Interview: 2022 Arkansas QB Austin Myers Covers Varsity Season with Vilonia
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The game film shows it all – Class of 2022 quarterback Austin Myers has all the tools of a next level quarterback. The arm, size, mobility – it is all there. During his first season starting varsity football with Vilonia High School, the 6-4, 180-pound, quarterback put his skills to the test against 5A competition taking the next important steps in his development. He finished the 2019 season completing 91 of 158 passes for 1,303 with 12 touchdowns turning his Eagles squad from a 4-6 team a year ago to a 7-4 team. With the experience under his belt and a better understanding of the game from the speed to defensive coverages, the offseason is here giving Myers time to further develop in preparation for taking his game to that next level during his junior campaign.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Myers and I sat down covering ground on all that he learned on the field this season with a look at his focus over the winter and spring months.
*Click link for previous RNG interview with Austin Myers
Interview
Austin, the 2019 season was a big one for you in terms of growth and getting the varsity experience under your belt. How did your understanding of the game grow during your sophomore campaign?
“As the season progressed, I got a lot better at reading defenses. They were doing everything to try to make you make a bad decision. I was picking up on coverages more quickly as the season progressed.”
Watching film on you, looks like defenses were trying to disguise coverages and mix things up on you. What were some of the schemes you were looking at running the no-huddle this year?
“We came across a lot of great defenses. They were disguising blitzes; you have to make the right decision, think quick, and know what they are doing. We saw a lot of man defenses and zone. When our run game got going, they went man to stack the box. If the passing was going well, they’d drop back into a Cover 3.”
Which routes were you throwing to this season?
“We threw lots of sticks, slants, some go routes. We like to throw some short passes to get the offense rolling. We try to pick them apart 5- to 10-yards at a time.”
Within the offense, how did your skills grow as a quarterback?
“My skills grew by reacting quicker. With my pre-snap read, I was able to know what they were doing before they did it. Understanding what their goal as a defense was big for my development. My release got a lot quicker. Throwing the short stuff, you have to get it out quick before the defense gets there.”
You got to showcase the arm off throwing on the run along with your escape-ability. What are some of the other aspects of your game that might get overlooked that do not show up on the stat sheet?
“On the mental side, I am very level headed. The crowd, something crazy happens, or a bad play happens it never gets to me.”
Over the winter months, what will you focus on with your technique work?
“Footwork in the pocket and getting my timing down with our new receivers. We have some young guys going into big roles this upcoming season. It will be important to develop chemistry with those new players.”
From our previous talk, I know you are a multi-sport guy. Which other sports will you play this winter and spring?
“Basketball and track.”
Last couple of questions for fun. The College Football Playoff is set. Of the four teams, which two do you think will be in the championship game?
“LSU and Ohio State.”
Care to pick which team will be national champs?
“LSU.”
Austin, thanks for your time today and good luck with your offseason workouts along with basketball and track.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Myers family; Austin Myers rolling out (2019)