Interview: 2018 California WR/FS Noah Guzman Laying Groundwork for Big Senior Year with Bishop Amat
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
On the gridiron, it is always impressive watching a two-way star impose their will against the opposition on both sides of the ball. The excitement factor takes another step up at the high school level when realizing said standout is playing their first year at the varsity level. The noteworthiness of the play on the field takes yet another step up when finding out that one of the positions played was the first ever for the growing talent. All the aforementioned achievements is what Noah Guzman did for Bishop Amat High School during his junior season laying the groundwork for an even more impressive senior campaign.
Guzman filled the stat sheet during his junior year racking up 67 tackles, 37 solo, one tackle for a loss, and one interception playing free safety. On offense, where Guzman’s play showed an extra spark of enthusiasm, ended with eight receptions for 89 yards and three carries for 54 yards. His special teams contributions included 284 kick return yards and 34 punt return yards along with a blocked punt taken back for a score.
Lost in the stat line is the knowledge that Guzman had never played free safety before the 2016 season. The all-around athlete proved to be not only an ultimate team player by lending his talents on defense, but a quick study to the game reading his keys quickly, coming set at the point of contact to make the tackle, and showing he likes to bring the big hits rattling opposing receivers when he can. The 6-0, 190 pound, athlete showcased his speed and shiftiness on offense taking advantage of his opportunities when they came his way fighting through arm tackles and making moves to gain as many yards as possible to help his Mission League squad out.
College coaches taking the time to scout southern California are starting to clue in on the Whittier area product. Many of the Ivy League schools like Penn, Yale, Harvard, Columbia, and Princeton are already showing interest as well as programs like Northern Arizona and Georgetown. With a season lying in wait, not only for Guzman but also for his Lancers squad returning a lot of talent, more and more college squads are sure to find the rising prospect with next level athletic abilities as the 2017 season goes forward.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the overlooked Golden State talents getting his thoughts on the 2016 season with an update on his off-season workouts and how his recruitment process has played out.
Interview
Noah, you were a true two-way player for Bishop Amat in 2016? Which position do you like best, free safety or receiver?
“I like receiver a lot more. I grew up playing receiver. I was new to playing safety last season. I had never played defense before last year. Last year was all new to me on defense.”
You lined up in the backfield utilized a lot as a pass receiving threat, will you get carries next season at running back?
“Yeah, maybe. It depends on our scheme for the game. That was all game plan against their schemes.”
Will your role on offense overall open up even more in 2017?
“Yeah. I am playing receiver this year – that will be my main position. When they need me on defense I will move back to defense.”
You had a punt block return for a touchdown last year, was that your first special teams score?
“Yes, it was. That was against Servite.”
What was that like for you getting that punt return for a touchdown?
“It was a great experience. Getting into the end zone on varsity for the first time, that was my proudest moment. It meant a lot to me. My teammates were happy. They blocked for me and set it up. I was really happy about it.”
What are you working on this off-season to prepare for your senior year?
“I’m working primarily on my hip flexibility to get out of my breaks quicker and more on my footwork. I am working on my hands too although I feel that I have good hands. My speed, get off, and a lot of releases are my main focuses this off-season.”
What are the strengths of game as a receiver?
“My hands and my leaping ability.”
Have you attended any exposure camps this spring?
“No.”
Are you planning on attending any college camps this summer?
“Yes. I am planning on attending Stanford’s overnight camp on June 22-23. I’m hoping to attend a Northern Arizona camp too. I’m not sure when that is yet.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you so far?
“Several schools are showing interest. The main ones are Northern Arizona, Columbia, Harvard, Princeton, Georgetown, Yale, and Penn.”
Do you play any other sports for Bishop Amat?
“Yes. I play basketball.”
How did the season go for you this year?
“It went well. I was a returning player. I played last year too.”
How is everything going in the classroom?
“I have a 3.7 GPA.”
Have you taken the ACT or SAT yet?
“I took the SAT and received a 1070.”
What is your favorite subject in school?
“Physics and math. I am big on the sciences and math.”
Last question. Who is your favorite NFL or college player?
“My favorite college player is Jamal Adams (LSU Tigers). I love his versatility. And Jabrill Peppers (Michigan Wolverines). Peppers reminds me of myself playing all the positions even though he is undersized. He stepped up and played to the best of his abilities. I like that.”
Noah, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your off-season workouts.
“Thank you.”
Click the link to watch Noah Guzman’s Hudl highlight reel.
Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com FREE!
If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!
Photo credits: Vince Quinones; No. 9 Noah Guzman in action (2016).