Interview: 2022 California LB Bishop Blakely Showcasing Versatility in Front of College Coaches
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Versatility at linebacker is a must in the modern era of football, and Upland rising talent Bishop Blakely has it. The 6-1, 230-pounder, can take on the run on the inside or outside, pressure the quarterback from the edge, and can cover in a zone or one-on-one with a tight end, running back, or slot. During the Highlanders’ four-game 2020 California season, Blakely stuffed 20 plays with 10 solo stops, two tackles for a loss, and two QB hurries. A growing aspect to his overall show of athleticism, on offense he rushed five times for 13 yards and hauled in a 12-yard pass.
With his role on both sides of the ball set to expand during his senior campaign, Blakely is hitting the offseason with great determination. That determination has already started to shine at college camps as his recruiting process is making big strides.
Interview
Bishop, playing that outside backer in Upland’s defense this spring, how did the season go for you?
I had a good season, but I could have done better. I need to take out the hesitation in my game. Other than that, I did well. I was flying around and made more plays than my sophomore year.
What system were you guys executing and what were your responsibilities within the scheme?
We ran a 3-4, that is our base. I play outside linebacker in our base. Unless we have a tight end come down, I am off the ball. We blitz a lot and I cover; I am a strong safety rover type. In some of our defensive packages, I am in side. I move around a lot.
When the 2020 season wrapped, what did you feel were the strengths to your play on the field on defense?
My physicality; I like to hit people. My pass rush is another strength. I am good at getting past the tackles. During the offseason I worked on covering with Rharebreed. I am able to cover slot receivers no matter how big or fast.
You got some snaps on offense too; will we see more of you on that side of the ball this fall?
Yes, sir. I will have way more snaps on offense this year. Hopefully I will get some touchdowns.
Where all might you line up on offense?
Fullback, H-back, tight end and sometimes in the slot. I will have a lot more reps this. My plan is to never come off the field.
From a speed and strength position, how are you preparing this summer for your senior campaign?
I have been at Rharebreed every week. Coach Rob (Bourne) has a great program for me. I am slimming down and cutting up. Of course, we are running and lifting at Upland too.
When does summer ball begin with Upland?
I think in three weeks. We have a week off after school, around June 20th. We are doing spring ball now.
Oh wow. Not much of a break from season to spring ball and then summer ball.
Yes, sir.
What goals do you want to accomplish this summer before the 2021 schedule begins?
My goal is to slim down and get cut up. I want to pass the eye test a little more where coaches and players say, “dang, he’s ripped.” I am benching 280 now, I am trying to get to 315. I am close. I am feeling stronger and getting faster. College coaches want those fast players that can do anything on the field.
Are you going to any college camps this summer?
I am signed up for all the Redlands camp. I was at a great one on Thursday; no balls caught on me. I am going to Yale on July 5 with a visit and I have a Columbia camp that weekend too. I am going to UNLV on July 16.
Tell me about the Redlands camp on Thursday. Which schools were there?
It was a Colorado camp. Cal Poly, Oklahoma, Dixie State, San Diego State, University of San Diego (USD), and Sac State were there.
Tell me about the reps.
I had six one-on-one reps, three were covering the tight end in slot and the others were against running backs. I had four pass breakups and with the others I was in stride.
Did you have any contact with the college coaches at the camp?
Yes. Cal Poly and USD coaches followed me, Dixie State and Fresno State coaches talked to me at the camp. Sac State has been in communication with me (Coach Cherokee).
With the camp season heating up, which schools are showing interest?
The Ivy League schools, Yale and Columbia are on me heavy. Rice is showing a lot of love. They text every week. I like them a lot and appreciate the love they are showing. At the June 16th camp, they will be there.
Receiving the attention from the Ivy League schools, what is your cumulative GPA?
A 3.567.
Nice. Bishop, it was great catching up with you. Wishing you great success at all the college camps.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Blakely family; Bishop Blakely