One to Watch Interview with 2020 Antelope Valley DT Reggie Jones
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On paper, Reggie Jones is the prototypical defensive tackle/nose guard lining up for Antelope Valley at 6-2, 315 pounds. The Antelopes have been one of California’s best teams in the Division V ranks running their record to 9-2 on the season with their emerging tackle coming up with 31 stops, six tackles for a loss, and two sacks. The high level of play against the run while putting pressure on the opposition’s quarterback coupled with Jones’ upside has started to bring next level recruiting interest. With an opening round playoff win and a second round showdown against Lawndale coming on Friday, Jones will have another opportunity to show college coaches what he can do on the field before the spring evaluation period and the flood of camps and combines.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the rising talents in California’s 2020 class to learn more about his game.
Interview
Reggie, how has the 2018 season gone for you?
“It has been pretty good. At first there was an adjustment after I transferred from Paraclete, but I like it here.”
The Antelopes squared off against some tough teams this season, how did playing against top California talent help push your game forward?
“It helped me a lot. I played my best game against the top players. Against Grace Brethren, I played really well and that game really helped me improve. It showed me what I need to work on when I watched the film.”
Which areas of your game improved the most this season as a defensive tackle?
“From last season, I used more moves this season, I got stronger, and I played a lot lower.”
What are some of the moves you like to use during games?
“I like using push-pull, a swim move, and a bull rush.”
What do you work on every day in practice?
“I work on staying low, using my hands, read and reacting.”
How have offenses tried to attack you or scheme against you to try to take you out of plays?
“I get double-teamed a lot and they try to chop down on me.”
You are a big guy, any chance you may play some on the offensive line upcoming?
“I have been playing on the offensive line lately.”
How is that coming along?
“Fine. I am showing my versatility and helping my team. I like it.”
Which position on the offensive line are you playing?
“Left guard.”
Which schools are showing interest in you along the defensive line?
“I am receiving interest from UCLA and Oregon State.”
Have you taken any unofficial visits yet?
“Yes I went to UCLA for the Fresno State game. I also went to a USC game.”
How did the UCLA visit go?
“It went well. I liked it.”
Back to the Antelopes. The team closed out with consecutive wins against Littlerock and Eastside, how is the team looking heading into the playoffs?
“I think we look good. We can’t take plays off. We cannot go in too cocky or arrogant.”
What are the strengths of the team?
“We have Jamaal Bell, he has speed, Dylan Hall off the edge, and Jordan Jones rushing too. And, we have Jermaine Marshall at running back; those guys are some of the strengths to our team.”
*Antelope Valley defeated Don Lugo 32-15 in the opening round of the playoffs and face Lawndale next.
Reggie, I appreciate your time today. Good luck in the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Jones family; Reggie Jones