Interview: 3-Star 2021 Washington OL William Reed Talks Recruiting and Tennessee Visit

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Standing out on a senior-laden team with multiple four- and three-star Class of 2020 recruits that won a Washington 3A state title a year ago is not easy, but here is William Reed (6-6, 260). The Class of 2021 right tackle is the only starting junior on Eastside Catholic High School’s offensive line helping push his team to the finish line of another championship season. His play on the field has brought in offers from Duke, Virginia Tech, and Washington State so far with schools across the country looking in wanting to learn more about the three-star recruit.

The Crusaders are 7-1 ready to wrap up their 2019 regular season on Friday against Gig Harbor. The rising talent has jumped in on the recruiting process taking multiple visits with a weekend trip to Tennessee watching the Volunteers take down UAB 30-7 in Neyland Stadium. To learn more about his growing skills and recruiting options, Reed and I sat down for an in-depth conversation.

Interview

William, the Crusaders are in line to defend the 3A Washington state title again in 2019. The offense has picked apart teams for 36 points on average. What are you guys doing so well as a unit leading to the high-scoring wins?

“We have a new QB from Hawaii, Lohgan Muasau. He has fit in well. A lot of our success is knowing each other. We are a seasoned offensive line. I have not given up any sacks, and I am the only junior on a line with all seniors. We have some of the best skill guys in the nation. All of it was an easy fit and we were ready to go.”

Beyond all the senior leadership, what are the strengths of the offensive line?

“I think we have a really strong pass blocking unit. You can see that on film. We are getting better at executing run blocks. Our pulling plays are big for us. On the outside and inside zone plays, we are getting better at those in practice and look to improve as we go into the playoffs.”

Within that unit, what is your role at right tackle?

“I try to do my best. It is tough to take a huge position of leadership with all our senior linemen; there are some other first-year starters on the line, but they are all still seniors. We are learning behind our seasoned seniors, behind guys like Jernias Tafia.”

The game footage shows you doing a lot of different things, like pulling from your tight tackle spot. How are you seeing your run blocking improve this season?

“I have gotten a lot faster, I have a lower pad level, and overall better aggression this season. Early in the season I did not look as much of an athlete as I am. That has gotten better.”

What about your pass-pro? How has that improved?

“My pass-pro is my biggest weapon. That has Washington State interested in me with their Air Raid offense. I worked on that all offseason and competed in 5v5 league tournaments. I have gotten better stopping the power rush as the season has gone on. My pad level is better and I have learned how to get lower overall and with my punches, throwing fake punches, and with my hand-placement.”

Was there an in-game match-up against an end or tackle that was a challenge for you this season?

“Yes. My biggest challenge was against (2020) 3-star defensive tackle Jalen Dixon from O’Dea (Seattle). I think he has five D-I offers. I did not give up a sack against him. I did pretty well in the run game against him too.”

How did that showdown help make you a better offensive lineman in the long run?

“A big part of that match-up was the mental toughness. That is a rivalry game that got chippy. I had to keep my cool from the extra talking and shoving. I kept my head on straight.”

Which game has been your best?

“My best game was against Garfield (Seattle). That was one of my most aggressive games, that and O’Dea. I was playing with my hair on fire. I did really well on pulling plays.”

With recruiting, how many offers do you have?

“Three.”

*Reed has four offers, offered by Tennessee after the release of this interview

Which schools are showing interest in your skills?

“On Friday, I am going to Cal; they are showing interest. UCLA, Nebraska, UDUB (Washington), and Georgia Tech are showing interest. I just came back from Tennessee and I have visited Virginia Tech.”

From the summer to now, which schools have you visited?

“I visited Virginia Tech shortly before my offer, and I have been to Oregon, WSU (Washington State), and UDUB.”

How did the Tennessee visit go?

“I was there for a game on Saturday against UAB. I like the tradition at Tennessee. The coaches treated me well. The stadium was huge and the fans were great.”

And Oregon, how did that visit go?

“That was great. The fans were electric and gave great support. They showed a lot of love to the recruits too. I like Eugene. Their facilities and gear are great. Oregon has a great program and they are doing well right now.”

Swinging back to Virginia Tech with them offering you. Tell me about that visit.

“That was an amazing experience. That game went into six overtimes (North Carolina). That was the best fan base I have seen by far. I was treated very well there. Coach (Beau) Davidson gave me a tour and walked me around. The hospitality blew me away. They were my first offer.”

The Cal visit was mentioned, are there any other planned visits coming up?

“Yes. I have Cal on Friday and Florida coming up along with Oregon State and Washington State.”

Busy man. What has you excited about visiting Cal this weekend?

“The academics are amazing at Cal. I like California schools. I don’t know too much else about the program right now. I’m wanting to learn more about their program during my visit.”

Odd ball question for you. What is one unique skill most people would be surprised to find out about you?

“I can speak Chinese. I have been taking Chinese for five years now. I’m far from fluent, but I like it. It is challenging to learn, but I have done well. I have received all A’s in high school in that class. My brother is taking it in college, so I have someone outside of school to talk to and learn from. It is challenging but I enjoy it a lot.”

What is your cumulative GPA?

“3.8.”

Last question. The regular season closes out with Gig Harbor (7-2). What are you expecting from the Tides’ defense on Friday?

“I know they will play hard this late into the season.”

William, it was fun learning more about you today. I appreciate your time and wish you and the Crusaders success in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Reed family; William Reed at Tennessee and Oregon