Change in scenery not stopping Chuck Filiaga
Exclusive interview with Vista Murrieta lineman
When we last caught up with Class of 2017 lineman Chuck Filiaga he was crushing ball carriers for St. Augustine in San Diego as a freshman defensive end. A move to Murrieta, California has not slowed the on the field growth of a future 5-star talent but a change in positions may alter the future for this promising talent.
Filiaga is not your normal everyday high school football player. He’s a 6’7”, 275 pound, athletically gifted talent that could play defensive end and tear it up or play offensive tackle and dominate, like he currently does for Vista Murrieta High School.
The Broncos had two tough early season losses but have reeled off five straight wins including a 35-22 victory over Chaparral over the weekend. With one game left against Temecula Valley, sitting at 7-2, the Broncos could be heading back into territory Filiaga is all too familiar with, winning a state championship.
Filiaga sat down for an exclusive interview updating us on recruiting and the 2014 season.
Chuck, you guys are 7-2, how is the season going for the Broncos?
“The season is going great. We’re undefeated in league.”
How is your season going playing on offense only?
“I’m doing well at offensive tackle. I’ve planted my roots there. I feel like I’m a lot better at that position than at defensive end.”
Young Filiaga might be a little modest, as a freshman for St. Augustine Chuck had 52 tackles, seven sacks, three QB Hurries, and five tackles for a loss starting in nine games. He was named All-Eastern League in 2013.
Does your school record pancake blocks?
“I don’t look at those stats too much.”
If you had to guess how many knockdown blocks do you have this season?
“I don’t know, 20 maybe, maybe more?”
What are the strengths of the Broncos team this year?
“On offense we started off really slow but we’re doing much better than before. Our defense is doing great they get the job done game after game.”
What are your strengths on the field?
“I’d say one of my strengths is pass blocking and in run blocking going to the next level hitting the linebackers. I need to work on my footwork. I allowed four sacks early but have gotten a lot better over the season.”
Do you miss playing on defense?
“Yes but I’m starting a new track. The coaches are open to me playing both ways next year but wanted me to get the offense down first.”
Are any schools recruiting you?
“Arizona, Arizona State, Oregon, Vanderbilt, Colorado, and USC have contacted me. None of the schools have extended an offer yet.”
All in due time for the rising star!
Photo credit: EFN Exposure camp Los Angeles