Interview: Clemson QB Commit Zerrick Cooper Talks Senior Season and Gives Recruiting Update
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
Jonesboro High School is off to a 5-1 start to their 2015 season with Clemson commit Zerrick Cooper under center. The Cardinals are looking tough and much improved after posting a 4-7 record a year ago.
The Cardinals missed their 6’4”, 207 pound, gunslinger last year due to injury. Now head coach De’Timonthy Floyd has offensive engineer back and the squad is ready to take on all challengers in the Georgia High School Playoffs.
The Tigers wisely jumped on Cooper early getting his verbal commitment in mid-October a year ago. Other teams to have offered the Jonesboro area native includes West Virginia, Ohio State, Miami, Louisville, Colorado State, Ole Miss, N.C. State, Virginia Tech, Cincinnati, and Mississippi State.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Zerrick before the Cardinals big showdown against Spaulding on Friday to get his thoughts on the season thus far and a recruiting news update.
Interview
Zerrick, how is everything going on the field for the Cardinals this year?
“It’s going good. We have one tough lost with some mental mistakes but other than that, the team has been able to execute on offense. We’re scoring the ball and getting turnovers. As a team were pretty good.”
How has your play been in the pocket this year?
“It’s good. I think since we had a bye week I should be able to elevate my game. Hopefully this upcoming game I can improve and continue throughout the rest of the season.”
What is your stat line right now?
“I think I’m 87-of-140, 926 passing yards, and seven touchdowns.”
We’ve talked about your injury last year before, going from your sophomore and junior seasons to this year, how has your game improved?
“I’m stronger and much smarter. Taking that year off made me look at the game differently. I’ve learned a lot on and off the field.”
You just said you’re stronger and smarter in the pocket but what are your strengths on the field when you drop back to pass?
“Being able to make different types of throws. I think that is a major key at the quarterback position. I feel right now that I can make any throw on the field.”
You guys have a weird schedule. You play nine regular season games right?
“Yeah, we play nine plus a play-in game.”
Are there any games left on the schedule that you are excited to play?
“The game this Friday against Spalding. They’re the No. 8 we’re the No. 6 team in the state of Georgia.”
What has been your best game so far this season?
“Sandy Creek (Jonesboro won 17-15), they were ranked No. 2, 3, or 4. We were like No. 6. Going into that game, it was a hyped game with two ranked opponents. In that game, I had the most passing yards this year in that game and I threw most of my touchdowns in that game.”
Which visits have you taken so far this fall?
“Just my visit to Clemson on Sept. 5 for the home opener against Wofford.”
Do you plan on taking any other visits?
“Hard for me to say right now.”
Are there any teams pushing hard right now in recruiting?
“Yes, Florida and Mississippi State.”
When do you take your official to Clemson?
“I’m trying to take it Nov. 7 for the Florida State game or in January.”
Is everything going well in the classroom?
“Yeah, everything is going smooth. I’m just focusing on my books and football. Those things are the only two things I’m focused on at this point.”
Good luck the rest of the way and thanks for your time today.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Zerrick Cooper at Elite 11 semifinals in Los Angeles.
Photo credit: twitter.com; Zerrick at the Wofford vs. Clemson game (orange jacket).