Interview: Cisco 2017 LB/DE Michael Clemons Sets Official with Ole Miss Eyes another SEC School

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @HogManInLA

Michael Clemons captured the imagination of college recruiters across the country after his spring practice highlight reel hit the internet. Clemons is that rare athlete who is big, powerful, quick, and productive but is just starting to come into his own.

The coaching staff at Cisco (Texas) redshirted Clemons during the 2015 season. The year on the sidelines learning the game and in the weight room gaining strength has made a difference. Clemons emerged in the spring as a 6-6, 241 pound, end/outside linebacker with running back speed. The payoff for Cisco has been on the field where Clemons has become an impact player this season.

Most college coaches spotted an under the radar gem almost immediately. The season is young but Clemons already has 10 scholarship offers with interest expanding across the country like a wildfire.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Clemons to get his thought on the season thus far and received a recruiting news update.

Interview

Michael, how has your redshirt freshman season gone so far?

“The season is going really well. In our last game, vs Blinn, I had 11 tackles. I’m doing my best to disrupt offenses while causing trouble for the other team. I’m trying to help the team win to the best of my abilities.”

You redshirted last season, has there been any challenges getting back into the flow of the game?

“I really don’t believe I’ve had a problem. It has been easier than I thought it would be. The coaches have done a great job simulating games here at practice. The coaches did a great job in spring and fall camp of getting everyone prepared. I was prepared coming into the season.”

You have a big game on Saturday against New Mexico Military. What type of challenge does that game present for Cisco’s defense?

“They have a really good quarterback (Jordan Ta’amu). He throws the ball really well. He moves out of the pocket a lot to make plays. If we let him, he can capitalize on our mistakes. We have to play our game and show him what we can do.”

How many offers do you have right now?

“I have 10 offers.”

Which schools have offered you?

“UCF (Central Florida), Middle Tennessee, Utah State, Kansas State, Ole Miss, Minnesota, North Carolina State, Mizzou (Missouri), Tennessee , and Arkansas.”

Which schools are showing interest in you but have not offered you yet?

“I’m getting interest from UCLA, Florida State, Texas A&M, Oklahoma, and USC. I’ve talked to those schools. There are a lot of others who have followed me on Twitter but I’m not sure about their interest level.”

Have you set up any official visits yet?

“I have set up an official with Ole Miss in January.”

Do you have any other visits that you are wanting to set?

“I want to visit Mizzou but I have not set any visits with any other teams yet other than Ole Miss.”

Interest in you seemingly has not even reached a high point. But you do have a lot of offers on the table. Have you started thinking about your top teams yet?

“No, there are still offers coming in. I’m going to wait until after the season to come up with a top list. I’m still getting recruited heavily. I’d like to wait a little bit to see what other offers might come in for me.”

Makes sense. Michael, thanks for your time today and good luck against New Mexico Military.

“Thank you.”

Please help keep RecruitingNewsGuru.com FREE!

If RNG has helped you, a friend, or a family member through an article, video, or stylized interview with our countless hours of free promotion for high school, junior college, and college athletes – please donate. Any amount is appreciated!

Photo credit: buccaneerssports.com; No. 48 Michael Clemons chases down a ball carrier.

Photo credit: Cisco; No. 48 Michael Clemons works during spring practice.