Rising 2020 Georgia CB Ivan Yates Talks Offseason Grind and Recruiting Visits
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Any high school football player going up against 7A Georgia competition and showing out in the process is doing something. That is exactly what Ivan Yates did during his junior season with Lassiter High School. The 5-10, 173-pound, athlete proved he was not only a cover corner, but also a fierce hitter in the open-field and a studious with his film study blowing up plays to his side of the field before they get going. For his efforts, offers have been dropped by South Alabama, Columbia, Princeton, and Liberty with interest picking up nationwide.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Yates and I sat down for a quick one-on-one capping his 2018 season, offseason goals, and recruiting process.
Interview
Ivan, how did the 2018 season go for you on the field?
“The season was alright. I got to travel a lot – I played man coverage and locked up top receivers on a week-to-week basis. The competition was great. I enjoyed it.”
Some of the things I see in your game from the year previous, you were hitting harder and your play recognition was sharp, how do you feel your game as a corner improved last season?
“I was faster last season and my technique improved. I was 15 pounds bigger than the year before, that was helpful. I did a lot of film study last year, a lot of film study before games which really helped.”
At this point in your career, what all do you consider to be the strengths to your game?
“I have really good technique, that is one of my strengths. Another strength, my football IQ is high. I breakdown receivers and offenses to see their tendencies during my film study. My press man, that is a strength.”
Which game last season was your best and why?
“I’d say my best was the Etowah game. We lost that game, but I only gave up one catch for about five yards after being targeted six or seven times. I had a lot of breakups and a forced fumble.”
What are you focusing on with your game this spring?
“I am working on my speed. I am running track and working on my explosion. I am in the weight room doing lower body work to get stronger. My technique work, I am always working on my technique.”
Is there an area to your game that might get overlooked because it does not show up on a stat line?
“That is a very good question. Because I am playing a lot of man coverage my ball skills may not be as obvious. In zone, it is easier to make plays on the ball and you can read the quarterbacks eyes. In man coverage, you have to be more disciplined.”
Are you going to any national camps this spring?
“Yes. Upcoming I am going to an Under Armour All-American Camp on March 31 and I am going to the Tennessee Nike Opening Regional in May.”
With recruiting, which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Harvard, Kansas State, Yale, Coastal Carolina, Georgia State, Georgia Southern, and Michigan State.”
Nice. I know you have blown up on the recruiting trail with offers lately. Which schools have offered you?
“South Alabama, Columbia, Princeton, and Liberty.”
Have you had a chance to take any visits over the last couple of months?
“Yes, sir. I went to South Alabama two weeks ago and I went to Manhattan (KS) to visit Kansas State last month.”
How did the South Alabama visit go?
“It was great. I got a chance to see spring practice. I got to see their coaching styles and how the players performed. I talked to my position coach, Coach (Josh) Jones, and their recruiting coordinator, Coach (Pete) Bennett. They showed a lot of love. I like their personality.”
What about Kansas State, how did that go?
“It was great. Coach (Van) Malone (corners) is over there now. Their new head coach, Coach (Chris) Klieman, he came from North Dakota State, has a lot of energy. They are an upbeat and positive staff. Kansas State has nice facilities. I think they will build something special there.”
Do you have any upcoming visits you may take?
“I am going to Princeton on April 13 and I am setting a date for Harvard and other Ivy League schools coming up. On April 14, I am going to Columbia. I might go to South Alabama for another spring practice if I can.”
Ivan, it was great catching up with you today. I appreciate your time.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Yates family; Ivan Yates at South Alabama and Kansas State