4-Star 2018 CB Ken Montgomery Updates Season During Arkansas Unofficial

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

There is no secret that Ken Montgomery Jr. is one of the more coveted cornerbacks in the 2018 recruiting class. The Hillsborough High School four-star has over 20 scholarship offers from some of the top schools across the nation but he is just now getting out to test the recruiting waters campus to campus.

Montgomery jumped onto the scene in 2015 coming up with 21 tackles and two picks in seven games played. The stat line has increased this season, but opposing Florida offense really want nothing to do with Montgomery. His Tampa area squad is playoff bound after posting an 8-1 regular season record with their junior corner cutting off his half of the field. So far the 6-2, 165 pound, talent has stopped 30 ball carriers, broken up 10 passes, and forced a fumble.

As mentioned, college recruiters are impressed. The list of schools to set offers on the table includes Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Maryland, Oregon State, Penn State, Cincinnati, Duke, Temple, Indiana, Virginia Tech, Tennessee, and Louisville, to name a few. So far Montgomery has visited South Florida and is in Fayetteville this weekend to see the Razorbacks take on the Florida Gators.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I caught up with Montgomery while in Fayetteville to get his thoughts on his junior season to date along with some insight on his recruiting process.

Interview

Ken, the Terriers were tearing through the 2016 season until the loss to Armwood last Friday. Will the 38-20 loss to Armwood help the Terriers in the playoffs?

“Yeah, it’ll help us to play harder and play better. We are focused to win the next game.”

You guys get Lake Gibson next. What kind of challenge does Lake Gibson present for the Terriers?

“I don’t know yet. We’ll try to win the game, win and go on to the next round of the playoffs.”

How are you expecting teams to challenge you in the playoffs?

“It’ll be different from what I have been seeing this season. It’ll be different. Now I’ll get more action.”

The Terriers were scrappy last year during a 4-6 season losing some really close games. What has been the difference for the team this year turning close losses into big wins?

“Leadership. The players we have on the team are different and more dedicated.”

How has your season gone overall?

“I’m happy but at the same time I have not gotten that much action. The season has not been as exciting as I thought it would be.”

How has your game improved this season?

“I’m more physical at my position. I’m learning different coverages and playing better.”

What areas of your game will you focus on in the off-season?

“Everything. I’ll focus on everything.”

Do you get tested very often game by game by a quarterback?

“No. I don’t get tested at all.”

On average how often per game do they throw your way?

“Maybe once.”

Who has been the toughest receiver you’ve gone up against this season, and how has that game made you a better player going forward?

“Probably Warren Thompson. He’s a wide receiver from Armwood. He’s a high prospect.”

What was the best 40-yard dash time you ran this summer?

“I ran a 4.5 at a FSU (Florida State) camp.”

How many offers do you have right now?

“Twenty-two.”

Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you but have not offered you yet?

“Ohio State, Florida, Miami, and FSU.”

Of the teams that have offered, which ones are showing the most interest?

“Arkansas, Tennessee, Penn State, and USC.”

Which schools have you taken unofficials to this season?

“USF, and I’m at Arkansas now.”

When did you get to Arkansas?

“I arrived on Thursday.”

What are you hoping to learn or see while visiting Arkansas?

“I want to learn more about the coaching staff and I hope to learn more about the environment.”

Last question. What got you excited/interested in Arkansas from the start?

“Coach B (head coach Bret Bielema) loves me and I love the environment at Arkansas.”

Ken, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your visit at Arkansas.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: hoosierhuddle.com; No. 15 Ken Montgomery Jr.

Photo credit: Montgomery family; Ken Montgomery at Arkansas (Oct. 2016).