Interview: 4-Star 2021 Texas DE Landyn Watson Talks LSU Visits and Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When facing Hutto High School, squaring off against defensive end Landyn Watson is not a fun way for opposing Texas 5A offensive players to spend a Friday night. The now 6-3, 228-pound, defender is a pigskin seeking talent ready to knock anyone and everyone on their butt who gets in the way. The Hippos are 6-1 on the season with their four-star end producing 13 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and two sacks through stats posted on the team’s first three outings. Collegiate programs like the action they are seeing from Watson with 15 reported offers going out. But for 14 teams, that can only be wishful thinking with the Hutto area standout verbally committing to LSU on July 29.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I lined up across Watson doing my best to keep up with him and all he has going on both on and off the field.
Interview
Landyn, the Hippos are off to a great season with a 6-1 record. The defense has been stout holding down squads to 17 points per game. What’s working for you guys leading to the tight defense?
“We have a lot of returning guys from last year. Our mentality is, we do not want to be a third-round team this year. Our practices are intense every day, that shows up on game days.”
What base are you running and where all are you lining up?
“We run a 3-4 defense. This year I have been playing on the defensive line at the 5-technique. Next year I am playing a stand-up outside linebacker/end role. I do both this year and will also do both next year.”
Before the season began, what were some of the things you focused on in your workouts?
“I wanted to work on my weight, get leaner and slimmer. I wanted to drop weight to move the way I wanted to move on the field. I worked on having fluid hips, dropping into coverage, and rushing the passer. A lot went into my training this offseason.”
After all the training, how are you seeing those efforts play out on the field?
“There is a lot of improvement on running to the ball, being more physical at point of attack, flying around the field and being more of a verbal leader. My block shedding, rushing the passer and pass rush moves have all gotten better. I am still working on coverage.”
At the snap of the ball, how are opposing offenses working against you?
“They don’t want to run to my side. I make my plays by trailing and staying home on reverses. I try not to do too much in over-pursuit, but I am flying to the ball.”
Which game this season has been your best and why is that your top performance?
“Our last game against Cedar Park was my best. I had six tackles, a sack, and scored a touchdown on offense as a tight end.”
Nice. Congrats.
“Thank you.”
Watson’s Offer Sheet: Baylor, Colorado, Houston, LSU, Michigan State, Notre Dame, Oklahoma State, SMU, TCU, Texas Tech, Toledo, UTSA, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech, and Washington
On July 29 you committed to LSU, how is that relationship growing with their coaching staff?
“It has been going well. I talk to Coach O (Ed Orgeron) and Coach Bill Johnson (DL) here and there.”
When did you last visit LSU?
“We came back from visiting LSU on Oct. 12. That was my most recent visit.”
That was the Florida game. How did that trip turn out?
“It was unbelievable, they pulled off the win. It was great to be back in Baton Rouge.”
Going forward, are there any upcoming LSU visits ahead?
“There is possibly one on Nov. 30 for the (Texas) A&M game. If not then, it will be after the season or in the spring.”
When you talk to other LSU recruits, what is your pitch on why they should head to Baton Rouge?
“I tell recruits to commit to LSU because you are playing on one of the biggest stages in college football, in a greatest conference, and it feels like home there. I am talking to defensive players so we can build a really good defense down there.”
Landyn, I appreciate your time today and wish you and the team success going forward.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Watson family; Landyn Watson at LSU