Interview: 2021 Mississippi LB Keyshawn Lawrence Talks Breakout Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When watching a football game live or going over game footage, there are certain people that just stand out in a crowd with their talents shinning through. That was Class of 2021 Starkville middle linebacker/outside linebacker/end Keyshawn Lawrence during his junior campaign. Lawrence dominated 6A Mississippi competition and he just getting it going.
The Yellowjackets coaches needed a play-maker at end once the season got going allowing Lawrence to not only showcase his versatility on the field moving from middle linebacker but also demonstrated his leadership and team-first mentality. The 6-1, 227-pound, defender did not shy away from the request or sulk turning the opportunity into a way to bring the spotlight on his play while helping his squad to a 12-2 season.
After a 40-tackle sophomore campaign, Lawrence went all out rallying to the ball for 92 stops, 25 solo, with 13 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, seven quarterback hurries, forced a fumble, and picked one up. Seeing Lawrence lineup at end has to be seen. He plays bigger and stronger than a 6-1, 227-pound, end and brings the cement truck at the point of collision mauling ball carriers on the spot. Adding to the resume, he carried the rock six times for four yards with three touchdowns scored.
With Kentucky and Vanderbilt showing recruiting interest and a breakout season under his belt, Lawrence and I sat down for an RNG exclusive interview.
Interview
Keyshawn, the Yellowjackets were once again one of the top teams in Mississippi during the 2019 season. That work begins in the offseason. What is the offseason workout program like at Starkville High School?
“We do a lot of running. This year we are preparing like they do in college, we are lifting and running a lot. The coaches are trying to get us prepared for the season.”
With a Power 5 Conference program minutes away, how does the shadow of Mississippi State factor into all that you do on the field?
“In practice, you never know who is watching. You give it your all on every play. If you are walking on the field in practice, the college coaches could see that.”
The 2019 season was an amazing one for you in a breakthrough performance. You had a hybrid kind of role at end. If you will, tell me what base defense were you guys running and the roles you had within the scheme?
“We ran a 3-4 at the first. I was playing middle linebacker to start the season then they moved me to end. I played a big role at end. Going off the edge, I became a better pass rusher at end.”
As mentioned, you tore it up nearing the 100-tackle mark. What was working for you or what were you doing well allowing for the big season?
“I was watching a lot of film, learning the linemen’s keys, their plays, and their down and distance plays.”
How were teams trying to scheme against you?
“Towards the time of the playoffs, they were running away from me. If they ran to my side, they would double-team me. I’d get skinny, fight them off, and shed blocks to make the play, but mostly they were running the other way.”
A surprise bonus question here. You got some snaps at running back this season, how did that go for you?
“When I was little, I used to play running back. When the ball is in my hands, I like it. I like scoring touchdowns, that makes me happy.”
Which game was your best during the 2019 season?
“My best game was playoff our playoff game against Olive Branch. I was going against a top offensive tackle; he is committed to LSU. I had 12 tackles, two sacks, and one fumble recovery in that game.”
Impressive. What are you working on this offseason with your game?
“I am working on improving my speed and working on my versatility. I am a good run stopper, but I need to work on my coverage. I want to be the linebacker who can play all four downs.”
There was a switch during the 2019 season, do you know which positions you might play in 2020?
“I don’t know yet. Hopefully I will play both end and middle linebacker. I enjoy both.”
With recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“Kentucky and Vanderbilt.”
Did you take any visits during the season?
“Yes. I visited UT (Tennessee)-Martin.”
How did that visit turn out?
“It was very informative. One of their players used to play down here. I liked watching him play.”
Camp season is here, are you going to compete at any national camps this spring?
“I will compete at a Rivals camp and maybe at The Opening Regional.”
Keyshawn, it was great spending time with you today learning about your game. Thank you, and good luck with your offseason workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Starkville HS/Lawrence family; No. 10 Keyshawn Lawrence