One to Watch Interview with 2021 Tennessee DE/FB Zach Larkin
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
There are times when stats do not define the player on the field; when talking about Class of 2021 defensive lineman Zach Larkin, this is one of those times. Larkin had to sit out the majority of the 2019 season due to Tennessee transfer rules only getting to play in two games for Lipscomb High School. Playing nose guard and end in those two playoff games, Larkin registered four tackles, a tackle for a loss and got time in on offense using his 6-2, 238-pound, frame as a battering ram clearing open holes for his running backs as a fullback. The limited action has not stopped collegiate programs from taking notice with a keen eye on his play during his senior season, aiding in his recruitment, Larkin carries a 4.0 GPA and scored a 28 on the ACT.
In a first interview with RNG, Larkin talks about his growth on the field in 2019 working against his Mustangs squad and the playoff action with an update on his spring training regimen.
Interview
Zach, how did the 2019 season go for you personally?
“I felt like even though I was ineligible for most of the season that it went well. I worked on my footwork, my arms and hands working on my pass rushing. I worked on my get-off and fine-tuning my stance to help improve my game. I played on the practice squad all season. I feel like I made the team and offensive line better last year playing on the practice squad. That was my goal, to help improve my team.”
What defensive scheme did the Mustangs run in 2019?
“We ran a 3-4 this year.”
How were you utilized within the scheme?
“When I did play in the last two games, I played nose guard and defensive end. I was putting pressure on the quarterback and disrupting the run. I was also utilized on offense at fullback as a lead back.”
Looking at the 2020 season, are you stay at nose guard or playing end?
“This year I will play defensive end and at fullback in an H-back role. I will be catching some passes this year, but I will mainly be playing defensive end next year.”
Which areas of your game do you consider to be strengths?
“After looking at my film, my get-off got a lot better. I have a high motor, I keep going, and that helps stopping the run. I’ve been working with the coaches at NPA (National Playmakers Academy) improving on my pass rush; that has improved over the years. My footwork and physical strength are strengths; I do a lot of lifting.”
You kind of touched on this already, beyond the things you have already mentioned like your pass rush, what else has been the focus of your offseason workouts?
“Working on the cross-chop, that will help with my inside game, working on sealing the edge, my hips, and getting good contact with my hands. I’ve been doing a lot of hand-fighting. I’ve been working at a fast pace on knocking hands down.”
During this time when the gyms are closed, what is your daily workout routine?
“I start off with a 45 to an hour workout doing footwork and agility drills. I am fortunate to have a full workout rack at home. I will hit up lower and upper body demanding on the day. I am conditioning, running hills, doing suicides or running laps, and then I jump rope and do some abs. I am working out three to four hours a day. School is done sooner now, so there is more time to work out.”
That’s awesome. You are really getting after it. Given you had to sit out due to transfer rules, recruiting may not be at the peak you desire, but which schools are showing interest?
“Harvard is showing interest and an NPA coach has talked to Eastern Kentucky and Morehead about me. Princeton was going to come watch me during spring practices, but that was cancelled. I have also had talks with coaches at UT-Martin.”
Are there any planned visits you may take coming up?
“Harvard, Vanderbilt, Morehead, Eastern Kentucky, Liberty, UT-Martin, Tennessee Tech, and Wofford.”
This summer, are there any college camps you may attend?
“Every year I have gone to a Vanderbilt camp, I will be going there again this summer. I am looking at Morehead, Harvard and some other Ivy League camps, Eastern Kentucky, Liberty, Appalachian State, and Wofford.”
Zach, thanks for your time today and keep up all the hard work this spring with your daily training.
“Yes, sir. Thank you”
Photo credit: Lipscomb HS/Larkin family; No. 44 Zach Larkin