One to Watch Interview with 2021 Hawaii OLB Alan Talanoa
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
If there is a team in Hawaii that can knock No. 1 St. Louis High School off their perch come playoff time, Kahuku appears to be the team to do it. The two powerhouse programs met on Sept. 7 with the No. 7 nationally ranked (MaxPreps) Crusaders claiming a 30-14 win over the Red Raiders. But, these teams always battle, and it is always a slugfest. If the Red Raiders are to upend the defending Hawaii state champs they will need contributions from everyone, including guys like rising Class of 2021 talent Alan Talanoa.
Talanoa (6-0, 185) is being called upon early to help solidify the Red Raiders defense in the middle as a run stopper and ballhawk against the opposition’s passing attack. In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with the rising Hawaii talent to learn more about his overall game with an update on the Red Raiders season thus far.
Interview
Alan, the Red Raiders bounced back from a tough loss to nationally ranked St. Louis to up end Kamehameha 24-7, how did it feel to notch the fourth win of the season?
“It was a great win. We have to learn next man up; we have a few people banged up right now. It was a good team win. I was proud of the way we bounced back for the win.”
How did that game go for you?
“I feel like I could have done better; there is always room for improvement. Overall, it was a good game. I was being vocal, and we were all playing to the ball and fast. We were sticking to our assignments.”
Which game this season has been your best and why do you consider said game your best?
“I’d say either Punahou or Konawaena. In those games I was flying around. I was sticking to the script. The defensive line and defensive backs were doing their jobs and so was I. It helped our team.”
Which areas of your game are you seeing improve throughout the season as a linebacker?
“I am seeing improvement on my coverage. I am being more aware and seeing the reads better. I am also seeing the routes better. My open-field tackling is improving. I am not diving for their legs but breaking down and trying to strip the ball.”
What are your overall strengths as a linebacker?
“My play recognition is a strength. I am patient, if I see the gap I do not shoot it right away in case of a boot or a screen. I feel like there is always something in the mix.”
You guys get Mililani next, what kind of game are you expecting from them?
“Like every team we play, it will be a big game. They are coming off a big win. We will do what we do. Our offense will show out and our defense will be there to make plays.”
The team has four regular season games left, what are you goals for the rest of the season?
“My goals are to improve each game and be more vocal on the field. I want to help everyone. Everyone has to be ready to step up if needed. I want to be more of a leader for my team, I want to do what I can for the team to help us win.”
Last question. Who do you have in the 2018 College Football Playoff?
“I think Miami, Alabama, LSU, and USC will make it.”
Alan, I appreciate your time today. Good luck on the 29th against Mililani.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Kahuku High School; Alan Talanoa