Interview: Former Centennial OL Malik Rencher is Now an Emerging DT for San Bernardino Valley JUCO
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
What a difference a year can make in the life of an athlete. During the 2017 high school football season, Malik Rencher was a grind it out offensive lineman for Centennial High School (Corona) helping the Huskies to a 10-3 record and a No. 12 national ranking (MaxPreps). Now the 6-2, 270-pound, athlete is a hard-nosed defensive tackle for San Bernardino Valley College paving a path forward to a four-year program from the other side of the ball. The Wolverines are 7-1 on the season with their true freshman talent in the trenches coming up with 24 stops, seven tackles for a loss, two sacks, and a fumble recovery.
In an RNG catch-up interview, I sat down with Rencher covering his transition from the offensive line in high school to the defensive line in California’s tough junior college ranks.
*Click link for Nov. 26, 2017, RNG interview with Malik Rencher
Interview
Malik, the Wolverines have been a force this season producing a 7-1 record to date. The offense is a juggernaut averaging 51 points each time out. What are the strengths of the defense this season contributing to all the big wins?
“We are always talking about the defensive line being the best corps on the field at any time. Everything goes through us. We can handle any challenge an offense brings to us.”
What scheme do the Wolverines run on defense?
“We normally run a four-man front but we can run a three-man front if the team we are playing runs a lot.”
How are you used within the defensive scheme?
“Within the scheme, I have a gap to contain on running plays. Basically, if I am a 3-technique covering the A or B gap. Anything that does not come our way we bounce it out. If it comes our way, we handle it.”
What was it like switching positions?
“I have always been competitive. I was unsure after changing positions to something I have not played since my freshman year in high school. I knew it was a challenge, but I also knew we had a good team. I was willing to work hard for my teammates and coaches. They all pushed me to get better and I have worked hard to improve each week.”
How have you adjusted your game this season from a top high school level with Centennial to action at the junior college level?
“I found out early that this is college. There are some adults on the field. I had to get used to people being stronger than me. I have acclimated to it and learned to use my technique to make plays against stronger offensive linemen.”
Which aspects of your game have improved throughout the season?
“Driving my feet through contact is one area. My hand work is a lot better. My ball awareness has improved a lot. I am always aware of where the ball is going.”
As your abilities continue to grow, what do you consider to be the strengths of your game?
“Right now, I’d say my determination is the main thing. If I am going up against one-man or a double team, I take pride that I will not be moved back. They cannot break me down and I am always pushing forward.”
What are you constantly working on in practice?
“My footwork. I am working on flipping my hips and trying different moves so I am not one dimensional.”
The team just beat Citrus 42-35 and now you get a road game against Victor Valley. How will Victor Valley’s offense challenge you guys on defense?
“They are more of a pass heavy team. They will look to double-team us on the line. Their QB is not very mobile. If we get back there we are taking him down.”
Malik, always great talking to you. I appreciate your time today and good luck on Saturday against Victor Valley.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Rencher family; Malik Rencher