Interview: Big 2019 WR Wayne Thomas is Standing Out in Large Crowd of California Talent

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Wayne Thomas is an offensive coordinator’s dream and a defensive coordinator’s nightmare. The duality of Thomas’ nature plays out on the field as a go-to receiver driving the ball down the field and aiding in the run game with his blocking. But his size, talents, and abilities get highlighted on third downs and in the red zone where his 6-6, 195-pound, frame, speed, and hands become seemingly impossible to cover, making the Class of 2019 talent an enticing prospect for college coaches.

Thomas is in the midst of a breakout season for San Jacinto High School aiding in the Tigers 6-0 start. In stats posted through five games, Thomas has hauled in 20 passes for 302 yards with three touchdowns sporting a 15 yard per reception average. He even helps out on special teams having taken back one kick for 20 yards and two punts for 19 more yards.

The possibilities Thomas brings to the field to a next level offense coupled with his upside has college coaches paying attention. Recruiting interest has come in from Fresno State, Hawaii, New Mexico, UTEP, Utah State, and Nevada as Thomas continues a big senior season with title aspirations for the Tigers.

In a Recruiting News Guru mid-season catch-up interview, I was able to slow down Thomas long enough for an interview covering his growing skillset and the Tigers’ perfect start.

*Click link for June 2018 RNG video interview with Wayne Thomas

Interview

Wayne, the Tigers are off to a great season with a 6-0 record. The offense is scooting along averaging 33 points per game, what all are you guys doing well on offense leading to the high-scoring production?

“We are working really hard in practice and we all have the same level of understanding of the offense and our goals – we’ve been clicking.”

Of the six games so far this season which has been your best?

“I had good games against Murrieta Mesa (12-7) and Temecula Valley (41-28). Same for the Carter game (47-16), I had two touchdowns in the third quarter.”

Which game has been the most challenging for you but helped you become a better player for it?

“This last game against Beaumont (22-16), I had seven receptions for 60 yards. We should have won by a bigger score – they threw a lot of flags on us. The challenge of that game made me better, I showed I am good under pressure in tight games.”

How are you being utilized within the offense and what type of routes are you running?

“I am being used on fades and posts. On third and long, our quarterback throws the ball up and I go get it.”

Where are you seeing the biggest improvements in your game this season?

“I am doing a better job of being humble and remaining calm on the field. I continue to work out with a tennis ball to development my hand-eye coordination. All the skills I worked on from the offseason, my hand-eye coordination, better route running, and getting into top shape are paying off this season.”

You guys get West Valley (1-5) on Friday, what kind of game are you expecting from the Mustangs defense?

“We have a really good team. We will go out there with the same game plan we have each week and work to victory.”

Wayne, always great catching up with you. Good luck against West Valley on Friday.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: San Jacinto HS; No. 8 Wayne Thomas