Interview: 2022 Arkansas All-State QB Hunter Talley has All the Next Level Tools
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Traditionally, bigger quarterbacks are supposed to be statues in the pocket standing in a spot so linebackers and defensive linemen can take their shots on passing downs. As the game has progressed, not only is a premium put on pocket mobility but also with the ability to move the chains on the ground when quarterbacks have no options downfield. One of those players fooling defenses left, right, and all across the field with his arm and legs is Class of 2022 dual-threat Hunter Talley.
It is hard enough for 6A Arkansas defenses to stop Talley from slinging it all game long, but add that the 6-5, 215-pound, quarterback can move… it forces the most athletic of defenses to be on their “A-game” when facing Siloam Springs. Talley exploited defenses for 2,381 yards with 27 touchdowns earning All-State and All-Conference honors in 2020. As word travels, college programs are taking interest. On a deeper look, the 3.81 GPA student-athlete has posted a 34 composite and 35 Superscore on the ACT making life even easier for college scouts along the recruiting trail.
In an RNG stylized longform Q&A, Talley breaks down his game and the Panthers offense with a look at his growing recruiting options.
Interview
Eli, you were working the ball all over the field and running it down the opposition’s throat. Looking back, how did the season go for you personally?
I had a pretty good season personally, but there are some areas that I need to improve. Overall, it was a pretty good season.
What style of offense were you executing?
We run a Spread. We like to spread the ball out horizontally and throw over the top.
How were defenses playing against you guys?
We get a lot of man, a lot of press. That is something we need to work on, getting off the press.
When did you get the green light to run?
We like to run off our pass. If they drop back, we run power and counters.
What were some of the routes you were connecting on last season?
Curls, posts, fades, hitches, and slants.
How did your overall game improve throughout the season?
Throughout the year I got better with my pocket presence, footwork, moving in the pocket and keeping my eyes downfield.
Which areas of your technique and fundamentals are you focused on this offseason?
I am working on my throwing motion, making sure I am getting back far enough with a consistent motion. I am also working on throwing off-platform throws.
Are you working with a QB trainer?
Yes, I am working with Coach (Dave) Rader out of Tulsa.
More of the same, but with Coach Rader what are you working on?
My mechanics and motion, and making sure I am getting enough separation.
Let’s move into the classroom. What is your cumulative GPA?
3.81
Have you taken the ACT and/or SAT yet?
Yes. On the ACT I have a 34 composite and a 35 Superscore.
Awesome. Are you competing in any other sports with Siloam Springs?
Yes, I run track.
Which events?
The 4×1, 4×2, 4×4, and 300 hurdles.
Are there any camps coming up that you may attend, college or otherwise?
I haven’t been to any yet. I am trying to do an Ivy league camp circuit: Dartmouth, Harvard, Yale, and Columbia.
Let’s keep with the colleges talking recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
Memphis and Arkansas State are talking to me a lot. Penn, Columbia, Harvard, Dartmouth, Yale, Georgetown, and Princeton are showing interest as well.
Separate from the camps, are there any visits you may take this summer when the dead period lifts?
Yes, I want to visit Arkansas State and Memphis.
Hunter, I appreciate your time today. Wishing you the best of luck this offseason working on your fundamentals and with the upcoming camps.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Democrat-Gazette/Talley family; Hunter Talley