Interview: 3-Star 2021 La Habra CB Bryce Phillips Talks Mixing It Up with Calabasas’ 4-Stars
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
For a corner, playing on the opposite side of the field of a top four-star cornerback is never easy, even if one is rated as a three-star talent themselves. But that is life for Class of 2021 talent Bryce Phillips at La Habra High School (2-2). Quarterbacks who test four-star corner Clark Phillips (Ohio State) quickly learn that is a bad idea and now, after receiving a gauntlet of opportunities with quarterbacks trying to go the other way, younger brother Bryce is showing them what’s what. Bryce (5-11, 168) has worked his way into being a feared defensive back in Southern California, and is coming off his biggest test of the season where he matched forces with a pair of four-star receivers in Calabasas’ Johnny Wilson (Oregon) and Jermaine Burton (LSU).
For an update on Bryce’s season to date and for the inside scoop on matching talents with Burton and Wilson, it was time for an RNG catch-up interview with the Highlander’s three-star recruit.
*Click link for July 28, 2019, RNG interview with Bryce Phillips
Interview
Bryce, how has the 2019 season started out for you on the field?
“It has gone well. I am playing solidly. I had not given up a deep ball until Friday. But I’ve gotten a pick and 10 to 15 tackles. Everything is going really well.”
The Highlanders have not shied away from playing top California teams in non-conference action. How did you prepare for the talent you were to face over the summer?
“I worked on my man coverage. I did a lot of zone in 7v7, press, off man, and playing catch man in 7v7. I worked on the collision with the dude at 7 yards as well. I worked on my speed and I got way bigger.”
After the tests you’ve taken on, where are you seeing the biggest improvements?
“I am getting more confident. I am better in my backpedal and I am reading things quicker.”
I just saw you squaring off against a pair of four-star receivers in Johnny Wilson and Jermaine Burton. How did the game go for you personally?
“It was a tough match-up; they are two great receivers. I played well. I gave up a couple of catches, but I got a pick. I made plays and gave up plays, but I got better.”
You go back out on the road again to face Diamond Ranch this week. What kind of showdown are you expecting against the Panthers?
“They will pass a lot. I am guessing we will see screens and stuff like that. They are not going to go deep. I expect some trick plays too.”
I know you have an offer from Florida Atlantic, as the season gets going which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Boise State, UCLA, Fresno State, Nebraska, Nevada, San Diego State, and Penn State.”
Did you take any visits this offseason?
“Yes. I went to Arizona with my brother, Cal, and UCLA.”
Are you planning on taking any trips coming up?
“Yes. I am planning on going to Boise State, definitely, San Diego State, UCLA, and Penn State.”
Bryce, it was great catching up with you today and seeing you in action on Friday. Thanks for your time and good luck on Friday against Diamond Ranch.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: RNG; Bryce Phillips
Photo credit: Phillips family; Bryce Phillips pick vs. Calabasas (2019)