Interview: Rising 2023 California SS/RB Brandon Ramirez Talks Football and Longhorns Offer
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
More and more underclassmen are rising to the occasion for their high school squads making an immediate impact on the gridiron. One player for California’s Hanford High School, Brandon Ramirez, far and away exceed any expectations placed upon his shoulders during the preseason earning a spot with the Bullpups as a three-way starter. The Class of 2023 talent is now a rising star on the recruiting trail having already earned an offer from the Texas Longhorns.
Suiting up against varsity competition in California’s D-II classification is not easy, but Ramirez made it look like another Wednesday practice with the Bullpups come Friday night. The now 5-11, 200-pound, athlete lined up at running back carrying the pigskin 66 times for 406 yards with five touchdowns and caught a nine-yard pass. On special teams, Ramirez took back 11 kicks for 258 yards showing no fear with 11 barreling down on him.
Where Ramirez showed perhaps the most upside was on defense playing safety. He knocked around 75 ball carriers forcing loose three fumbles while picking off a pass and knocking away five attempts. His efforts earned the rarity for a freshman, second team All-West Yosemite League honors.
As Ramirez physically and mentally prepares for his sophomore campaign, he does so with a new challenge ahead – playing for San Joaquin Memorial. Covering his impressive breakout season and offer from the Texas Longhorns, we sat down for an in-depth Q&A.
Interview
Brandon, the stat line you posted in 2019 would be impressive for a third-year starting senior. Going into your freshman year, did you know that you would counted upon as widely as you were in all three phases of the game?
“No. Overall the season went well for me. It was an adjustment being the youngest guy on the field. I was tasked to play multiple positions, I adjusted, and made plays for my team.”
The workload takes a lot of weekly preparation. How did you study up on the playbook and your opponent each week to prepare for a game?
“During the week I watched a lot of film with my dad. During practice I made sure I knew what the game plan was and did a lot of extra work like watching film by myself.”
Was there a point during the season, on both sides of the ball, where everything started to click for you?
“Yes, By Week 3, that is when I really felt like I belonged. We played against a tough opponent, I had a good offensive and defensive game.”
Getting the rock out of the backfield, what were some of the plays called to get you into the offense?
“We ran a lot of RPO (run-pass option), inside and outside zone runs, and some counters.”
How did your game improve as an offensive player last season?
“I adapted to the speed of the game, I found ways to hit the whole hard, and improved my yards after contact.”
What were some of the coverages the Bullpups were running last season?
“We ran a lot of Cover 2 and 4, and some Cover 6 too. Sometimes we did Cover 3, that put me in the box to help against the run.”
How did your talents as a safety improve throughout the 2019 run?
“My talents improved by reading and reacting and making more plays on the ball as the season went on. I was coming up and hitting, being fearless out there.”
This offseason you have transferred to San Joaquin Memorial, right?
“Yes.”
What roles are you taking on with the new team in 2020?
“Not sure yet, but I know that I will be helping my team on both sides of the ball. Whatever they ask me to do I will do to the best of my abilities. My coach talked about safety and running back.”
To prepare for the upcoming season, what have you been working on?
“My dad set up this sick offseason program for me. Five days a week I am working on strength and conditioning. I am lifting weights, and train with Johnny Johnson; he played at UCLA and he trains pro players.”
Nice. If the college camp circuit happens, are there any you may attend this summer?
“I’d like to camp at UCLA, Fresno State, USC, and I will see what else is out there for me to go to.”
This last week you picked up your first offer. Which school offered you?
“Texas.”
What was that moment like for you finding out you had earned your first scholarship offer and from a blueblood program like Texas?
“Honestly, it was a great feeling. It did not feel real at the time. I am beyond humble and grateful for the opportunity.”
At which position did the Longhorns offer you?
“At safety.”
Going back to last season, have you had a chance to visit any college football programs?
“Yes, I took an unofficial to Fresno State.”
How did that visit turn out for you?
“It went well. We watched the UNLV game; I was on the field for a little bit.”
That’s cool. Going into the classroom, what’s your favorite subject in school?
“Math.”
Last questions. What goals have you set for the 2020 season?
“For the 2020 season, I will continue to work hard, play faster, and help my team win games. I want to maintain a 4.0 GPA and improve in all aspects of the game.”
Brandon, congratulations on receiving your first offer. Wishing you continued success with your workout this summer.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Nancy Hampton Silva/Ramirez family; No. 35 Brandon Ramirez tackle
Photo credit: Ramirez family; Brandon Ramirez at Fresno State