Interview: 2021 Washington QB Justin Brennan Talks Elite 11 Regional Performance

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

After thousands of hours of watching high school football players in-person and on reel, one can pick up immediately on if a kid is true player of the game or just a very athletic talent getting by on the physical skills alone. Then there are those who combine the technical skills and the athletic abilities, and at that crossroad you see Class of 2021 quarterback Justin Brennan.

Brennan spun the pigskin for Lakes High School during the 2019 season leading his Lancers squad to a 7-3 finish. Through the 10 games against 3A competition, Brennan completed 128 passes for 1,985 yards with 19 touchdowns and rushed for 119 with one trip into the end zone. The devil is in the details with Brennan. The 6-0, 180-pound, field general is in command of his post using his teachings to spot leverages, go through his progressions with eyes downfield as needed with the ability to tuck it and run it to keep the chains moving. For the astute, even a photo shows the technique with a turn of the wrist to pronate with spin on the ball, shoulders square while throwing on the run with off-arm balanced in the middle of his torso.

The play on the field for Brennan is bringing in college football recruiting interest and earned him an invite to the Elite 11 Regional in Southern California (March 7). After seeing Brennan at the Elite 11, we stepped into the RNG Lab for a detail conversation.

Interview

Justin, after watching your game footage from the 2019 season, it looked like you were in complete control of the Lancers’ multi-faceted Spread attack. How did your confidence and comfort within the offense last season help you press defenses throughout the season?

“With a lot of work with my coaches and my QB coach really helped me with my footwork and reading zones. Having a great offensive line helps and working with great receivers helps.”

The work put in for each opponent during the week shows in your play on the field. Whether you are hitting a route against a leverage or going through your progressions, you are mentally locked into the game. How do you prepare to get to that point?

“Practice. Taking every rep to my best ability at game speed and going over the details really helps me prepare. I take a lot of mental reps.”

Calling you out in a positive way now; your arm strength and touch along with your movement in the pocket with eyes downfield are strengths I see in your game. What are some other traits that sets you apart from other quarterbacks?

“My leadership and commanding the offense – I take a lot of pride in that. I also feel like my mobility is not noticed as much is it should be. I am faster than people think. I am good at reading defenses.”

Over the weekend you took your skills to the Elite 11 Regional in California. How did that camp go for you?

“It was really good. I learned a lot, like how to hold yourself on and off the field.”

The coaches put you guys through numerous drills; what were some of the drills where you felt you performed at your best?

“My best was in Pro Day; I was in the Top 4 in Pro Day. I did really well with my mobility, throwing on the run, and choosing the right receiver based on the defense.”

What were a couple of things you learned that will help you going forward?

“I learned how to step up better in the pocket, throwing on the run, and how to get out of the pocket easier.”

Which parts of your game are you working on this offseason?

“This offseason I am working on my throwing motion and footwork, making them quicker.”

Are you heading to any camps coming up?

“I am going to attend the Poly Bowl, Pacific Showcase, and the Avery Strong Showcase.”

Going into recruiting; which schools are showing interest?

“Nevada, Montana, Montana State, Oregon State, and Eastern Washington.”

Will you visit any schools this spring or over the summer?

“In June, I am going to both Montana schools, and to Boise State in April.”

What is the goal for you over this offseason?

“Preparing for next season – I am excited for it.”

Justin, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of your workouts this spring.

“Thank you.”

Contribute Now

Photo credit: Elite 11/Brennan family; Justin Brennan at the 2020 Elite 11 Regional (CA)