Interview: Announcement – 2023 California QB Darius Cowens Can Play
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
It is difficult to not get overly excited about the projection of Class of 2023 dual-threat quarterback Darius Cowens. From the jump the freshman took the reigns of Pacifica High School’s offense throwing for 1,563 yards with 12 touchdowns and carried the rock 98 times for 275 yards with three more scores earning first team All-Empire League honors. At 6-0, 170, Cowens is that true mix of gunslinger and fast-on-fast talent capable of demolishing opposing defenses. Once all the experience and athletic talents converge, the stratosphere is the limit for Cowens.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with the impressive rising California star covering his improbable 2019 season with a look ahead to his goals over the winter and spring months.
Interview
Darius, regardless of the 2019 preseason expectations put upon your shoulders, either by yourself or others, you exceeded all with your play on the field. How do you feel your freshman season against varsity competition went overall?
“My first time on the field, it was scary. The game speed was fast. I was reading the defenses as fast as I could, after the first few plays it seemed like it would be hard. But after the first game I got the hang of the speed after that.”
When did you find out you were going to be the starting quarterback for Pacifica?
“During fall camp. We were working out; we were doing a passing drill and they told me I would be the starter. They told me they thought I was ready.”
What was your weekly preparation for a game?
“I’d watch film every day. I would watch extra film at diner and go over it with my receivers so they would know my calls, like when the corners are playing up stuff like that.”
The Mariners run a lot of RPOs, tell me a little more about the style of offense you were running last season including some of the routes you were hitting.
“Our offense, they opened it up because I can run and throw. They put in some rollout plays to get me on the outside. Some of the stuff was hard for me at first but it got easier. We were running a Spread with dubs and trips, and stacks to spread the defense. The routes were streaks, posts, five-yard outs, post-corners, comebacks, and slants.”
Your speed shows. What have you done over the years to work on your speed?
“I do speed training with my uncle. We work to loosen up my hips and to get my stride longer.”
How were defenses trying to scheme against you and the offense with your ability to throw and run?
“Their game plan was to blitz their linebackers. They thought they could pressure me but I knew what was coming. I’d tell my slot to run an out because there was no linebacker there to cover him.”
The overall feel for the game had to grow tremendously for you last year. Which areas of your game grew them most in your opinion?
“My weakness at first was reading the defense, but once I started watching more film it started to click. All of my game improved this past season.”
Which aspects of your game are you working on this spring?
“I’m working on my footwork with a QB coach and I am also working with my cousin Josiah Hawkins (WR Princeton).”
Are you playing with a 7v7 team this spring?
“Yes. I am playing with Premium Sports LA.”
Guessing your play on the field is attracting college attention. Which schools are showing interest?
“New Mexico and Colorado State.”
Are you taking any unofficial visits this spring?
“With Premium, we are visiting Tennessee, Arizona, Louisville, and Florida.”
Are you competing in any other sports this year?
“Track.”
Which events?
“The 100 and 4×100 relay.”
Darius, it was great spending time with you today learning more about your game. Good luck this spring with your workouts and on the upcoming visits.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Pacifica HS/Cowens family; Darius Cowens in action