Interview: Recruiting is Taking Off for 7-Offer 3-Star 2020 Arkansas OL Erin Smith

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Three-star rated Class of 2020 North Little Rock offensive lineman Erin Smith has the look of a technician in the trenches who is just scratching the surface of what he could become over time. The Charging Wildcats standout lined up at both left and right tackle for the defending state champs helping anchor a line that returned to the 7A title game in 2018. Along the way, North Little Rock and Smith took the opposition’s best shots from the hopefuls trying to laying claim of dethroning the champs in-season. The squad pushed through to a 12-1 record. The high-caliber play has led to seven offers to date for Smith with more sure to come during the spring evaluation period.

With a return to the state title game in mind, the offseason grind has the 6-5, 280-pound, lineman working on his craft in preparation for the run. To learn more about his overall game and rapidly rising recruiting prospects, we sat down for an in-depth interview.

Interview

Erin, the Charging Wildcats went into the 2018 season as the defending 7A state champs. I’m assuming every time you guys stepped foot on the field you were taking the opposition’s best shot. How did that help evolve your game to another level?

“It evolved my game by competing against the best and knowing you were going to get their best. You had to go into each week prepared. That makes you prepare even better. We practiced hard to be ready.”

Which game was the most challenging for you last season going up against a defensive lineman or linebacker?

“The Evangel Christian (Shreveport, LA) game. We were told how big and strong their defensive line was throughout the week of the game. They did have a great defensive line.”

How did that game against Evangel Christian make you better?

“It made me better because I knew I had to play hard to get the win. Our running backs are relying on the offensive line to open holes so they can make plays. It made me better taking on the challenge.”

Was there a point in the season where everything started to click for you? The experience and athleticism really started to come together helping you dominate?

“Yes, sir. The third game of the season against Whitehaven (Memphis, TN).”

What do you feel are the strengths to your game as a pass blocker?

“I feel like I have quick feet, I can bend, and I am long. My long arms help me attack defenders first.”

What about as a run blocker?

“I am quick off the ball and I am physical.”

Are you staying at tackle in 2019, or will we see you playing multiple positions?

“Yes, sir. For now, I will be playing both tackle spots.”

Which areas of your game are you focused on this offseason?

“I am focused on getting stronger, gaining some more weight, and getting faster.”

Are you going to show off your skills at any national camps this offseason?

“Yes, sir. I am going to the Nike Opening Regional in St. Louis and I am going to an Adidas Three-Stripe camp.”

I know your recruiting is really starting to take off. How many offers do you have now?

“I have seven offers.”

Erin Smith’s Offer Sheet: Arkansas State, Memphis, North Texas, Louisiana-Monroe, Tulane, SMU, and Louisiana Tech

Are there any schools showing interest that have not offered?

“I am receiving interest from Arkansas.”

Have you had a chance to visit any schools yet?

“Yes, sir. I took an unofficial visit to Arkansas.”

How did the Arkansas visit go?

“It was nice. We saw the facilities, toured the locker room, and we went to a game.”

Erin, it was great learning more about your talents on the field today. I appreciate your time.

“Thank you.”

 

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Photo credit: Smith family; Erin Smith at Arkansas (Jan. 26, 2019)