Interview: 2023 Vermilion JUCO DL Jace Thompson Off to an Impressive Start
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Through his first two career college games at Vermilion Community College, freshman defensive lineman Jace Thompson has 20 tackles and three quarterback pressures helping the Ironmen to a 1-1 start. With the pressure generated and ability to stop opposing defenses on the ground, Thompson is setting himself up for success along the recruiting trail.
Thompson joined the Ironmen after graduating from Warroad High School in Warroad, Minn. Now the 6’2”, 230-pound, big man is making plays against JUCO competition in the trenches using his tremendous strength and footwork on the interior and exterior. Game film shows Thompson playing with great intensity and physicality.
It will be exciting to watch this local Minnesota product continue to make plays and achieve his goals for Vermilion during the rest of the season.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Jace to talk about his adjustments to college football and his goals for the rest of his freshman season.
Interview
Jace, what are your strengths on the football season?
I lead by example. I might not be the most verbal guy but I always give 100 percent.
What has been the biggest adjustment between high school football and the college level?
Playing with new teammates and coaches, but I adjusted well and we are one big family.
What is your relationship like with the Vermilion coaching staff?
I trust them and go to them about anything.
What did you work on the most in camp leading up to the season?
My reads, speed, and my hands.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
My max bench is 350, my max squat is 330, and my max deadlift is 450.
What kind of defense does Vermilion?
We run a 4-2-5.
How do your skills fit into this defensive scheme?
They fit well, but there is always room for improvement.
What do you like most about playing on the defensive line?
Putting pressure on the opposing offense and we always help each other.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Aaron Donald, J.J. Watt, and Joey Bosa.
What game left on the schedule are you most looking forward too?
The game against Rochester.
What are your goals for the rest of the season?
Rack up more tackles and sacks and keep winning.
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
Philippians 4:13.
Thank you for your time and good luck the rest of the season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Vermilion JUCO/Thompson family; Jace Thompson