Interview: 3-Star 2019 Missouri OL Marquise Simmons is of the Ground and Pound Nature

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Few high school offensive linemen have the game that translates to the next level the way Marquise Simmons’ does. After playing right tackle for DeSmet Jesuit High School, Simmons can do a little bit of everything in the trenches from down blocking, pass-pro, and even pulls into the interior blowing open holes for his running backs against Class 6 Missouri competition. The hard work in the box and forming the pocket for the 6-3.5, 320-pound, road-grader has led to seven offers being extended from Iowa State, Kansas, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, New Mexico, Texas State, Tennessee-Martin, and Syracuse with other Division I programs looking in as National Signing Day nears.

To learn more about one of St. Louis’ best Class of 2019 talents, I went one-on-one with the three-star recruit getting his technique and skills down with an overview on all his recruiting prospects.

Interview

Marquise, the Spartans were one of Missouri’s top teams during the 2018 season with a three-game run into the playoffs. The offense was high-powered scoring 36 points per game. What was clicking for you guys throughout the season allowing the squad to be so productive?

“Our running backs. We were able to make holes for them, but if they weren’t there they made them. The running backs, they opened up our passing game. It made it a lot easier to pass the ball and score.”

You played right tackle during your senior year, where else along the line have you played during your career?

“I played at right guard for three games as well.”

Of all the big games you played in during your senior year, which game was your best?

“Let me think about that one… my Chaminade or Cape (Girardeau) game (Central).”

Why do either one of those games rank among your best?

“My run blocking was better than normal. They were one of those games where the passing game wasn’t working the way we wanted so we ran a lot.”

Throughout the season, how did your run blocking improve?

“I got healthier; I was not 100 percent starting off the season. By the time the playoffs came, I was 100 percent. I was about 60 percent most of the season. One thing I worked hard on all four years was getting to the linebacker. I did a pretty good job with that this year. I was squaring up and keeping my hands inside.”

What about with your pass blocking, how did that part of your game get better?

“Nothing but footwork. I worked on that every year and in every practice.”

Which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered yet?

“I am receiving interest from Ball State, Kansas State, Mizzou, Indiana, Western Kentucky, and a few more that I can think of off the top of my head right now.”

How many offers do you have now?

“I have seven offers.”

Have you visited any schools during the season?

“Yes, sir. I took three unofficial official visits to Western Kentucky, Indiana, and Kansas.”

How did the Indiana visit go?

“It went well. I did not get too much time to talk to the coaches, because we showed up late. But when I did, it was a good connection with the staff.”

What about Kansas, how did that go?

“I sat down and talked to the coaches during that visit. I got a good insight on the coaches there.”

What are college coaches telling you they like about your talents?

“They like my footwork for a guy my size and for a guy that is not going to play tackle. They like my pass-pro.”

What are you working on this offseason?

“With my workouts I am focused on getting stronger and my footwork so I can rely on my technique when I am tired in games.”

I know it has been a while since you maxed out in the weight room, but do you remember any of the numbers you put up?

“The last time I did a one-rep max for bench was 330 and my squat was 445.”

Nice. Going into the classroom here. Do you have a cumulative GPA and test score you don’t mind sharing?

“My GPA is 3.2 and I scored a 19 on the ACT.”

Fantastic. Marquise, it was great learning more about your talents today. Good luck with your offseason workouts and any visits you may take.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: Simmons family; Marquise Simmons at Indiana