Interview: 3-Star 2020 CB/FS Justin Livingston Updates Summer Workouts
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After a breakout sophomore season, California quarterbacks thought it best to not test Class of 2020 cornerback/free safety Justin Livingston. The three-star recruit has put in the time and work on his craft, and it is showing on the field.
The 2017 season for Livingston was lights out coming up with 82 tackles while breaking up nine passes with seven picks. He even chipped in on offense with two receptions for 28 yards and a score. When the 6-0, 185-pound, athlete took the field during his junior campaign, offenses stayed away from the rising Paramount High School star seeing his stats drop but not his effectiveness or talents in the Pirates secondary. Through it all, Livingston still posted a stat line of 49 stops, 30 solo, with one tackle for a loss, one pick, one pass broken up, and one fumble recovery. His role on offense was bumped up a notch pulling in six for 128 yards with two trips into the end zone.
With offers on the table from Iowa State, Northern Arizona, and San Jose State and spring ball turning into summer workouts, it was time for a catch-up interview with Mr. Livingston.
*Click link for Jan. 30, 2019, RNG interview with Justin Livingston
Interview
Justin, how did spring ball with the team go?
“It was short but great. We got some new players in – we are coming together as a team.”
What did the team focus on during the spring sessions?
“We worked on some new offensive plays and new coverages. We were working on getting everyone in their spot.”
What did you focus on at corner this spring?
“I worked on my zone and man coverage, my stance, my technique, my jam, and my footwork.”
With all that you have been working on, where are you seeing the progress in your game?
“I am definitely seeing it in my speed, my footwork, my hips, and pressing.”
Are you taking on a bigger role at receiver this year?
“Everything will be the same. I will be playing corner this year more than safety, but it will be about the same on offense. When coach needs me on offense, I will be there.”
What kind of work have you been doing separate from team workouts and practices?
“I have just focused on playing corner and playing some safety – getting ready for the season.”
Did you attend any camps this summer?
“Yes, sir. I went to two USC camps.”
Overall, how was your USC camp performance?
“The camp went great. There was a lot of great competition out there. The coaches taught me their technique and how they line up their defensive backs. I liked it.”
You have the three offers, which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Arizona, Arizona State, Oregon State, Wyoming, Hawaii, UNLV, Kansas State, Cal, Utah, and San Diego State.”
Nice. Are you taking any visits this summer or have some you are looking at for the fall?
“Not yet, but I am working on setting some.”
How did the school year end up?
“It went great. I finished with a 3.0.”
What is your cumulative GPA now?
“My cumulative is also a 3.0.”
Last question. Are the Pirates competing at any scholastic 7v7 tournaments this summer?
“Yes, sir. We are attending a Mission Viejo 7v7 tournament. I am very excited about that one.”
Good luck with the upcoming 7v7 tournaments and with your workouts. Thanks for your time today, Justin.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Livingston family; Justin Livingston at Stanford