Interview: 2022 Tennessee OLB/DE Elijah Herring is Impressing SEC Coaches
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Speed on the edges and big guys in the trenches, that seems to be the prevailing theory on how to attack Spread offenses in the high school and collegiate levels. College programs seeking an edge rusher who can stuff the run, pressure the quarterback and drop back against the pass, the ones that have come across Class of 2022 Elijah Herring have either offered or are outwardly showing interest. The 6-2, 215-pound, rising star for Riverdale High School fits that mold as the hard-nosed defender with speed that creates chaos at the snap of the ball as proven against Tennessee 6A competition. Herring’s work has helped his Warriors squad to a 7-3 mark in 2019 and brought about four scholarship offers from Kentucky, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and Virginia Tech.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I got a chance to spend time with Herring getting inside the helmet with one of the fastest rising prospects in the Volunteer State.
Interview
Elijah, the 2019 regular season has come to a close with a 31-0 win over Coffee County Central. Looking back on the season, what are you most proud of both personally and with the team’s play?
“The way we showed people that we can compete against anyone. I am proud that we have each other’s back and I am proud of how we fought against every single team we played this season.”
Before the schedule began, what goals did you set for yourself?
“The goal was to have five sacks, 30 or more tackles, and a pick or pass breakup.”
Looking back, how did you do in accomplishing those goals? Did you do it?
“No, sir. I got over 30 tackles, but I am low on the sacks. I will get them in the playoffs.”
Looks like the Warriors are playing a 4-4 base defense. How are you being utilized at outside linebacker in the scheme?
“My job is to keep containment and help against the pass rush. Sometimes I drop back in zone and man coverage.”
You crash down with reckless abandon putting your body on the line. What are some of the other strengths to your game as a defender?
“My speed off the line, my explosiveness, and I can read plays really well. I can get in the backfield fast.”
Of the games played this season, which was your best?
“My best game was against Cookeville.”
Why is the Cookeville game at the top of the list?
“My coach told me I had 11 tackles in that game. We have a player award/MVP award for all three phases after each game, I won it for defense in that game.”
Awesome How do you feel your overall talents improved this season?
“My speed, footwork, and hands have gotten way better this season.”
Schools are finding you, how many offers do you have?
“Four.”
Which programs are showing interest?
“Notre Dame and North Carolina are showing interest.”
Have you had a chance to visit any programs yet?
“Yes, sir. I took one to Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and I tried to go to Kentucky but could not make it.”
Tell me about the Tennessee visit.
“It was great; I was there for the Georgia game. I talked to Coach (Garrett) Cox (QCA), Coach (Jeremy) Pruitt (HC), and their linebacker coaches, Coach (Chris) Rumph and Coach (Kevin) Sherrer.”
Seeing them live, what did you think of their defense?
“Their defense has gotten better throughout the season. They are very aggressive, I like that.”
And the Vanderbilt trip, how did that go?
“That was fun too. I met Coach (Jason) Tarver (DC) and Coach (Derek) Mason (HC); they were great. I was there for the Georgia game.”
Another Georgia game, nice. Last question. The team gets a very good Mount Juliet (6-4) team on Friday to start the playoffs. What in-game match-up are you looking at from the Golden Bears’ offense?
“They run a lot. We have watched film on them. They are aggressive at running the ball.”
Elijah, it was great getting time in with you today. I appreciate it and hope you guys have a great run in the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Herring family; Elijah Herring at Tennessee and Vanderbilt