One to Watch Interview with 2021 California WR Austin Russell
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
California high school football seasons do not always start in Week 1, some players have to wait five games due to transfer rules before taking the field to show their skills. That delay slowed down the game time for receiver Austin Russell in 2019, but he made up for lost time quickly. The 6-1, 180-pound, target worked his way into California High School’s rotation as soon as possible securing 17 passes for 225 yards and took two jet sweeps for 25 more yards in five contests helping his squad to a 6-4 record.
Regional programs are starting to take notice of Russell and his Condors squad has an opportunity to make some noise in the playoffs this year further extending time on the field to rack up yards and receptions. For an update on it all, we sat down for a conversation.
Interview
Austin, the Condors closed out their regular season with a 6-4 record. Looking back, how did the season go for you personally?
“We could have done better. Injuries held us back. But we had underclassmen step up and we did well considering all the injuries we had to overcome to win games.”
What offensive set are the Condors executing?
“We run a Spread and another pro-style set with a fullback and tight end, but we are mostly in the Spread with doubles.”
Which routes are you running this season and which ones are your favorites?
“My favorite is a 10-yard out. It is a guaranteed ball for me with the outside receiver running a streak. I can beat out the linebacker or safety. If the ball is there it is a guaranteed completion.”
Which game was your best this season?
“It had to be the Don Lugo game. We changed offensive coordinators mid-league. We switched up our formations a lot.
What did you do well in the Don Lugo game to make it your best?
“I was nervous, it was my first game of my junior season. I was open a lot. Their defense was a 4-3, I found open spots in their defense. I knew I would do well the rest of the season after that game.”
Of the plays turned in this season, which one is your top play?
“My top play of the season was against Santa Fe. There was 20 seconds left in the game. I ran a 15-yard out on 4th down. I caught it on the sidelines and went out of bounds at the 5-yard line. We scored on a slant on the next play to win. That was my most impactful play of the season that helped us win a big game.”
Nice. How did your talents grow during the regular season?
“I have come a long way. I have grown into my body; I was 5-foot 7-inches my freshman year. I had a huge growth spurt over my sophomore year. I have grown a lot and gotten way better. I will put in even more work this offseason to my game to prepare for my senior year. My route running and my hands are the best of my game. My cuts throw off the defense, that helps me get open.”
Was there a weaker part of your game at the start of the season that became a strength by the end?
“At the beginning, I was not good at blocking. Because I grew and I got bigger from lifting in the weight room, I think I am the best blocker on our team now. I have gotten better at that this season.”
With the 6-4 record, what are you guys looking at for a playoff seed?
“On Sunday we will find out about the playoffs. We are hoping we get an invite on Sunday.”
You touched on this a minute ago, what all will you work on this offseason?
“I plan on getting my speed up, speed training and working on my route running. I will go to as many camps as I can, compete in 7v7, and work on my craft as much as possible.”
The transfer rule may have slowed down your recruiting some, but which schools are already showing interest?
“I am talking to coaches on Twitter. I have talked to Puget Sound and APU (Azusa Pacific).”
From the summer to now, have you visited any schools?
“Yes. I took visits to UNLV and to USC for a practice.”
Any planned visits ahead?
“I plan on visiting Cal Lutheran this offseason.”
Austin, thanks for your time today and good luck with the playoff seeding and in the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: California HS; No. 81 Austin Russell