Interview with Rising 2021 California Dual-Threat QB Bryce Weiner
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When Class of 2021 quarterback Bryce Weiner is at the helm for Bullard High School, the prevailing feeling is that everything is alright. No matter how a play shakes out, Weiner has it covered from moving up in the pocket while keeping his eyes downfield to make a play or knowing when to take advantage of what the defense is giving with his legs. In five games with the Knights during the 2019 season, Weiner (6-0, 178) connected on 70 of 116 passes for 1,015 yards with 11 touchdowns tossed and ran one in helping his squad to a 9-3 run.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of California’s rising QB talents going deep with his play on the gridiron.
Interview
Bryce, no matter what is going on with the chaos during a given play, your style of play is poised, relaxed, and in control making things happen. How have you developed that mindset of working within the offense to make a play when things do not go as planned?
“My speed is what people see with me. Getting out of the pocket is key. I can make plays on the run and keep things going. I can extend plays and make things happen.”
Another part of your game I really like is your decision making, both passing and running. That comes from being aware of game situations, your opponent, and great coaching. What is your process before a play is called from reading the defense, calling out a blocking assignment if needed, and mentally going through what you will do if pressured?
“First, I scan the field to see for high safeties. After the snap, I go through my progressions, first, second, and third receiver finding holes in the defense to see where the ball needs to be placed.”
Running a Spread offense, how does that fit your talents and abilities?
“It is fast-paced, that is what I like about it. You are always trying to get to the next play as fast as you can. You are moving the game along at a fast pace. I work really well when the pressure is on and I can make plays in key situations.”
How did your overall game improve last season as a quarterback?
“I have my coaches to thank for that; we had great ones last year. They were pushing me to be my best. They made sure everything was perfected going into the season and during the season, and that everything in practice was set for us to be ready for the games.”
What were some of the routes you were throwing to last season?
“Usually our first routes are mostly fades. We had other plays with a snag – snag-corner concept, a fit route over the middle of the field, a 10 or 12-yard curl, and a swing to the running back.”
When defenses were lining up against you, how were they defending against you and the team?
“When facing us, they would try to drop back more. We got a two-high look usually. We would get some one-high looks, deep ball beaters, and attack them through the air. In two-high, we would attack the middle of the field. I saw a lot of Cover 4 and some teams would mix in Cover 2 and man coverage.”
Of the games played last season, which was your best personal performance?
“My best was against San Joaquin Memorial.”
What did you do well in that game to make it your best?
“I was making plays left and right throughout the game. I was making sure we were keeping the game close and getting the ball to the receivers. I was making plays on the run.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“This offseason I am working on my short game, I need to improve on that – slants and speed-outs. I am also working on comebacks and hole shots.”
Are you receiving any extra outside training to help with your offseason progress?
“Yes. I am also working out with T1 Sports Academy – I am working out with them this offseason and with my QB coach.”
How is the extra work with T1 Sports Academy helping you push your game forward?
“T1 Sports Academy is a really good program. They are helping me with my agility, and helping me fully recover from last year (hip) getting me back to the best of my abilities. They are pushing me back to where I was before and beyond.”
As the offseason goes on, are you going to compete at any camps or at any 7v7 tournaments?
“We have a 7v7 Pylon Tournament in Las Vegas this weekend and I am going to college camps this summer.”
Are you playing any other sports for your school?
“I am playing baseball.”
Which positions?
“Everywhere in the outfield.”
Bryce, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Hudl/Weiner family; Bryce Weiner
Photo credit: Fresno Bee/Weiner family; Bryce Weiner high release