Interview: 2020 California ATH Davyon Benton had a Breakout Season for Eisenhower

A lot of responsibility was laid upon the shoulders of Class of 2020 defensive back/receiver Davyon Benton during the 2018 season, and he rose to the occasion on both sides of the ball. The Eisenhower (14-1) standout came up with 72 stops, four tackles for a loss, a sack, three fumble recoveries, forced three fumbles and picked off six passes. On offense, much of the same for the 6-0, 170-pound target, 42 receptions for 877 yards with 11 touchdowns; and those stats are not the full season stats!

With recruiting picking up for Benton after a breakout junior campaign, I sat down for an in-depth one-on-one interview covering his talents and budding recruiting process.

*Interview conducted before Eisenhower’s California Championship Bowl Game against Kaiser

Interview

Davyon, the Eagles have had an amazing season going 14-0 to date. How has the team come together to play so well to win a Southern Section championship?

“This year, we put in hard work in the weight room and during the offseason. We were grinding.”

How have the playoffs gone for you?

“Good. I have been taking things personal trying to get the ring.”

What are some of the things you have been doing well during the playoffs?

“I have been following my assignments, doing what the coaches have asked me to do.”

Which game has been your best?

“My first game against Schurr. I had three touchdowns and one pick-six.”

Four touchdowns in a playoff game certainly qualifies. What have you done well all season on defense?

“At safety, playing the overhang. They keep throwing to my side, but I am not sure why. I follow the quarterback’s eyes to track the play. My open-field tackling has improved a lot as well.”

And on offense, how has that part of your game improved?

“I have improved a lot on offense this season. I get open off my explosion off the line and how shifty I am.”

You’ve been getting playing time at the varsity level since your freshman year, how did that early playing time set you up for success this season and going forward?

“My freshman year I did not get a lot of reps, but it helped. Last year, I had a broken ankle and missed games. I took it personal this season to do my best.”

 

How have college coaches responded to your season in terms of recruiting interest?

“I am receiving interest from Arizona State, Oregon, and Utah.”

Have you taken any visits during the season?

“Yes. Two weeks ago, I went to Arizona State and I have been to UCLA.”

How did the Arizona State visit go?

“It went really well. They took pics in the uniform and I met my position coach; I liked him a lot. They showed me their defense and how they run their schemes.”

And UCLA, how did that go?

“It was good. I was there for their game against USC. I was on the field before the game and went in the locker room.”

Do you have any planned you might take?

“I might go to Utah and Arizona again.”

You are you playing 7v7 ball with this spring?

“Ground Zero.”

Davyon, thanks for your time today. I appreciate you updating me on everything.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: hudl.com; Davyon Benton TD reception

Photo credit: Benton family; Davyon Benton at Arizona State