Season and Recruiting Update Interview with 3-Star 2020 LB Jordan Allen

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

What a difference a year made for Cathedral Catholic. The Dons went from a 5-7 team in 2017 to a dominating 9-1 this year. There are awards and pats on the back to give out to the offense after scoring 34 points per game on average this season, but the defense was a true terror allowing a total of 102 points through 10 games. One of the key contributing factors to opposing Division I California squads going nowhere on offense against the Dons this season was Class of 2020 linebacker Jordan Allen.

Allen has evolved into that true do-everything linebacker capable of stuffing the run, pressure the quarterback, and defend against the pass in coverage. Stats posted through eight games for Allen has him with 68 stops, 27 solo, 21 tackles for a loss, and six sacks. Recruiting for the 6-2, 205-pound, defender is picking up after a standout season. Offers have been extended from Arizona State, Florida Atlantic, and Syracuse with a whose who of top programs showing interest.

In an RNG stylized catch-up interview, I sat down with Allen after the Dons complete their regular season for insight on how his game has improved with an update on his recruiting prospects.

*Click link for Sept. 4, 2018, RNG video interview with Jordan Allen

Interview

Jordan, the Dons turned in a fantastic regular season this year posting a 9-1 record. The defense was salty only allowing 10 points per game on average. Just how salty was the defense this year and what all are you guys doing well as a unit?

“We worked together as a brotherhood this season. We played for the guy next to us. That is what our defensive coordinator preaches, and that is what we did.”

The team got a punctuation win to close out the regular season downing Point Loma 59-7. How did the final game of the regular season go for you?

“It went great. I played against some of my friends from Loma. It felt so good winning Western League. That was a great feeling.”

In which ways did you improve your game this year as a run stopper?

“My tackling has improved a lot this season and my rush moves. I am reading my keys better and I know what is about to happen with the play based on the formation of the offense from studying so much film. (laughs) I am a big film junkie now.”

What about against the pass, how did your game improve this season?

“I thought I got to QB well this season with pressure. My blitzing, that improved a lot over the season.”

Which game this season was your best and why do you consider it to be your best?

“There were a lot of good games for me this year. If I had to narrow it down I would say it was either the Helix or Serra game. In the Helix game, I did really well. I had a lot of big plays and I scored a touchdown.”

How are college coaches responding to your play on the field this season? What feedback are you receiving?

“They like that I can cover, that I can rush the QB, and that I can make plays.”

You have the three offers and your interest list is always expanding. Which schools are showing interest in you now but have not offered yet?

“I am receiving interest from Washington State, San Diego State, Arizona, Notre Dame, Michigan, Utah, Colorado, Fresno State, Army, and UCLA.”

Have you had a chance to visit any schools this fall?

“Yes. I took a visit to Cal.”

How did the Cal visit go?

“That went great. Coach (Cory) Nicol, their director of player personnel, is a great guy. I went up there for the Cal game against Oregon. We toured the facilities, went down on the field, and talked to some coaches. It was a great visit.”

Do you have any planned visits upcoming?

“Yes. I am thinking about visiting San Diego State, Notre Dame, Arizona State, USC, and UCLA.”

Nice. Last question. The Dons play host to Carlsbad (6-3) on Nov. 9 in the playoffs, what challenges will the Lancers offense bring to the field against you guys?

“They are very quick, a no-huddle offense, that will be tough to go up against. They have an athletic receiver (Asa Turner) committed to Washington. It will be a hard-fought game for the win.”

Jordan, always great catching up with you. Good luck in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Jordan Allen