Interview: Prolific 4-Star 2021 Nevada TE Moliki Matavao Preparing for Repeat Run
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
It is hard to imagine Moliki Matavao improving upon the junior campaign he put forth in 2019 with Liberty High School, but from the sounds of it he has taken another big step towards being among the best of the best in the country. The 6-6, 240-pound, tight end was dynamic within the Patriots’ offense a year ago snagging 46 passes for 718 yards with seven scores going up on the board. The end result was a 10-5 Nevada 4A state championship trophy, four-star recruiting status and close to 40 offers in-hand. On May 7, Moliki put an end to his recruiting process verbally committing to the Oregon Ducks. With the recruiting process behind him, the Las Vegas area prospect can fully focus on improving his game while bringing another state title back to Liberty.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Matavao sits down to fill us in on his offseason workouts with an update on his growing relationship with the Oregon coaching staff.
Interview
Moliki, the Patriots hit a stride midway through the season becoming an unbeatable force a year ago. How has that championship run help motivate the squad this offseason?
It motivates us even more. Now we are the target and the top dog. It has brought us together, and we can see how far we’ve come. We are the best team in Nevada, we are the top dogs, and we are grinding it out together.
When did or when will fall camp for you guys begin?
We started in July, but we stopped because the season has been postponed.
In the time provided before camp was halted, how did the team look?
If we were playing right now, we’d be one of the best teams in the nation. We have the best and biggest offensive line. During our sophomore year, we had some great offensive linemen, a UCLA commit at center in that group, but with this year’s team a 6-3, 275-pound lineman is the smallest guy. We have a high-powered offense. We are looking super good for the season.
Now that things have been postponed, when does the season begin?
Looks like our first game is in March.
More time to work on your craft. Your junior season was truly impressive, and you have fellow senior Daniel Britt back at quarterback this season. How have the two of you paired up this spring and summer to improve upon an already fantastic duo?
I kid you not, about an hour ago we finished another workout. Daniel and I are brothers and best friends. We workout every day on the field and in the weight room building that bond. We’re hip to hip, and we know each other’s mind, we have a great connection.
What have you been working on with your game as a receiving threat this summer?
I hooked up with a trainer working on my hip mobility, getting in and out of breaks, breaking down, more releases – anything that can help me off the line. I’ve worked on my speed and agility – anything that will create separation form defenders.
How have you worked to build up your body for the pounding of another big season ahead?
I workout every day and I keep eating right. I like having a routine, I do the same things every day. For breakfast I have five eggs, I am working out and lifting hard.
Where are you seeing the improvements in your blocking technique?
With my overall strength and power. Last season I was strong, but I have taken a big jump this offseason. I am working on my blocking once or twice a week focusing on my hands. I love doing both blocking and receiving. My footwork is down, my hand placement and hips are improving. My strength took a jump during the quarantine. I am putting it all together.
Have you had a chance to max out in the weight room?
This week I am maxing out. I got 455 on squat, 325 on bench, my clean was 285, and my deadlift was 465.
Impressive. Back in early May you verbally committed to the Oregon Ducks. Being a highly valued recruit with around 40 offers, how did Oregon position themselves above the rest giving you that feel of the ideal fit?
They factored in a lot. Of all the schools that offered, they did a great job recruiting me. How welcoming the coaching staff was with me was great and they recruited my family. They got them involved. Oregon is a player first place. I liked how they train their players and develop them. I want to develop the best I can be. Coach (Joe) Moorhead (OC/QB) coming in was huge. We will be a national championship level team.
Over the last three months, how have you and the Oregon staff continued to build that all too important bond?
I think we talk twice a day. Yesterday Coach (Mario) Cristobal (head coach) and I were catching up. For a lot of people, once you commit it all dies down. Not with Oregon, they are showing more love. They are doing really well with me.
Are you helping recruit other players? If so, what are you telling them about why they should commit to Oregon?
Yes, I am. I tell them something unreal is happening here. Last year it was the Rose bowl, next year will be the College Football Playoff. They have the greatest offense in a long time at Oregon and one of the best defenses; that is something you want to be a part of. Who does not want to play at Oregon?
Moliki, it was great catching up on your offseason workouts today. Thanks for your time and good luck with your preparations for the upcoming season this fall until we talk again.
Thank you.
Matavao’s Reported Offer Sheet: Alabama, Arizona, Arizona State, Arkansas, Auburn, BYU, Cal, Colorado, Colorado State, Duke, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, LSU, Miami, Michigan, Michigan State, Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio State, Oregon, Oregon State, Penn State, San Diego State, Stanford, Tennessee, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA, UNLV, USC, Utah, Utah State, Washington, and Wisconsin
Photo credit: Matavo family; Moliki Matavao