Interview: 2020 Centennial WR Aaron Smith Talks Football and Entering League Play
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
In Centennial’s wide-spread offense, at anytime four to five players on the field can get the ball putting the hurt on the opposition. The 20th ranked team in the nation has been prolific yet again on offense scoring an average of 46 points per game going for 63 and 57 respectively over the last two. As the team leaves out of conference action for Big VIII League competition, as crazy as it sounds, expect the offense to hit another gear. As the offense gets going, look for Class of 2020 receiver Aaron Smith to breakout in league play after a 19-receptions 316-yard, and three-touchdown season a year ago rolling in with eight receptions for 120 yards with a score in 2019. Smith is a technician at receiver with speed and hands using his 6-1, 200-pound, frame as need to rough up defensive backs.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I sat down with Smith, a 3.85 GPA student, before the Huskies (3-2) take on Santiago for an update on his senior season.
*Click link for June 6, 2019, RNG video interview with Aaron Smith
Interview
Aaron, the last two games the Huskies have been blowing the doors off folks with a 63-point effort against Liberty (NV) and a 57-point game against Long Beach Poly. What is working for you guys over the last two leading to the big wins?
“After the first couple of games, we are better at blocking downfield. Our running game has gotten going and the holes are there. We are taking advantage of opportunities and our penalties are at a minimum.”
What are some of the routes you are running within the offense this season and where all are you lining up?
“I’m mainly lining up at outside receiver. The routes, I am running slants, 5-yard ins, posts, and some vertical routes.”
Which areas of your game are showing the most improvement?
“My physicality and effort. I am on special teams as well making a difference, I have six or seven tackles. I am making plays when I can, blocking for my teammates, and setting up my teammates for scoring opportunities.”
Of the games played, which has been your best and why?
“The Cathedral Catholic game was my best. We are graded on our performance in each game; I lost the least amount of reps in that one. I was physical, won my battles, and played well when it counted.”
Is there an area of your game that might get overlooked?
“Areas that might get overlooked… my route running, my speed, my physicality, and technique. I am hard to cover one-on-one.”
What do you feel are the overall strengths to your game now?
“I block well and I catch well. I don’t let things get into my head, I am always focused and ready to do my job. I am always trying to win; my competitiveness is key to the football player that I am.”
With recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“I’m receiving interest from APU (Azusa Pacific), UC-Davis, Sacramento State, and Eastern Washington.”
Are you planning on visiting any schools coming up?
“Yes. I am planning on visiting Arizona, Dixie State, San Diego State, and University of San Diego.”
You guys go into Big VIII League action on Friday facing Santiago (1-4), what kind of game are you expecting from the Sharks?
“They will be physical and they are fast. We have to execute to win. We have to end the game early and take away all their momentum.”
Aaron, always great catching up with you. Wishing you and the rest of the Huskies success until we talk again.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Tre Anthony/Centennial HS; Aaron Smith in action