Missouri Football: Interview with Parkview 2022 Star Quarterback Caden Burks
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Quarterback Caden Burks had a breakout season in 2020 as the leader of the Vikings program. The 6’3”, 215-pound, playmaker threw for 661 yards and six touchdowns while gaining an additional 144 yards and four more scores on the ground, all in just five games. Burks also has registered a 4.77 40-yard dash time, nine feet ten-inch broad jump, and a 31-inch vertical jump.
While in action, this athletic quarterback displays amazing athleticism to gain yards on the ground and an accurate and strong arm to make all kinds of throws. The Class of 2022 recruit is currently receiving interest from numerous schools including Maryland, Iowa State, and Yale while waiting patiently for his first offer.
Not only is Caden a force on the football but also on the track team and in the classroom where he has a 3.5 GPA.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with the Parkview star to talk about his junior season and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
How would you grade your individual performance during your junior season?
Grading my individual performance is something that I have to really think about. Winning games is what’s important to me, so not winning really makes me as an athlete not rate myself as high and it pushes me to work harder. While watching the films and highlights, I saw I wasn’t always put in the best situations but I feel I performed pretty good. However, it would have been great if we would have won some games.
What would you say was your biggest game and why?
I would have to say the game against Glendale, who is a very competitive team and have won districts. I threw for 173 yards, ran for 70, and had three total touchdowns.
What are your strengths on the football field?
I feel my biggest strength is my arm. I can throw an accurate ball and can get the ball into tight windows. My other strengths include my physicality and attitude. I want my presence felt on every play I’m in. I’m also developing a high IQ for the game which will help me at the next level.
What is one area of your game that you saw the most improvement in over the course of the season?
I got better at reading the field, throwing in general, and running the ball. I wish we didn’t have to forfeit some games and quarantine so I could watch my skills develop more.
Would you consider yourself a pro-style or dual-threat quarterback?
I consider myself a dual-threat because I can take off at any moment but also launch the ball down the field and pass accurately.
What kind of offense does Parkview run?
We run a variety of things. We might hit you with an empty backfield one drive or a two-back set the next one. We like to mix it up.
How do your skills translate to this offense?
I’m versatile. I’ll run when I need too but still stay in the pocket and deliver a nice ball. The offense we run will also help me in college because I’ll fit in any system due to the fact that we run a little of everything.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
I like the style of Cam Newton. He can run the rock but also has a huge arm. I also try to model some of my workouts after his and just have fun with the entire process both on and off the field.
How would you describe what kind of player you are?
As a player, I play with a different attitude than what you would see me off the field. I run every play like it is a play we will score on. I describe myself as a Spartan because I love my brothers and would do anything to help them get a win.
How would you describe what kind of teammate you are?
As a teammate, I say I’m the person everyone can come to if they need something. I make sure all my guys are good when it comes to rides and equipment and I let them know I have their backs.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
I’m on the track team and I’m thinking about playing baseball this spring.
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
Science, because I love learning how and why things do what they do.
What is your GPA?
3.5.
Who has had the biggest impact on your high school football career and why?
Coach Dougherty has definitely had the biggest impact. He is there with me every step of the way and is honest with me. He is a major part of my success and recruitment.
Are there any schools showing interest in you?
The schools showing interest include Maryland, Iowa State, Yale, Murray State, Columbia, Southeast Missouri, and many others.
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
My favorite Bible verse is, “I can do all things through Christ whom compels me.”
Thank you for your time.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Burks family; Parkview QB Caden Burks with Clemson QB DJ Uiagalelei