Interview: 2023 Denham Springs TE Andrew Goodwin Ready to Make Noise Against Louisiana Teams
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
If past history coupled with the eye test and upcoming opportunities means anything, the big goals tight end/receiver Andrew Goodwin set for himself during his first varsity season with Denham Springs are attainable. The 6-3, 210-pound, talent was a do-everything hybrid on the field during the 2019 season playing that receiver/tight end/H-back role blowing past his peer group developing into an impact player. With fellow Class of 2023 talent, quarterback Reese Mooney, delivering him the rock, a 600-yard 10-touchdown season is a great way to make some noise across the state of Louisiana while further catching the eyes of college scouts.
In an RNG first interview, Goodwin took time out from the Yellowjackets practices for an update on his workouts and outlook on the 2020 season.
Interview
Andrew, throughout your freshman season you were used in a multitude of roles as that hybrid H-back/tight end and you even got some carries out of the fullback role. You’d be a big back even at the high school level, what was that like last year getting to put the fear of God into the opposition coming out of the backfield?
It was fun. I had the chance to hit people when they were not looking and hitting while blocking. No one knew I was getting the ball, I as catching them off-guard running the ball. My receiver and offensive linemen were blocking for me, making it easier for me. It was very fast-paced season.
As a receiving threat, where all were you lining up within the offense and what were some of the routes you were running?
I’d line up at “3” and in the slot, or “2” in trips. I’d run corners, posts, digs, drags, small routes and medium routes.
What was the offensive style for the Yellowjackets last season?
We ran a Spread/RPO.
How will you be utilized within the Yellowjackets scheme this season?
This season I will be on the hip of the offensive tackle or out wide as a big receiving threat and as a big blocker.
As a receiving threat, what have you been working on over the spring and summer months?
This summer I have been working on my speed and agility heavily. I am working on putting more character into my routes. I have been working on my hands as well.
What have you been doing throughout the offseason to physically prepare for the grind going up against Louisiana varsity talent?
Going heavy-heavy in the weight room doing deadlifts, power cleans, bench, squats, and RDO. I’ve been doing heavy lifts like that.
Taking that next step in level of competition, even against your own teammates, how have you had to adapt to the differences from freshman ball to 5A Louisiana varsity?
It is a big difference. Playing freshman ball, I was bigger than everyone. I could control what I wanted to control. In 5A ball, I am playing against 17 and 18-year-olds, it is a big difference. The speed and strength of the game increases, especially the increases in speed. Everything is much faster in pace. All the coaches expect you to know what you are doing, when to do it, and why you are doing what you are doing.
The Yellowjackets are set to kickoff the 2020 season in Week 1 against Dutchtown on Aug. 27. What will that moment be like for you taking the field for the first time as a varsity player?
Our season has been pushed back to start on Oct. 9th now. For me, it will be exciting. I will be excited to step on the field and play. I’ve been preparing for that moment since we got out of school last year.
What goals have you set for yourself for the upcoming season?
Based on what I did last year, I want 10-plus touchdowns and 600 receiving yards. I don’t know if I will get carries this season, so I am targeting my receiving yards this year.
Andrew, I hope you reach those goals this season. Thanks for your time today and keep up all the hard work.
Thank you.
Photo credit: BMB Sports/Goodwin family; Andrew Goodwin