Interview: 3-Star 2021 Alabama RB Dylan Peterson Talks Tulane and Previews Louisville Visit
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Every year the state of Alabama turns out fantastic high school football talent that makes a major impact at the collegiate level. Another in the long line of talented next level players ascending up the recruiting ranks is 3-star running back Dylan Peterson. The 6-1, 210-pound, bruising back with speed picked up 538 yards off 83 totes with eight scores in as many games last season for Pelham High School. The list of college programs interested in Peterson continues to rise as each coaching staff scouts his talents seeing a future play-maker they could add to their roster as part of the 2021 class.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of the Panthers standout players covering his season, recruiting process, and unofficial visits.
Interview
Dylan, after a great showing during the 2018 season, what were some of the key things you worked on over the offseason to prepare for the 2019 schedule?
“The thing I worked on over the offseason was mainly my hands. I had issues catching the pitch at times with sweaty hands, everything else was pretty solid.”
Eight games into the season, where are you showing the biggest improvements after all the hard work?
“My biggest improvement is my power in my legs. In our Week 1 game against Calera, I had a nice truck on a guy going into the end zone.”
What style of offense are the Panthers running this season?
“We are an option offense. The quarterback leads the play to the defensive end and then makes the decision on what to do with the ball.”
In which ways are the coaches getting you the ball within the scheme?
“The coaches are getting me the ball on inside, outside, and counter plays. When the guard pulls, I follow him. We are running 12’s and 13’s straight up and 38’s and 39’s stretching it to the outside. I read the blocks and do the best I can.”
Looking at all of it, the workouts, practices, and games, what do you feel are the strengths to your game now?
“My power and I am keeping myself low on contact. Those are the two biggest strengths to my game, and my yards after contact.”
What is the best 40-yard dash time you’ve put out there?
“At a Mississippi State camp, I ran a 4.58.”
Nice. Going in that direction, which schools are showing recruiting interest?
“Louisville, UAB, Troy, Missouri, Notre Dame, South Alabama, Duke, Virginia Tech, Kentucky, and Florida.”
That’s great. Have you had a chance to take any visits this fall?
“Yes, sir. I visited Tulane last week and I am going to Louisville this week. I have visits set up for the next three weeks to Memphis and Florida. I may be going to Notre Dame and South Alabama soon, but nothing is set yet.”
How did the Tulane trip go?
“It was good. I enjoyed it. They have a great atmosphere at Tulane. The boat horn they use to get the crowd going on third downs was great. It was nice down there.”
Heading to Louisville this weekend is exciting. What has you pumped about the trip?
“I went to a Kentucky (Wildcats) camp over the summer, I always wanted to go to Louisville. They have been showing me love. I can’t wait to meet Coach (Scott) Satterfield.”
Closing out going back to football. The team is on a two-game win streak after taking down Carver and Jackson-Olin. How did you guys look in the victories?
“We looked strong. Our offensive line played well. We put up good numbers and our defense shut them down when needed. They have been great all-around team wins. The special teams came up big in those games as well.”
The next one is a road game to Northridge (1-6). What kind of defense are you squaring off against in Tuscaloosa?
“Coach said it does not matter who we play if we do what we do.”
Enough said. Dylan, I appreciate your time today and wish you and the team success going forward.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Peterson family; Dylan Peterson at Alabama (camp) and Tulane (visit)