Interview: 2022 California QB Nathan Kornely Impressed in Breakout Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The pigskin was coming out hot at Villa Park High School during the 2020 season this spring with Nathan Kornely (6-1, 194) delivering on target. The Class of 2022 quarterback was impressive throughout the Spartans’ six-game schedule averaging 293 yards per game passing while completing 72 percent of his attempts. The stat line was filled in with 1,756 yards in the air with 19 touchdowns accounted for and 107 yards on the ground off 23 totes. With the late bump in recruiting for the true student-athlete, 3.8 cumulative GPA, due to the start of the season, college programs are just now finding the rising California talent.
In a first RNG interview, Kornely covers ground on his big junior run with a look at his offseason workouts and potential summer visits.
Interview
Nathan, watching film on you, I was impressed with the poise and command you have on the field. Come game time, what is your mindset?
My mindset is pretty relaxed. I have trust in my offensive line and receivers, and the game plan. The hours through the week preparing, I feel like I know everything the other team will do which makes me relaxed.
What offense were the Spartans running during the 2020 season?
We started of more of a pro-style, but we had trouble and then moved to a Spread. Week 2 through 6, we more of a Spread.
When you were dropping back, what defenses and coverages were you seeing?
I was seeing Cover 4 and 2. Towards the end I was seeing Cover 0 with them bringing six to seven playing man across the board.
That is a credit to you in the pocket picking teams apart. What were some of the routes the receivers were running within the scheme?
Out routes, post-curls, slants, and five-yard hitches; short stuff to get the ball out to the receivers so they can be athletes. We did some digs, 10- and 15-yard outs, curls, and post curls.
Your poise and knowledge of the offense comes through on your film, what do you feel are some of the other strengths to your game from a cerebral standpoint?
From a mental standpoint, my IQ and I know our offense inside and out. When it gets into the game, I know all my reads. The game plan, our coaches do a great job through the week setting us up to succeed. After hours of film study and breaking down the other team makes it easy for us.
As a passing quarterback, strictly on fundamentals and abilities, what do you feel are your strengths?
My arm strength is pretty good, I have a strong arm, good accuracy. My biggest skill displayed this year was extending plays with my legs but looking down field finding my receivers.
That certainly comes through on film. The team wrapped the 2020 season on Friday with a 35-21 win over Yorba Linda. After the season turned in, what will you work on with your game this offseason?
My biggest goals are to get faster and stronger and dial in on my mechanics going into my senior year. Another thing is working on the chemistry with the underclassmen, that will help this year. I will keep working with my guys to get that CIF championship.
Looking ahead, are there any camps you may go to this spring or summer?
I am waiting to see all the college camps, the dates, and how I can fit in with my schedule. I will be attending two to three this offseason.
Let’s close on recruiting. Which programs are showing interest?
Utah is showing interest, West Virginia State, Yale, and Montana State.
This summer, are there any visits you may take?
Yes, I want to visit Montana State, Montana, and maybe San Jose State and Fresno State.
Nathan, it was great putting the game film to the player today. I appreciate your time and wish you success this season preparing for a run at the CIF championship.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Kornely family; Nathan Kornely