Interview: Speed Burning 3-Star 2022 Alabama ATH Demarcus Lacey is an Impact Offensive Player
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The mission of the offensive coordinator at Pleasant Grove High School is clear, get the ball into the hands of scatback Demarcus Lacey. The Class of 2022 three-star talent ran past 5A Alabama defenses in 2020 rushing for 1,100 yards with 19 trips into the end zone and tacked on at least 271 more yards off 12 receptions with three more scores in the passing attack. The 4.4 speed was further showcased on special teams taking back a 75-yard punt and two kicks for 190. When all was said and done, Lacey (6-1, 180) had covered 2,100-plus yards with 25 total touchdowns.
College programs are loving what they are seeing in Lacey with seven offers extended and interest swelling. For an update on his season, workouts this spring, and recruiting process, Lacey stopped by the RNG Lab.
Interview
Demarcus, you were putting on a show throughout the 2020 season using your speed, burst, and field vision. Knowing you can impact a game in such a dynamic way, how did you mentally prepare yourself for each game?
For each game I prepared by locking in, listening to music, and not playing ahead of game time. During the week, we watched film after practice.
Let’s get into your speed, because you showcased it on offense and special teams. How fast are you?
My fastest 40 time is a 4.45.
Where did you post that?
At a camp.
On offense, what were some of the designed plays to get the ball into your hands?
Mostly inside zone.
How did your offensive skills improve from Game 1 to the end of the season?
After Game 1 I was getting more comfortable. That was my breakout game. Against Central is when I started realizing the fundamentals of football. I scored four touchdowns in that game. My blocking and footwork improved a lot as the season went on. After practice, our coaches would have skill groups work together on fundamentals.
How were defenses trying to stop you?
Blitzes; most of our plays are designed inside.
At what point did teams stop kicking your way on special teams?
After the Ramsey game. They started putting the ball on the ground or kicked it to the other side. They stopped kicking it deep.
When the 2021 season gets going, are you doing anything differently on the field?
You will see me at receiver and some on defense.
At which position on defense?
Most likely at safety.
What have you been working on with your game this offseason?
My footwork mainly. I have to get better at that.
Are there any camps coming up you may attend?
A Rivals camp on the 25th in Atlanta.
Going into recruiting. Which programs are showing interest but have not offered you yet?
Vanderbilt, Coastal Carolina, Indiana, LA Tech, Army, and Alabama.
How many offers do you have?
I have seven offers.
Which program was the last to offer you?
Memphis.
Lacey’s Offer Sheet: Alabama-Birmingham, Eastern Kentucky, Liberty, Memphis, San Diego State, Troy, and Western Kentucky
When visits are allowed again this summer, are there any programs you might go see?
I want to visit Memphis, Alabama, and Western Kentucky. I’d love to visit Oregon.
Demarcus, thanks for your time today and good luck at the upcoming Rivals camp.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Lacey family; Demarcus Lacey