Interview: 3-Star 2021 Folsom CB Kaleb Higgins Talks Visits and Playoffs
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The Folsom area in California seemingly always has standout talent that produces great teams with players matriculating onto the next level with high-achieving programs. Another is on his way to keep the legacy alive in Kaleb Higgins. The 6-2, 175-pound, Class of 2021 corner is tall, long, and fast proving to be a match-up nightmare for short and tall receivers. The three-star recruit has stockpiled 21 tackles on the season, 15 solo, with three tackles for a loss, a pick, blocked a punt, and jarred loose the pigskin twice. That action on the gridiron has attracted offers from Baylor, Boston College, California, and Texas A&M.
The Bulldogs (9-1) are ready to put their stamp on the 2019 season against Division I California competition taking on Edison (9-1) Friday night. For an update on Higgins season, his recruitment, and a preview of the playoff game, we sat down for a one-on-one.
Interview
Kaleb, the Bulldogs closed the season out strong with eight consecutive wins, and many in blowout fashion. How is the team looking heading into the playoffs?
“We are looking really good and we are healthy. The JV guys were pulled up, our backups are looking good. Our starters are coming together and we are looking good. We are doing our thing.”
The offense has been on fire tearing apart defenses and the Bulldogs’ defense has been holding down the opposition. With the offense doing so well, how has the defense come together knowing they will be back out there in a minute after a quick score?
“It is our mindset. We can pick ourselves up quickly no matter what is going on. Knowing the offense has our back, our mindset is right on the field.”
What is the base defense for you guys?
“4-3 in a Cover 4 most of the time. I like it. I can show off what I am good at in that defense.”
In a Cover 4, what are you good at as a corner?
“Press coverage. I am really good at press coverage no matter a tall or short receiver. I can beat my man. My press is on point. I do have things to work on, like coming in and out of breaks faster. I am a little hesitant at times in my breaks.”
Which other coverages are you guys executing?
“We run Cover 4, Cover 3, and man coverage.”
Of them all, which is your favorite?
“I like Cover 4 and man. In Cover 3, I have good field vision, but that is not my strong suit as in man or Cover 4.”
On the field, where are you showing the biggest improvements?
“The biggest improvement has been my tackling. I have 15 solo tackles this season. Before the season, I was insecure about my tackling. In our first game, I got some tackles early and that got me going.”
Of all the games played this season, which has been your top performance?
“The Grant game was my best. That game was their senior night. They had high energy which increased my energy. I was more aggressive. I was all over the field getting pass breakups and tackles for a loss in that game.”
Recruiting interest has to be rolling for you now. Which schools are in contact but have not offered yet?
“Northwestern – they are trying to get me out there for a visit. I missed the flight for the Iowa game. Stanford is showing interest as well.”
How many offers have you earned?
“Four.”
Have you visited any programs this fall?
“Yes. I got to go on some Stanford game day visits and I have been to Cal.”
How many times have you been to Stanford?
“I have visited them three times this season. My brother (WR – Elijah Higgins) is on the field; it is a family event when I visit.”
Since you have visited so many times, how have the visits to Palo Alto gone?
“Good. Everything is really good when I visit Stanford. Once I went to Stanford when it was not on a game day, it was nice to get a feel for the environment separate from a game day atmosphere.”
And the Cal visit?
“Cal was great. Good coaches there and great people.”
Back to football. You guys get Edison (9-1) on Friday. What are you expecting from their offense?
“They are a heavy run team with No. 3 (Raleek Brown). He likes to run using cutbacks. Containing him is the focus. Their passing game, we will shut that down easily.”
Last question. What do you love about playing football?
“The comradery. I moved to California not knowing anyone, then I met a whole group of people I now love and trust. We are fighting for one another and the love on the field, it is crazy.”
Kaleb, thanks for your time today and good luck to you and the Bulldogs in your march through the playoffs this year.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Higgins family; Kaleb Higgins at Stanford and preseason (2019)