Interview: 2023 RB Dane Reed Posting Big Season for Westlake High School
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There are a lot of expressions about the underdog prevailing that fit the play on the gridiron of Class of 2023 running back Dane Reed this season, but perhaps none fit as well as “don’t judge a book by its cover.” Reed has all the reasons to be overlooked by others, but is giving the world all the reasons to believe in him going forward.
Freshmen playing varsity football at just about any level is an achievement, especially in California going against Division I, II, and III competition. The schedule Westlake took on this season was daunting, but Reed rose to the challenge against the big-name Los Angeles area programs rushing 109 times for 631 yards with five scores while flexing his emerging all-purpose nature with seven receptions for 100 more yards and another trip into the end zone. Not bad for a team playing at least a classification above its status in most contests and by a freshman, a 5-8, 163-pound, freshman with wheels that is.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the surprise breakthrough talents in the Golden State during the 2019 season to learn more about his game, how he is actually running the pigskin within the offense and not for his life like most his age against guys three four years old, with a look at the team’s playoff match-up.
Interview
Dane, freshmen are not supposed to do what you are doing on the field. You have risen up having an amazing season out of the Warriors backfield. Entering the schedule, did you know you would be a workhorse back for the team?
“No, I did not know. The chance really came around about the third game of the season. Going into the season, I told myself if I got a chance in a game to run the ball, I was going to run it like that was my one shot. It has all worked out.”
When did you start to work into rotation?
“In our first game, in the second half I got some touches. I scored against Sierra Canyon; that was fun and a great experience. We have a junior running back who also plays linebacker (Gary Johnson); he is really good. I was playing behind him. Maybe around the fourth week I got the starting position.”
How did you prepare over the offseason for the work against top California varsity competition?
“I worked out every day; I had 5 a.m. workouts with my dad. I played 7v7, went to camps, and played with Formula 4 Speed (7v7). I ran track too.”
Playing 7v7 with Formula, how did that help you? And at which position were you playing with them?
“I was playing corner and I would jump in at slot for fun.”
How did those 7v7 reps with Formula 4 Speed help you?
“It helped a lot. I went against great receivers. I am also playing some corner this year if they need me. Playing with Formula 4 Speed helped me work on that. “
Amazing. All that preseason work at corner and slot and here you are tearing it up at running back. What offensive set are you guys running?
“We run a Spread with some two-back sets, but mostly we run a Spread.”
In which ways are you receiving the ball on designed run plays?
“We run a lot of pulling plays, counters, and a wrap with the guard pulling. We have some draw plays too. We run some stretch but not too much.”
You are also a threat out of the backfield in the passing game, tell me about that part of your game.
“I like utilizing my speed. If I get in the open-field I am dangerous. I like running seams and snake routes. Linebackers cannot guard me on those routes.”
From the jump of the interview, I put it out there that you have had an amazing season – my words. In your words, how has the season gone?
“It has been surprising for me; I was not expecting it. For my first year, I have done well, but I have a lot to work on going forward.”
Making that move to the varsity level had to come with a lot of adjustments. What all did you have to change with your approach and style to have an impact on offense?
“I had to stop bouncing plays outside and trust the line, even running straight down the middle. I had to get my fear out of my head about getting hit by linebackers.”
Which areas of your game have improved as a running back as the schedule has gone on?
“A lot has improved. We have been playing against a lot of great people, and that makes you better. I know I will get better with time. We get Grace Brethren again after losing (49-35) to them earlier this season. They are a tough team and well coached but I think we will sneak one out on Friday.”
This season, which game have been your best and why that game?
“The Mission Hills game was my best. I had two touchdowns and a lot of great runs.”
As mentioned, there is no rest for the weary. You guys face Grace Brethren (9-1) in the opening round of the playoffs. What kind of game are you looking at out of the backfield against the Lancers’ front seven?
“We have to keep it balanced. We did well passing against them last time. We have to move the chains with the run and work some passing in there. We have all seniors on the offensive line except for one sophomore – I am fighting for my brothers’ success before mine on Friday night.”
Dane, thank you for your time today and good luck against Grace Brethren.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Los Angeles Daily News: No. 26 Dane Reed (2019)
Photo credit: hudl.com; No. 26 Dane Reed locker room (2019)