Interview: Saddleback DE/LB Markus Sullivan Bringing the Heat to California JUCO Field
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
After a standout high school career at Henry M. Jackson in Mill Creek (WA) that included consecutive seasons going over the 100-tackle mark, Markus Sullivan took his talents to Portland State to play linebacker for the Vikings. At the end of his redshirt freshman season, change on the Viks staff switched the defense from a 4-3 to a 5-2 changing the course of Sullivan’s collegiate career. After a medical redshirt season in 2018 (ankle), the 6-4, 235-pound, defender is now at it with Saddleback College playing end on one of the top JUCO teams in the nation. His get off and strength has led to 18 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and a sack in the Gauchos 5-0 start to the 2019 season.
After getting Sullivan’s Portland State commitment interview on Jan. 17, 2017, it was great catching up with the now rising JUCO talent covering how his skills have grown and the new emerging recruiting process for the December 2019 graduate.
Interview
Markus, before we get into the 2019 season let’s talk about the experience you picked up playing for Portland State. Where did you line up for the Vikings?
“I was at middle linebacker and I would help out at defensive end, that is how I learned how to play defensive end before going to Saddleback.”
What scheme did they run on defense?
“Originally, we were in a 4-3, but the new coach ran a five-down with two backers. They wanted me to play Whip Backer. In that defense, the Whip Backer crashes the B gap.”
How did that time with PSU help mold you as a player?
“It got me used to the schedule at the D-I level. We had 5:30 a.m. workouts. It also got me used to the locker room feel. It was a great learning experience.”
At Saddleback College you are lining up at end using your speed and strength against the run and pass. What style of defense are you guys running this season?
“We run a 3-4 or a 4-2.”
Where are you showing the biggest improvements in your overall game?
“The biggest improvement has been my quickness off the ball and my speed. I need to gain some more weight, but I have been using my speed to balance that out.”
What are some of the challenges going up against JUCO offensive tackles as a weakside end?
“I haven’t had too much trouble with the tackles I have played against. After playing at PSU, there is not much trouble for me going against JUCO tackles. Most of the guys are psychical but I try not to stay engaged for too long.”
Is there an area of your game that may not get the attention it deserves because it does not show up in the stat sheet?
“I have a high motor when I play and I never stop moving. I am always going to the ball. I pursue the ball in my game.”
Which schools are showing interest?
“I have talked to San Jose State, they like my film, and I have sent film to Utah State, Northern Iowa, and Southern Miss. Northern Iowa likes my film as well.”
When will you receive your AA?
“My graduation date for my AA is in December.”
Going through the recruiting process a second time, what are you seeking for the ideal fit at a four-year program?
“I’d like to go somewhere with a college town and college football town feel. Of course, I am looking for the best opportunity for me. I do like the college town atmosphere. Location wise, I am down to go wherever.”
You’ve played both linebacker and end at the collegiate level thus far, do you have a preference as to which position you want to play when you go to a four-year program?
“I am open to playing outside linebacker, middle linebacker, or end. I am willing to get up to 245 or 250 to play end if needed.”
Great. Last question. The Gauchos are having a great season at 5-0. How is the team looking heading into the second half of the schedule?
“We are looking pretty good. We have a chance to run the table. In conference games, we still have Riverside left to play (Nov. 16). I think they are 5-0. They have us ranked No. 4 in the country and them No. 1, I think. It will be a very good game.”
Markus, it was great catching up with you today after some time. I wish you and the Gauchos success the rest of the way.
“Thank you.”
Photo credits: JP Westerbeck Photography; Markus Sullivan pre-snap (2019)