Interview: 2022 Arkansas WR Luke Brewer Talks Prolific Season and Greenwood State Championship
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After all the hard work put into a season, there is nothing better than walking off the gridiron knowing you did all you could do to help achieve the ultimate team goal. When Class of 2022 receiver Luke Brewer saw triple zeroes on the scoreboard with Greenwood High School capturing a 6A Arkansas state title after topping Lake Hamilton 49-24, his first team All-State worthy performance was a big reason for the perfect campaign.
Over the course of the Bulldogs’ 14-0 run, Brewer gave fits to opposing defensive coordinators knowing they had to scheme against his playmaking abilities that opened up opportunities across the field. Brewer worked in 64 receptions for 1,127 yards with 13 trips into the end zone. As postseason honors trickle out, in addition to being a state champion the 6-1, 175-pound, receiver can add 6A West All-Conference to his growing resume of accomplishments.
Beyond the gridiron, Brewer plays centerfield for the Bulldogs baseball team while carrying a 3.2 cumulative GPA. The complete package of student-athlete is gaining recruiting attention with teams like Pitt State being among the first to take notice.
In an RNG first-look interview, Brewer answers questions about the championship season and his growth as one of the Natural State’s best receivers.
Interview
Luke, there is no other way to put it but you had an absolutely prolific season with Greenwood. What was working for you allowing for the 1,100-yard 13-TD season?
Honestly, I was just doing my job. Everyone came asking me how many touchdowns or yards I’d have in a game. I’d tell them I am just playing my game and doing what I can.
What offense do the Bulldogs run?
We run a Spread offense.
Before we get into your talents as a receiving threat, you like to get after defensive backs with your blocking. How did that part of your game become a big asset for Greenwood during the 2020 season?
Last year, I was super small and tiny. Over the offseason I put on 20 pounds and got more aggressive. My blocking on the edge helped our offense, especially with our running back who likes to get on the edge and run.
The offense was laying it on 6A defenses averaging 43 points an outing. How did your offensive coordinator get the rock into your hands allowing you to make impact plays?
Most of the time I was running deep, out and up to fool the defenders, or a fade. My coach, he knows my speed and that I can get behind defenders. Screens, we did that a lot too.
In which game did you turn in your best performance?
Definitely, the championship game.
What stood out to you in that one over all the others?
I ran great routes, I had my best route running game of the season, and I was blocking great for everyone.
When it came time to make that championship run in the playoffs, how did you step up your game?
I focused on my job. In one of the playoff games, I only had one catch but I blocked my butt off, got two pancakes, and opened up holes for my running back.
In the fourth quarter when it became clear you guys were going to take down Lake Hamilton for the state championship (won 49-24), what was that moment like for you knowing you achieved the ultimate team goal?
It was really a great feeling knowing what I had done for the seniors. It wasn’t about me, but the win was for them.
Which areas of your game showed the biggest improvements from your sophomore to end of junior run?
In the first game, no one knew who I was, I had two touchdowns and five receptions for 75 yards. All of my game improved. From gaining weight, getting faster and stronger, becoming a better route runner, and I was going up and making plays too.
The offseason began at the end of November, what will you focus on with your skills preparing for your senior year?
I just started working out again. Reaching 185 pounds is the main goal. I think that is my problem. I am fast, and I want to keep the speed, but I feel that I am seen as underweight.
Luke, it was great getting time in with you today. Again, congratulations on the fantastic 2020 season and good luck with your offseason workouts until we talk again.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Brewer family; Luke Brewer