Ohio Football: Interview with Springfield 2021 OG Rod Green
By Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
The anchor of a powerful and explosive offense resides in having strong lineman up front to protect the quarterback in the passing game and create holes in the running game. One good example of a player that excels on the offensive line is offensive guard Rod Green, who plays at Springfield High School. Green and the rest of the offense put 31 points a game while leading the team to a 12-2 record and an appearance in the state semifinals. In 2020, their eyes are on a state championship.
This 6’4”, 293-pound, blocking machine uses his tremendous size, strength and footwork while battling in the trenches and finishes blocks all the way to the whistle. Green also has great athleticism and an 82-inch wingspan. The Class of 2021 recruit currently has six offers including Eastern Kentucky and Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Green’s recruiting process is taking off as he is receiving interest from numerous Division One schools.
Not only is Green a force to be reckoned with on the field but he also excels in the classroom where he holds a 3.08 GPA.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru, I sat down with Rod to discuss his junior season at Springfield and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Rod, what are your thoughts on the 2019 season?
“I feel like we had a great season. All of the team helped and we made each-other better each day. Coach Doug always stays on us to get better, and we made it to the final four of the playoffs and played Elder to play in the State Champions.”
From your point of view, what made your offense, which averaged 31 points a game, gel together so well?
“I feel like communication was a major affect and how we prepared in practice like it was a game. We took every practice and game serious like it was our last game.”
How would you grade your individual performance last year and why?
“I feel like I did good job for my first year playing on the offensive line. It was fun but I will improve for the better and come back better for this season.”
What are your strengths on the football field?
“My strength is finishing the block; I love to finish the block on the ground!”
What was your most memorable moment last year?
“Week 13 was a game to remember. The crowd was live and it was a great game; we won 7-3 against Dublin Coffman.”
What is your practice and workout schedule during the offseason?
“My schedule: I wake up every day and do 100 push-ups and sit ups and then I go out to work on footwork, work on my pass set, and how I block.”
What are you working on most to improve your game going into your senior year?
“I’m working on improving my pass set the most.”
Where are you seeing the most improvement in form from last season until now?
“I see my footwork getting way better than last season.”
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
“Shaq Mason, I love the way he plays the game!”
Who has had the biggest impact on your football career and why?
“My mom; I love her so much. She’s had the biggest impact on football for me. She’s my motivation and she keeps me going. Being a single mom isn’t easy but she always makes it work. And all of my family, they support me so much in what I do; I love them for life.”
What do you like most about playing at your high school?
“Everything.”
How many college offers do you have right now?
“I have six offers right now from Eastern Kentucky, Morehead State, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, Grand Valley State, Lake Erie and Findlay.”
What other schools are showing you interest at this time?
“A lot of schools are showing interest including Youngstown State, Western Illinois, Illinois State, Duquesne and Murray State.”
What is your GPA?
“My GPA is a 3.06 but I maintained a 3.8 this year with a 4.03 in my last quarter. My GPA should go up to a 3.2 or 3.3. I am a student-athlete.”
Do you have a favorite quote or Bible verse?
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” – Philippians 4:13.”
What are your goals for your senior season?
“My goal is play well at all times and win a state championship.”
Thank you for your time and good luck in your senior season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photo credit: Twitter.com; Springfield OG Rod Green