Missouri Football: Interview with Raymore-Peculiar 2022 TE Tucker Miller
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
One young tight end in the Kansas City area having a breakout season as junior Tucker Miller. Miller has caught 36 passes for 382 yards with five touchdowns being a top target for his senior quarterback Conrad Hawley all season. He has helped the Panthers to an 8-2 record overall after winning in the first round of the playoffs last Friday.
The 6’5”, 230-pound, monster has tremendous size and athleticism for age. He has a great ability to get open against defenders and good hands to snag passes. Miller is also a big asset in the rushing attack with his blocking ability.
It is only a matter of time before his recruiting process explodes as Miller currently holds 4.0 GPA and has scored a 26 on his ACT.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Tucker to talk about his very successful junior season.
Interview
Tucker, how would you grade your individual performance this season?
I would give myself a 9 out of 10 for the season. I did a lot of things well and I rarely ever missed an assignment, but I can always be a better blocker and route runner to take that next step.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My strengths are that I know everyone’s job on the field and I always know what is going to happen. I’m like an extra coach on the field. I always block the correct guy and make sure he never gets the tackle.
What kind of offense does Raymore-Peculiar run?
We run a spread offense and we like to air the ball out but aren’t afraid to go old school and get in double-wing and run the ball.
How do your skills translate to this offense?
My skills are versatile. I can line up at tight end and block or at halfback or run routes and I find space to make catches over the top of defenders.
What kind of chemistry do you have with your quarterback Conrad Hawley?
We have a special connection. We are best friends on and off the field and we both understand football at a high level.
What is one area of your game that you’ve seen the most improvement in since the start of the season?
Understanding leverage while running routes. I’ve been able to find open space easier as the season moves on.
How would you describe what kind of player you are?
I’m a hard worker and reliable. I never take a play off.
How would you describe what kind of teammate you are?
I’m always having fun. My teammates and I have respect for each other. I always do the right thing and lead by example.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Tony Gonzalez, when he was in his prime with the Chiefs.
What has been your most memorable moment in 2020?
When my senior teammate Rece Teale caught the first touchdown pass of his career against Liberty and chasing him down to celebrate was my most memorable moment.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
4.90.
What is your favorite thing about playing at your high school?
Raymore-Peculiar is one of the biggest schools in the state but sometimes it feels like a small-town school and I love it. Everyone in the community supports us and we are a winning school.
Who has had the biggest impact on your football career?
My teammate Conrad Hawley has had the biggest impact. We grew up as best friends and we competed in everything. Every time I would do something better than him, he would still convince me that he was better. He is always pushing me to make sure that I am never satisfied.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
I play basketball and baseball.
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
History, because that’s the most realistic class in school. I learn real facts about the past without bias.
What are your goals for the rest of your high school career?
I want to win a state championship, be named first team All-State, and win the Simone Award (Most Outstanding High School Football Player in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area).
What is your GPA?
4.0.
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
One of my favorite quotes is “Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you respond to it.”
Thank you for your time and good luck in the playoffs.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Miller family; Tucker Miller skies for a reception