Interview: 3-Star 2021 Nevada LB Zephaniah Maea is Having Big Season for Liberty
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When the 2019 high school football season ends, there will be about a dozen teams who are truly prepared for the playoffs based on the non-conference schedule played to start the year, and Nevada’s Liberty High School is one of those teams. The Patriots threw down against Chandler (AZ), Mililani (HI), St. John Bosco (CA), Centennial (CA), and Liberty (AZ). Within their state, the Las Vegas area squad has won four in a row led on defense by hard hitting three-star 2021 linebacker Zephaniah Maea. The 6-2, 220-pound, defender has been a fixture on the team’s defense since arriving from Hawaii a year ago putting an end to 56 plays with 3.5 tackles for a loss and three sacks. This year, Maea has thumped on 53 snaps of the ball with four tackles for a loss, three quarterback hurries and jarred loose a fumble in stats posted through eight of the squad’s nine games.
For insight on how Maea is tearing it up this season, we sat down after the Patriots took care of business on Thursday night.
Interview
Zephaniah, the Patriots have won four in a row with a defense that has given up just nine points over that span. What are you guys doing so well holding down other Nevada programs?
“It is the game plan, and about preparation. We have confidence in what we can do against the teams we are facing.”
What base set defense are you guys running?
“4-3.”
Within the scheme, where are you lining up and what are your responsibilities?
“I’m lining up inside linebacker and some at outside linebacker. I’m a run stopper and an outside container.”
In which ways are you seeing your game improve throughout the season?
“My flexibility, my movement, shedding blocks, and my field vision have all improved. Before, I was not able to shed blocks as well. I was a heavy hitter, but I was not moving around as well. Reading my keys has improved and so has my coverage.”
All players come across an obstacle when playing that is difficult but makes said player better in the long run for the experience. What is one thing that has been or was a challenge for you this year but has made you better?
“My pass coverage. I grew up in Hawaii. In Hawaii, we have a lot of run stoppers. In Vegas, it is more of a passing game on the field. That has improved for me over the last season since I have been here at Liberty.”
Of the games played, which was your top performance?
“Centennial Corona.”
Why is that tops?
“I had a 7-yard tackle for a loss, two total tackles for a loss, and a big hit against their four-star receiver, Gary Bryant.”
The team got after it on Thursday night against Basic winning 38-6. How did the game go?
“It went well. We made some simple mistakes, person fouls, but it will all will be taken care of.”
How well did you do in the game?
“I had a forced fumble, a sack, and a tackle for a loss.”
There is one game left in the regular season, what does the team have to do before getting back on the field with Coronado and on into the playoffs to make that run?
“We have to watch film, get better in weight room, compete in practice, and keep that bond tight.”
Closing out with recruiting. How many offers are you sitting on now?
“Six.”
Maea’s Offer Sheet: Hawaii, Nevada, New Mexico, UNLV, Utah, and Utah State
Which schools are showing the most interest?
“Of the schools that have offered, UNLV and Nevada. Boise State, Washington and Utah are showing interest but have not offered yet.”
Have you visited any schools yet?
“Yes, sir. I took one to UNLV and Washington.”
Tell me about the hometown visit.
“It went well. We ate, took pics, and I had a film session with their defensive coordinator.”
What about the Washington trip?
“It was good. It was a fast-paced visit. We got there, listened to a speech, watched a motivational video, and then camped.”
Looking ahead, are there any more visits coming up?
“Yes, sir. I may go to Arizona in a couple of weeks and Penn State and Utah in the offseason.”
Zephaniah, I appreciate your time today and wish you and the rest of the team success going through the playoffs.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Maea family; Zephaniah Maea