Interview: 5-Star 2021 Texas K/P Joe McFadden Covers Big 12 Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
No matter how dynamic the offense on the gridiron, and at any level, drives stall short of the end zone. What happens next can be the difference in a game-winning field goal or a punt that can flip the field pinning an opposing offense against their end zone changing the direction of the game. This is where special team players shine. One shinning for Carroll High School is five-star Class of 2021 kicker/punter Joe McFadden.
Although a junior in classification, McFadden is a grizzled Texas 6A veteran getting the call onto the Dragons varsity roster as a freshman. His breakout season came in 2018 when he nailed 7-of-10 field goals with a long of 43, 55-of-57 PATs, and carried a 40 yard per punt average on 27 boots. The Southlake area squad once again has a dynamic offense steamrolling the competition for 49 points per game on the way to a 7-0 record and No. 15 national ranking by MaxPreps. Along the way, the 5-11, 180-pound, talent has punted eight times for a 43 yard per punt average and has made good on 38-of-39 PATs with 6-of-9 field goals hit that includes a long of 40-yards. The work on the field has led to five-star recruiting status by Chris Sailer ranking McFadden as the No. 3 kicker in his class and No. 14 punter.
With a Texas 6A championship in sight and big games left on the schedule, I sat down with McFadden gaining in-sight on his special skills.
Interview
Joe, another season with Carroll High School, another season as one of the top teams in Texas. Overall, how is the team looking this year?
“We are looking really good. I have been on varsity for three years now, I have seen different teams across the state. We have one of the best I have seen in high school. We have an amazing quarterback and our defense looks really good; we have two great leaders there. I think we can do really special things this year.”
The offense has been explosive averaging 49 points per game. What are the Dragons doing well leading to the high-scoring games?
“We game plan really well. The preparation in the film room is insane and the practice intensity is high; that is why we have success on game days.”
Because the offense is so explosive, that gives you opportunities to show off your leg. How has the season gone for you as a field goal kicker this season?
“It has been pretty good. In our first game that was kind of rough. Our field goal operation was slow and we did not have great chemistry. We have it down now. We are smooth and consistent now.”
Crazy to put all into perspective on just how potent the offense is, but you’ve only had to punt eight times in seven games. Regardless, how is that part of your game coming along?
“Really well. I feel like this is my best year punting yet. Last year I was young and more focused on kicking and field goals. This year I am much better with my punting.”
As a kicker, what do you feel are the overall strengths to your game?
“I consider myself level headed. I don’t let the moment get too big. I have a strong leg and I am consistent. I am well rounded as a kicker.”
What about as a punter?
“With my punting, I am still working on directional placement. I can consistently hit turnover punts at about 45-plus yards with a 4.5 hang time.”
Nice. With all kickers, I like to find out your longest field goal in a game and in practice?
“My longest in-game was the 43-yarder against DeSoto. In practice, I hit one 71-yards.”
What? Was that wind-aided?
“It was a little winded aided. There is a video of it on Instagram.”
That’s great. With recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“Penn State and I am going to Oklahoma for their game against Iowa State.”
With visits, have you had a chance to take any recently?
“Yes. I went to Oklahoma State, Texas A&M twice for games this season, and I went to Texas for the Kansas game.”
Oklahoma is one planned visit; do you have any others?
“I might go back down to A&M or UT (Texas). We’ll see how the schedule lines up.”
Oklahoma is a top program, what has you excited about going to Norman?
“During my sophomore year, I visited Oklahoma. I love the town. It reminds me of my hometown. The coaches are all very nice and professional at Oklahoma. Their facilities are amazing, some of the best I have ever seen. It is insane.”
Circling back to Texas, how did that visit go?
“It was awesome. Their hospitality was amazing, the coaches were nice, and the atmosphere was pretty incredible. It was a great experience.”
Last couple of questions. The Dragons welcome Keller Central (6-1) on Friday. What kind of game are you expecting from the Chargers?
“I think they are really good. They are 6-1 and a talented team with explosive players. I think it will be a good game. This will be another good challenge before the postseason for us.”
With three games left in the regular season, what would you like to accomplish on the field and even on into the playoffs?
“For the whole team, it would be us playing a clean game; no penalties. On special teams, we’ve had good games but still incomplete. I want a full game on special teams where we are firing off on all cylinders before going into the playoffs.”
Joe, it was fun going over your skills on the field today. I appreciate your time and wish you and the team success.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: McFadden family; Joe McFadden at Texas