Interview: California 2018 WR Michael Ezeike Coming into his Own with Colony
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Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
What opposing California high school defensive coordinators already know, and the rest of the country is slowly starting to find out, Michael Ezeike is developing into a “can’t miss” player.
The Class of 2018 talent has all the measurables and is starting to enforce his will on the gridiron. Listed at 6-5, 210 pounds, Ezeike possesses the ideal size for a high impact player at any level but plays beyond just being a big body on the field. The rising Colony High School star has team-highs with 22 receptions, 286 yards receiving, and seven touchdowns. Showing his versatility, Ezeike also plays defensive end notching 17 total tackles with two batted down passes five games into his junior year.
When the ball is in the air, Ezeike uses his body to fend off corners and is sure as the sunrise on 50/50 balls in the corner of the end zone. His massive wingspan gives a wide target showing the ability to adjust to the ball as needed to make the big catch. He is strong for his size too. The slight shoving match for position between receiver and defensive back when the ball is coming is an Ezeike winner every time. Beyond his pass catching abilities, he is one of the few young receivers who enjoys dominating the opposition in the run game by keeping running lanes open for his tailbacks downfield.
College coaches are quickly starting to turn their attention to the Ontario area talent. Teams like Michigan, N.C. State, New Mexico, Northern Arizona, Arizona State, and UCLA are all reaching out.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Ezeike to see how his junior season has gone so far and got an update on his recruitment process.
Interview
Michael, how is the season going for you five games into the schedule?
“The season is going great so far. I am satisfied with the way I have played. I have a lot of receptions and I am focused on getting better each week. I am satisfied overall with my play on both sides of the ball.”
What gains you have made with your game this season at the wide receiver position?
“My coaches told me my speed and strength have gotten better. That’s two things that have improved this year from a year ago.”
What are you still working to improve upon during the season?
“Things I am working on, my routes – I want to run great routes every play, and my blocking. Some receivers have good routes but are bad blockers.”
Will your role expand with Colony as you guys get into the heart of your district schedule?
“Possibly. They might put me at tight end depending on who we are playing.”
Is there a game left on the schedule you are a little more excited to play over the others?
“I look forward to every game but I am really looking forward to the playoffs.”
Which teams are showing recruiting interest in you?
“I’m getting a lot of letters from NAU (Northern Arizona). They tell me to keep it up. New Mexico, Arizona State, Michigan, N.C. State, and UCLA are all showing interest.”
Have you taken any game day visits yet?
“I went to the UCLA game against Arizona on Saturday.”
How was that visit for you?
“It was a really cool experience. I got to meet the players. After the game, being in the locker room after they won, that was a cool experience. I got to talk to the coaches some while I was there too.”
Any other visits set up?
“None right now but I have a recruiting pass with UCLA. Hopefully I can catch some more games.”
Michael, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Michael Ezeike.