Update Interview with 4-Star 2021 Tennessee WR Quenton Barnes
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When Quenton Barnes gets it going on the field, there is little stopping the 6-3, 190-pound, receiver. The Cane Ridge standout ended his sophomore season with 30 receptions for 582 yards and four scores with teams seeking to stop him but still earning All-League honors. His Antioch (TN) team has already begun their season with opposing secondaries bracketing Barnes. College programs like what they see in Barnes with 16 teams putting down an offer to date.
For an update on his offseason workouts and how that translated into the first game of his junior season, I got a few minutes in with the four-star recruit.
*Click link for May 25, 2019, RNG interview with Quenton Barnes
Interview
Quenton, when we last spoke you were gearing up to add safety to your list of responsibilities for the 2019 season. How is that part of your game coming around two games into the schedule?
“I did play as much in this last game, but I played some at safety. I stayed over the top of the ball. I did my job and did a good job of reading my area.”
You put a lot of work into your game as a receiver over the offseason. Where are you seeing the improvements on that side of the ball?
“I am running faster routes. That is one thing I have really improved on this offseason. They are much cleaner routes.”
How are teams scheming against you as a receiver?
(Laughs) “They play far back and bring a safety over the top. They are bracketing me.”
In what ways are the coaches getting you the ball this season so far?
“I am getting the ball on inside routes or one-on-ones when I can get them. Some posts and short routes too.”
The Ravens get a talented Brentwood team on Friday. What kind of game are you expecting from the Bruins?
“I expect them to play like they usually play, knowing what they are supposed to do and being disciplined.”
Of the remaining games, which showdowns are you excited to play maybe a little more than the rest?
“Ravenwood.”
They are a good team. What are your goals for this season?
“My goal is for us to be better than last season, myself included.”
Quick update on recruiting. How many offers do you have?
“I have 16.”
Barnes’ Offer Sheet: Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Louisville, Memphis, Mississippi State, Missouri, Ole Miss, Purdue, Rutgers, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, and Virginia Tech
Did you visit any programs this summer?
“Yes. I visited Florida and South Carolina.”
How was the Florida visit?
“It was great experience.”
And South Carolina?
“I was there for a 7v7 tournament. I was surprised in a positive way with South Carolina.”
Are taking in any game day visits this fall?
“I have not planned any yet.”
Quenton, great catching up with you today. Good luck with the rest of the season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: twitter.com/Barnes family; Quenton Barnes at a Florida camp