Interview: 2017 Gonzaga Prep LB Taj Hoard Tackling Recruiting Trail

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

The 2016 high school football season has come to a close for the majority of teams across the nation, including Gonzaga Prep. One of the Bullpups’ top players over the last couple of years hung his cleats up after a truly heartbreaking first round 37-35 playoff loss to Chiawana (Pasco). Now Taj Hoard is looking forward to his collegiate career embracing the recruiting trail as it comes his way.

One thing to say about the 6-0, 225 pound, linebacker, he was consistent on the field. His junior season ended with 115 total tackles that included 30 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits (not hurries), 15 quarterback hits, 14.5 sacks, five fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles. Hoard’s play helped the Bullpups secure a state title last season

Through 10 games played in 2016, Hoard was once again a menace to opposing Washington high school offenses tallying 116 tackles, 28 tackles for a loss, seven sacks, two forced fumbles, 17 quarterback hurries, and 14 quarterback hits.

College recruiters taking a deeper look at Hoard, will see that he moved from outside linebacker in 2015 to inside during his senior year. Some of the teams that could turn interest into offers over the coming weeks includes Colorado State, Idaho, Portland State, North Colorado, and Eastern Washington.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Hoard at the completion of his senior season to get an overview on his play on the field while getting an update on his recruitment.

Interview

Taj, you moved from outside to inside linebacker this year. How did the move inside suit you?

“I liked it a lot. I felt good at inside linebacker. It felt good mentally and physically for me to play the middle.”

How did the season go overall for the team?

“It went really well. We came out with a rough start. We had guys in places they were uncomfortable. As the season went along everyone started getting into the flow for the rest of the season. A lot of guys figured out where they belong and what worked best for us as a team.”

How did the season go for you personally?

“I think I did a lot better than last year. I improved a lot. I was a run stopper and rusher last year. I was doing that again this year but developed as a pass dropper too.”

You mentioned your pass drops were an improvement, what else did you improve upon this year?

“My speed and quickness, and my ability to get off blockers faster.”

Which game was your best this season?

“Either Eastside Catholic (loss 21-7) or Central Valley (won 28-19). Maybe Eastside Catholic was my best.”

What did you do against Eastside Catholic that made that game your best?

“There were some third-and-ones that I stuffed the running back and got the ball back for our offense. I got out to their receivers in the slot quick limiting them to 3- or 4-yards too. I had a good all-around game.”

Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you right now?

“Idaho, Eastern Washington, Portland State, Northern Colorado and Colorado State.”

What is your GPA this semester?

“I have a 3.3 GPA. My core is up to a 3.0.”

What did you get on the ACT?

“I scored a 23.”

Have you started your off-season workouts?

“I have.”

Have you set any goals for yourself?

“I’m working on getting faster and stronger. I’m working on getting my running form down.”

Who are you working out with, a trainer or at school?

“Both. I workout at school and I workout with Tommy Boyer Kendrick. He works at Rockwood. We do all these workouts for speed, agility, and some strength.”

Are you playing any spring sports for Gonzaga Prep?

“I’m not sure yet, thinking about track.”

Taj, thanks for your time today and good luck on the recruiting trail.

“Thank you.”

Photo credits: Karen Floyd; No. 47 Taj Hoard in action.