Missouri Football: Interview with Lutheran North 4-Star Defensive Back Toriano Pride
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Class of 2022 cornerback Toriano Pride is one of the top high school recruits in the state of Missouri. Currently, the four-star defensive back out of Lutheran North High School has 28 offers with top-tier programs like Alabama, Clemson, Notre Dame, and Ohio State seeking his talents at the next level.
During his junior season, the 5-10, 175-pound, playmaker racked up 22 total tackles with one interception and one fumble recovery while cutting off his side of the field on defense. Pride also contributes on offense chipping in 227 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 34 carries and caught 13 passes for 340 receiving yards and five more scores. After the season, he was named first team All-State as a defensive back.
The St. Louis area prospect has great speed, athleticism, and field vision. He also uses his good hands and technique on both sides of the ball. Not only does Pride work hard, both on and off the gridiron, but also in the classroom where he has a 3.1 GPA.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I sat down with Toriano to talk about his successful junior season, to get an update on his recruiting process, and to get an idea of when he will finalize his college plans.
Interview
Toriano, how would you grade your individual performance in the 2020 season?
I’d give myself an A, because I feel I gave it my all.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My speed and technique.
Did you receive any individual honors?
First Team All-State Defensive Back.
What would you say was your best game and why?
I’d say my best game was against Trinity, because I held my guy to zero catches and they couldn’t stop me on the offensive side of the ball.
How would you describe what kind of player you are?
I’m aggressive as I cover and tackle.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
4.51.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
No, because every player is different and I want to be different in my own way.
What kind of offensive scheme does your school run?
We run a Spread.
How do your skills fit into your team’s offensive and defensive schemes?
I’m elusive and fast. I also have good hands.
How would you describe what kind of teammate you are?
I’m a leader both on and off the field. I pick people up when times are hard.
What do you like most about playing at Lutheran North?
I like putting in the work the most. I get better every day.
How many college offers do you have at this time?
Right now, I have 28 offers including Alabama, Clemson, Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Ohio State, and Georgia.
Pride’s Offer Sheet: Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Clemson, Florida State, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Iowa State, Kansas, Kansas State, Kentucky, Michigan State, Minnesota, Missouri, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, Ole Miss, Oregon, Purdue, Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Texas Tech
When do you plan on committing to a college?
I plan on committing around April.
What is your GPA?
3.1.
Do you have a favorite quote?
Work hard now, relax later.
Photo credit: Twitter.com; Lutheran North DB Toriano Pride