Oklahoma Football: Interview with Norman 2022 OL Viliami Makahununiu
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Viliami Makahununiu is a behemoth on the Norman offensive line. The 6’5″, 300-pound, monster plays with a high motor and great intensity. Working at offensive guard, but with the versatility to lineup anywhere in the trenches, the Class of 2022 talent has good strength, footwork, and technique blowing open holes for his running backs while keeping his quarterback protected.
Not only is Makahununiu a hard worker and leader on the gridiron, but he also plays on the basketball team and gets after it in the classroom where he has a 3.56 GPA with set goals of majoring in engineering in college.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with this standout offensive lineman to talk about his junior season at Norman High School.
Interview
How would you grade your individual performance during your junior season?
B-plus. I was correct on my assignment just about every time but I didn’t have as big of a jump in my skills as much as last year.
What are your strengths on the football field?
Pass blocking and the ability to see the defense. Also, my ability to switch positions at any time.
What do you like most about playing on the offensive line?
The offensive line in my opinion is the closest group on the field and I love that connection.
How do your skills fit into Norman’s offensive scheme?
We had a young offensive line, so trying to figure out a lineup was difficult. I’d switch from left tackle to left guard in practice, and I was playing right tackle.
How would you describe what kind of teammate you are?
I’m the type of teammate who will constantly encourage the team until the final seconds of the clock despite the score. I will always help another teammate out with anything I’m reliable.
How would you describe what kind of player you are?
Adaptive. I’m am able to switch to any of the positions in on the line and perform well.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
My deadlift max is 465, my max squat is 375, and my max bench is 265.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Travis Fredrick, I love the way he used to scan the defense and then communicate with the entire offensive line to get them all on the same page.
What do you like most about playing at Norman High School?
The coaches will always do the most they can help the players in anything they need.
Who has had the biggest impact on your high school football career?
My coach Sam Noble and SMU player Ben Sparks.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
Basketball.
What is your favorite subject and why?
Math. It is the most challenging and I think it is the most useful in the subject l want to major in (Engineering).
What is your GPA?
3.56.
What are your goals for the offseason?
Training hard in the weight room to get stronger, especially on my bench press.
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
“Don’t sin by letting anger control you. Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry.
Ephesians 4:26
Thank you for your time.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Twitter.com; No. 77 Norman OL Viliami Makahununiu