Interview: Opportunity to Impress Arrives for 2023 California RB Marcus Higgs
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Being an underclassman in a crowded backfield with three other seniors is never easy, but Marcus Higgs made it work. During Warren High School’s five-game 2020 season this spring, the 6-0, 210-pound, all-purpose back toted the rock 24 times for 105 yards with four scores and secured three passes for 31 more yards. When the 2021 season revs up, the Class of 2023 rising talent will be the featured back in the Bears’ backfield giving college coaches an opportunity to see what he can do over a full schedule, and he’ll be doing it with teams like San Jose State, Fresno State, Cal Poly, and Colorado showing interest.
Interview
Marcus, the Bears had a four-headed rushing attack last season with you leading the way in carries (24) and touchdowns (4). Now that those three seniors have graduated, what will your workload look like this fall?
I’m looking to not getting off the field this year. I am a every down back. Whatever they need me to do, I can do.
What offense are you guys executing this season?
We are a Spread offense with (2023 4-Star QB) Nico (Nicholaus Iamaleava) throwing the ball. I make the most of my carries. I get a first down or five yards on every carry.
What are some of the ways the coaches at Warren are getting the ball to you?
Inside and outside zone, all of that.
For this featured role in the offense, how have you worked to get that extra burst and gear with your speed?
Running track and working on the track at Warren, and by running on the treadmill.
Which varsity sports are you playing at Warren?
In track, I run the 4×1 and 4×4 relays. This year I will play basketball.
What have you been doing to improve upon your fundamentals?
Working on my footwork. I have a trainer, we work on footwork and avoiding tackles.
Beyond lining up at running back, what other roles are you taking on this fall?
On special teams I will be L5 on kick returns.
What goals have you set for yourself this season?
I want 200 yards each game. That is my goal.
This summer, did you go to any college camps?
I went to an SMU camp, San Jose, Fresno State, and UNLV.
How did the San Jose State camp go?
Very good. They are recruiting me. They love me. Their running back coach told me to stay in touch, and they gave me a follow on Twitter.
And the Fresno State camp, how did you do there?
It was cool. There were a lot of people there. I never lost a rep there. It was pretty easy.
Last one. What did they have you do at the UNLV camp?
The competition was the same, easy. I am humble, not cocky, but it was easy. They had us doing agility drills over the bags, back drills, shuffling, and catching the ball.
Marcus, thanks for updating us on your college camp circuit and workouts today. Wishing you and the Bears success preparing for the 2021 season this summer.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Higgs family; Marcus Higgs