Interview: 3-Star 2019 JSerra QB Caden Bell Previews Clash Against Pinnacle
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Photo credit: Raymond Joyce Photography
Twitter: @RJPSports
JSerra Catholic has started the 2018 season out hot racing to a 3-0 record, thanks in large part to the play under center coming from three-star quarterback Caden Bell. The Lions are scorching California defenses at a pace of 40 points per game with the biggest test of their early season coming on Saturday against the No. 2 ranked team in Arizona, Pinnacle High School (Phoenix).
With the Lions jumping out to big early leads and the defense stuffing opposing offenses, Bell has not seen much action in the pocket during the second half of games this season. Thus far, he has connected on 23 passes for 318 yards with three scores and has moved the chains 60 yards down the field off eight totes with two other scores lighting up the board. Bell’s growth on the field as a newcomer to the Lions has been rapid changing from a spread attack with Servite last year to pro-style set with JSerra. The improvement in his game comes to the delight of the Columbia Lions coaching staff. The 6-0, 190-pound, field general committed to the Ivy League school on Aug. 9.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I got the inside scoop on Bell and the Lions’ early season success with a quick preview of the showdown against Pinnacle.
Interview
Caden, the Lions have jumped out to a 3-0 record this season averaging a blistering 40 points per game, what is working for you guys on offense allowing the team to be so productive?
“For the first three games we have had a balanced attack. Chris Street has run the ball well and we are moving the ball through the air. We have had some big punt and kick returns to get the offense up, to give us that spark on offense to go light up the scoreboard.”
What are some of the things you are doing well in the pocket this season compared to a year ago?
“This year, I have been working on staying in the pocket and making throws as I am getting hit. I have improved with my play action game, this is my first year under center. I have improved on waiting for windows to open up and delivering the ball at the right time.”
Of the three games played this season, which was the most challenging for you and how did that challenge help make you better?
“The game against Bishop Amat (won 21-20) was the most challenging. We went out to their place for that one. We got up early but they did not quit. Their fans and student question were crazy. Games like that will help us for the Trinity League games. That game woke our team up.”
Now the nicer question, of the three games, which was your best performance and what did you do well?
(Laughs) Probably the Corona del Mar game (won 49-7). I threw a couple of touchdowns in that game and I ran the ball well. We got up to a big lead early, I only played in first half. In different games I have done different things well. Against Corona del Mar, I threw well. Against Calabasas, I did both well – I ran the ball well and I feel like I had a good game throwing the ball. We are keeping defenses on their heels this year. They do not know if we will run or pass. It is nice to have a balanced offense.”
On Saturday, you guys get a tough Pinnacle (3-0) team ranked No. 44 in the nation, No. 2 in Arizona. What kind of game are you expecting from the Pioneers’ defense?
“I 100 percent expect them to play tough. Being in the Trinity League, you always have a target on your back playing non-conference games. I know Pinnacle is wanting to make a statement against us. They are wanting to beat a California team. A lot of people feel the best high school football is in California. If they can beat a California team, that means a lot to them.”
I can only imagine that the quarterback in you is pumped to square off against Spencer Rattler (Oklahoma commit), does this opportunity get you a little more fired up to play Pinnacle?
“I don’t know him well. I know he is a great quarterback and very talented. I am focused on their defense. I want to give my team the best opportunity to win.”
On Aug. 9, you verbally committed to Columbia; how is that relationship developing with the Lions’ coaching staff?
“Even before I committed I had a really good relationship with their coaching staff. The relationship is growing. They are always checking in with me and they have been supportive. I am growing that relationship with them even though they have been busy, and their season is about to get started.”
Are you actively recruiting any players to join you in New York?
“I have been talking to a few players that are local with offers from Columbia. We’ll see what goes on with them. I am seeing how it goes, not pushing too hard.”
When is your next visit to Columbia?
“I will possibly go to Columbia later in the season on an unofficial and take an official visit towards the end of the season as well.”
Last question. It is a tough one. Who do you have in the College Football Playoff Final Four?
“Oh. Let me see… Oklahoma, Alabama, Georgia, and Wisconsin.”
Two SEC teams in the playoff again. Interesting. Caden, as always, great catching up with you. I am looking forward to seeing you guys in action on Saturday.
“Thank you.”
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