gifts to the gridiron as a sophomore with a focused intent. What we saw on the St. Martinville High School field this fall is only the beginning, and college programs are catching on in a hurry. The upside to Broussard’s game and how it projects at the collegiate level has already brought five offers to the party.
In an RNG first-look interview, Broussard took a break after basketball season and in between track meets and 7v7 tournaments for a detailed conversation.
Interview
Harvey, you made it look easy but you had to work for your yards and touchdowns last season. Besides all the athleticism you displayed, what was working for you allowing for the dynamic season?
I was using my height, my long arms, I was high pointing and going to get it. My quarterback was throwing deep routes which made it look even better for me going and getting it. That helped me getting extra yards.
In which game did you turn in your best personal performance?
I’d say first round of the playoffs (Kaplan), that is when I got serious. I was a basketball player with hoop dreams growing up. As I started playing football more, I feel in love with it.
In that opening round of the playoffs, what did you do well to pick that as your best game?
It was a mismatch. I all the little things I could do to help my team out. We were down, but I was doing the little plays that made a difference. Those plays I made helped us go to Round 2.
Is there a trait to your game as a receiver that may get overshadowed by your height, speed, and big plays?
When I breakdown for the ball and the way I create space, that plays a big role for me.
Are you going to play defense next season?
Oh yeah. I should do very well playing free safety next season.
Have you started preparing for that role?
Yes, sir.
How has playing both ways already helped your understanding of the game on a deeper level?
It is helping me as a receiver knowing how you have to run your route for the safety. It is helping already. Being a receiver, I will know what the safety is trying to give me and if he will break on my routes. It will help a lot.
Your speed shows on film, what is the best-timed run you’ve posted?
My 40 time is a 4.62.
Nice. Are you playing any other varsity sports?
Yes, I play basketball and run track.
How did your basketball season go?
We made it to state, but we lost by five. We should go to state and win it all in 2021. In state, we just had a bad fourth quarter.
Do you know what you were averaging on the court?
Yes, 17 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocks per game.
Impressive. Did you get any poster dunks this year?
Oh yeah.
How many?
I got three this season.
Very cool. Going into track, which events are you competing in this spring?
The high jump, 4×1 and relays.
What are some of the workouts you’ve been doing this offseason to increase your overall strength?
We’ve been doing push press, bench, and I have taken squatting to the extreme; that is my focus. My lower body is my strongest part. I am focusing all the way around. (laughs) I can’t be a 6-4 receiver jammed on the line. That will play a big role this season. I have improved a lot in the weight room – big time.
With all that you are doing, are you also playing 7v7?
Yes, sir. I am playing with the Bootleggers
How has playing 7v7 with the Bootleggers helped you this winter?
It is making me better. Being around all the five- and four-stars, they keep teaching me and are making me even better. It gives me confidence. There is nothing but love on the team. It makes you want to do better. In Miami, I was so confident that I felt I could do anything. Being in that atmosphere, I love it.
How are national 7v7 teams covering you during tournaments?
They will play five yards back. They never line up in man or press, even on goal line. On a 50-50 ball, I will get it no matter what.
This summer, are there any college camps you may attend?
Most definitely. I am trying to go to LSU and Tulane camps.
Staying with colleges, which schools are showing interest?
LSU, Alabama, Georgia, Notre Dame has their eyes on me, UCF, Purdue, and Miami.
And how many offers do you have?
I have five offers.
Which school was the first to offer?
Hawaii.
Broussard’s Offer Sheet: Arkansas, Hawaii, Mississippi State, Penn State, and Virginia
This summer, separate from the camps, are there any programs you may go visit?
To be honest, I want to visit Oklahoma, Georgia, and Florida State along with all the schools that have offered.
Harvey, thank you for your time today. Wishing you success with your track and 7v7 seasons this spring.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Broussard family; Harvey Broussard