Interview: FBS Programs are Taking Closer Look at 2018 Louisiana OL Princeton Pines
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
One thing that can never be taught in the football trenches is size and heart. Two things Class of 2018 offensive guard Princeton Pines has go for him beyond ability is size and heart.
Pines started jumping on recruiting boards after helping University Lab to a 9-5 record during the 2016 season. The 6-5, 310 pound, lineman blew open holes and kept his quarterback’s jersey clean against tough Louisiana 3A competition leading to first team All-District honors.
University Lab loves getting their big lineman out front on traps and pulls where Pines overwhelms lineman and linebackers racking up one pancake block after another. Once Pines locks onto a defender, that play is over for said defender. College coaches are starting to agree with interest rolling in from LSU, Florida State, Minnesota, SMU, Colorado State, Georgia, Northwestern, and Arkansas among others for the Baton Rouge area product.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Pines going over his junior season while getting an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Princeton, looking back on your junior season, how did the 2016 campaign go for you overall?
“I really grew as a player. I learned how to block better, move with my hips, and finish blocks. We learned how to work together as a line, as a unit to open holes for our running backs. I improved my technique this year a lot.”
How well did you play in the playoffs?
*Beat St. Michael (49-25) and Loyola College Prep (41-25) and lost to St. Thomas More (40-35).
“In the playoffs, I started running more after practice, I watched a ton of film, and I made sure I knew which blocks or who I needed to block on each play.”
Who was the best lineman or linebacker you went up against this season?
“The best defensive lineman I went up against had to be the lineman from St. Thomas More (Hunter Clay), The toughest linebacker was Chris Allen from Southern Lab.”
How did playing against those guys make you better?
“They had better technique than others. That helped me work on my technique, my blocking as a whole, coming off the ball harder, and lowering my pads.”
Which is better for you right now, your run blocking and pass set?
“I think my run blocking is better but I am working on my pass blocking.”
What are some areas you want to improve upon?
“I want to improve more on double-teams and chopping my feet on screens.”
Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you right now but have not offered?
“Florida State, Colorado State, Georgia, Kansas, Minnesota, Southern Methodist, Incarnate Word, Northwestern University, and Arkansas.”
Which schools do you have offers from so far?
“Jackson State, Kentucky Christian, and Nicholls State.”
Did you take any game day visits this season?
“Yes, sir. I went to LSU’s spring game and a Florida State game and Arkansas’ game against LSU.”
Do you have any planned visits coming up?
“I have nothing planned as of now, but some teams have reached out to me about visiting. I am communicating with my dad to see where we are going.”
What is your current overall GPA?
“I have a 3.0.”
What is your best score on the ACT or SAT?
“I got a 23 on the ACT.”
Nice. Are you playing any winter or spring sports?
“I’m going to throw the shotput this year. I just learned it. I’m working on it.”
What is your distance goal in the shot?
“I want at least 50 feet. I believe I can get up to that.”
Final question. Are there any bowl games you are excited to see coming up?
“I’m excited to see LSU, the Sugar Bowl (Auburn vs. Oklahoma), and the College Football Playoffs.”
Princeton, thanks for your time today and good luck with your off-season workouts.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: 247sports.com; Princeton Pines at Florida State.
Photo credit: Pines family; Princeton Pines at Arkansas.