Interview: 4-Star 2021 DE Quintin Somerville Talks Recruiting and Previews LSU Visit
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
It is hard to not get excited about the play of Saguaro High School defensive end/lineman Quintin Somerville. Somerville cracked the Sabercats roster as a freshman showing he had potential for something amazing on the field. He backed that notion up in 2018 with 44 stops, 16 tackles for a loss, five sacks, and eight quarterback hurries helping his squad to a 4A Arizona championship (13-1). The 2019 season is much of the same, Somerville using his athleticism, strength, and growing technique to dominate the opposition, except he is doing it up and down the defensive line and putting in part-time work on offense at tight end.
The monster year for the 6-3, 240-pound, four-star recruit continues with 40 total tackles, 20.5 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, and a forced fumble. His play on the field has brought in 10 offers spanning the Pac-12, SEC, and Big Ten. Numerous visits have already been taken with one coming up this weekend to Baton Rouge and a return visit to Ann Arbor on Nov. 30 for the Ohio State showdown.
Time for an RNG catch-up interview.
Interview
Quinton, the Saguaro offense has been humming along this season putting up monster numbers averaging 47 points per game. What is working so well for that side of the ball this season?
“We are running the ball. When we played (5-star CB) Kelee Ringo and (3-star LB) Will Shaffer (ASU), we got a boost of energy after our running back was injured. When No. 7 (Ringo) touches the ball, it is for six.”
Not to be outdone, you guys on defense have been more than doing your part clamping down for a scoring average at 11 points per contest. What is working for you guys on that side of the ball?
“It is our communication. When everyone knows their job, they are executing at a high level. When we are having fun, no one can touch us.”
You are one of the team leaders in tackles this season credited with 40. What have you been doing this season better than a year ago?
“Reading my keys. Last year I was playing loose, I was just playing football to play. I am keyed up on the little things now. Reading my keys has helped me a lot this season. I spent all summer working on my get off, my training has helped a lot with that.”
How are you being used within the scheme, and what is your role?
“I play everywhere on the defensive line, end, 3-tech and nose.”
What are offenses doing to scheme against you?
“They are calling out my name, I can hear them making sure they know where I am lining up. They are keying on me. I am getting a lot of double-teams on me and a lot of plays running the other way.”
The coaches are still using you some on offense with a 4-yard touchdown reception. How does your rotation on offense work?
“The coaches have me come in on some special packages – the sugar huddle, an extra package, or if we want to go jumbo to run the ball down their throats. If our tight end is tired, I am will come in so he can get a breather. I am a utility guy on offense. Whatever my team needs me to do, I will do it.”
Of the seven games played, which one has been you best and why do you consider that to be your top performance?
“The Chaparral has been my best (won 38-24). I had two sacks in that game. There was something about that game that was special. I was being a vocal leader and getting us to rally. It was a special game.”
Going into recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“Washington is showing a lot of interest, Florida State, Washington State, USC, and Oregon State is showing a lot of interest as well. Those are the teams that I can remember off the top of my head right now.”
No worries. How many offers are you holding?
“I have 10 offers.”
Have you visited any schools from the offseason to this fall?
“Yes, sir. I went out to USC, UCLA, San Diego State, Arizona, Arizona State, Michigan, and Oklahoma.”
Oh wow. You have been busy. Tell me about the USC visit.
“It was special. Seeing all that they have there and their football history, that was cool. They are bringing a culture back from the past and they want special players to be a part of it.”
Michigan had to be a fun visit. How did that go?
“Michigan is a very special place. Seeing the coaches again and talking to Coach (Shaun) Nua (DL), my brother has a great relationship with him too. The culture at Michigan is special, and they have the Big House. I cannot wait to get back out there for another visit.”
And the Oklahoma trip, how did that go?
“It was a special visit for me and my family. Oklahoma is my dad’s favorite school since he was a little kid. Coach (Calvin) Thibodeaux is great. That is a special place.”
You mentioned the possibility about going back to Michigan, which schools are you planning on seeing in the near future?
“I am going to LSU this Friday for the Florida. I am going back to Michigan for the Ohio State game.”
The Florida vs. LSU game will be a great game to see. What has you excited about visiting Baton Rouge?
“Oh my gosh. I have been talking to their coaches a bunch leading up to this game. I am excited to meet the coaching staff. They are a school I am considering. I cannot wait to see the culture at LSU.”
Making the return trip back to Michigan, what do you want to see the second time around?
“The family that they have there is great. Seeing all the coaches again, I am excited to regroup with them.”
Closing out with football. The team squares off against Marcos de Niza (4-2) on Oct. 18. What kind of game are you expecting against the Padres in a 4A Desert Sky showdown?
“Their play is solid this season. We will have to play to the best of our abilities. I am confident we will come out with a victory.”
Quintin, it is always great covering ground with you. Thanks for your time today and good luck with your visit to LSU.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Somerville family; Quintin Somerville at ASU (2019)