Interview: College Programs Taking Notice of 2022 Georgia DE Kristopher Cassel
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Meadowcreek High School has a youth movement underway on the football team helping propel the squad to new heights. The Mustangs are 4-5 on the season with a chance to grab a third seed in the 7A Georgia playoffs with a win on Friday night. One of the guys moving offensive linemen out of the way while crushing carriers of the pigskin to that desired third seed is Class of 2022 defensive end Kristopher Cassel.
Cassel is having a breakout season with Meadowcreek after laying down the tracks for success during his sophomore varsity campaign. At 6-5, 240, Cassel has alternated from end in a 4-3 and in a 3-4 showing his versatility in the trenches taking on double teams making explosive plays in the backfield. In stats posted thus far through the nine-game schedule, Cassel has put an end to 40 plays with 10 tackles for a loss, and 6.5 sacks.
As the Mustangs stampede towards the playoffs, and with college programs watching, Cassel stopped by the RNG Lab for a detailed Q&A interview.
Interview
Kristopher, last season you were utilized at defensive tackle and end in the Mustangs four-man front. What scheme is Meadowcreek running this season and where all are you lining up?
This year we were in a four-front for two games but then we went to a 3-4. I am playing end in our 3-4. It is different from the four-front. I was 3-technique but now I am a defensive end. Now I get more double teams when I am slanting to a gap.
Over the offseason, what did you work on with your skillset to prepare for the 2020 schedule?
I worked with one of the best defensive line trainers out there, Marcus Howard (Georgia). We worked on my ball get-off, my flexibility, and hands to rush the passer better. I have worked a lot on staying low, my flexibility, and my speed. Those were one of my problems last year.
This was touched on, but for more detail, how are offensive lines going up against you trying to take you on?
In a three-front, in some games I am doubled by the guard and tackle when I slant inside. If I go outside, I am usually getting picked up with the tackle and there might be a tight end there too.
You’ve been punching the clock in the opposition’s backfield, especially against that team with the red jersey racking up at least three sacks. What’s been working for you allowing easy access off the snap?
Our defensive line coach always talks about getting off the ball first. As mentioned, I have worked on my ball get-off a lot, that has improved. I am using my hands more with my moves during my bull-rush, when I am swimming, and during my cut-rip. We go over all that stuff every day in practice.
Nine games into the season, where else are you seeing the biggest growth in your talents?
I am seeing growth in my football IQ. I am recognizing plays from watching films. Now, I am understanding what is going on. My football IQ and being more physical. I have gotten way bigger and way stronger than I was last year.
Did you get to max out over the offseason?
We have not maxed out lately. Our coach has a way of doing things where we don’t do a one-rep max. If I had to estimate my maxes, on bench I am at 275, my front squat is about 375, and my power clean is 250.
If I were to ask you to put on tape of your best game this season, which film are you starting and why?
I would be staring the Dunwoody. I had eight tackles, three sacks, and three tackles for a loss in that game.
Nice. You and (21-offer 2023 defensive lineman) Denzel Moore make a horrific one-two punch for 7A Georgia offensive lines. How do the two of you play off one another and/or push one another to dominate in the trenches? Are you guys pushing one another?
Yes, sir. I’ve known him since seventh grade, but then we were playing basketball together. This is our third year playing football together. He is big and athletic; I have the strength. We push each other to compete harder. It is a love competition.
Where is the team at now with the schedule? Looks like Discovery (Lawrenceville) is next up.
Yes, sir. Our game last week was cancelled because of the virus. We have one more regular season game left. If we win this game, we are the third seed in playoffs. If we get that seed, it will be the first time in school history to have that high of a seed in the playoffs.
With what you have seen of the Titans (3-6) offense, what kind of game are you expecting against them?
They are more of a run-heavy game. Their running back went for 35 carries getting 200-plus yards in their last game. This will be a run-heavy game for us. Discovery has a good defensive end over there. I am ready to show out. I know scouts will be looking at this game.
With college scouts in mind, let’s talk about your recruiting process. Which schools are showing interest?
I have talked to Notre Dame, Akron, UAB, Colorado, Toledo, and Murray State. Georgia State, Baylor, Penn State, and Arizona are also showing interest. I know my defensive line coach has talked to other schools about me.
When visits are allowed again in 2021, which schools might you go see?
I plan on visiting NC State, they want me up, UAB too, I have talked to their defensive line coach multiple times, and Notre Dame. I would like to go to App State again. They are showing interest; I have been there once. That is all I can think of right now.
Kristopher, I enjoyed breaking your game down today. Thanks for your time. Wishing you and the Mustangs success against Discovery and on into the playoffs.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: NJ Photography/Cassel family; Kristopher Cassel