Interview: Rising 3-Star 2020 DB/OLB Kourt Williams Talks Football and No. 8 Oaks Christian Showdown

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

During spring practices on the St. John Bosco practice field, those in attendance could see the beginnings of something special in Class of 2020 safety/outside linebacker Kourt Williams. Playing a hybrid role on the Braves defense, the 6-1, 206-pound, rover has surpassed the big offseason expectations coming up with 63 tackles, 29 solo, two tackles for a loss, two sacks, and has broken up two pass plays in 12 games played. As the No. 1 nationally ranked (MaxPreps) Braves continue their march towards perfection, with offers already on the table from Arizona State, Colorado, Oregon, Utah, and USC, Williams can add to the list of the impressed with another big playoff game on Friday against No. 8 Oaks Christian.

In an RNG exclusive, Williams caught me up on this junior season, recruiting, and gave insight on the big Division-I California playoff game.

*Click link for Aug. 18, 2018, RNG video interview with Kourt Williams

Interview

Kourt, the Braves have put together another great season with the defense shutting down the opposition to just 12 points per game on average. What is working so well for the defense this year allowing you guys to dominate the way that you are?

“I think it has just been about us being consistent and knowing what we have to do against the opponent. We already know what they will run before they run it. All our defensive coaches have done all the hard work to put us into place to make plays. Their brains are the reason why.”

Of all the tough teams that you have played, which game has been your personal best?

“My best game was against Mater Dei. As they say, big games make big players.”

What did you do well against the No. 2 Monarchs?

“I had a sack, two pass deflections, and 10 tackles.”

That would qualify as a top game. How have your talents as a linebacker/safety improved throughout the season?

“My main thing this season is studying film. My football IQ has improved a lot. If I know what they are going to run, I know how to react to it. My man coverage and eye discipline has gotten better. I am not getting caught looking back at the quarterback.”

Is there an area of your game that is on point but may not show up in the stat sheet or on a highlight reel?

“Yes. My ball hawking skills. I have zero interceptions, but they do not throw my way. That does not show in the stat sheet. Hopefully, I will get an interception or two in the playoffs.”

Every game counts for the Braves, but that motto means a little more in the playoffs. Against Serra and San Clemente, how have you stepped up your game?

“For me, I take it one game at a time. But, you are right, the playoffs are a different feeling and have a different attitude. You lose there is no tomorrow. You have to play each like it is the championship game. We do not worry about the opponent, we just got out there and play.”

Oaks Christian made the jump to Division I this season and have more than proven they belong with a 12-0 record and a No. 8 national ranking. Their offense is run-heavy, how does that match-up work for the Braves’ defense?

“We are a run stopping defense. It will be physical. It will be won in the trenches. If we dominate in the trenches, we can win. If we fly to the ball on every play, we will be fine.”

What will the in-game match-up against the Lions offensive line and Zach Charbonnet be like for you?

“I know they have a lot of pulling guards, I will have to be in the box more taking on pulling linemen; I am not used to that. We will have to tackle well. My open field tackling will have to be good against Charbonnet. We have to swarm and punish. If we do that, we will be fine. We have to eliminate No. 24 on Oaks Christian.”

Ending on recruiting. You have the offers but which schools are showing interest in you?

“I am receiving interest from Fresno State, UCLA, Washington, Washington State, Arizona, Northwestern, and Cal.”

Have you had a chance to take any visits during the season?

“I have gone to a UCLA game. I was supposed to visit Clemson but I missed flight to Clemson. I am planning on going to Clemson during the offseason.”

In general, what kind of notes are you receiving from college coaches during the playoff run?

“They are telling me to keep up the good work, wishing me good luck, great job so far, we have our eye on you, and they always say we will be watching.”

Kourt, always great catching up with you. Good luck on Friday against Oaks Christian.

“Thank you.”

Photo credit: recruitingnewsguru.com; Kourt Williams