SEC Teams still Reaching Out to Ole Miss 4-Star LB Commit Josh Clarke
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
The demand for a versatile linebacker capable of playing on the inside or outside will never go out of demand among Power Five Conference programs. The rise of Riverdale High School (Jefferson) 2017 defensive standout Josh Clarke has been watched by next level coaches and continues into his senior campaign.
The 6-3, 220 pound, playmaker wowed college scouts in 2015 seeing the Louisiana product put an end to 149 plays while coming up with 18 sacks, six interceptions, and six forced fumbles scoring the ball three times from the defensive side of the ball. All the productivity created a swell that reached a pitch during the spring evaluation period with 27 schools reported extending Clarke an offer.
Clarke had an eye on schools like LSU and Arkansas among others but an April 1 and June 9 visit to Oxford led to a June 13 commitment to Ole Miss, but that has not stopped colleges from keeping in touch.
In a Recruiting News Guru stylized interview, I caught up with Clarke to get an overview on his off-season and a quick insight to Riverdale’s 2016 squad along with a recruiting news update.
Interview
Josh, I know you’ve been busy over the summer trying to perfect your craft. What all have you been working on to prep for your senior year?
“I’ve mainly been working on my speed and gaining weight.”
You played last year around 215, what are you weighing now?
“220 (pounds).”
What was the best 40-yard dash time you laid down this off-season?
“A 4.4.”
Nice. Did you max out on any of your lifts?
“My squat is at 585 pounds and my bench is at 290.”
Did you go to any camps this summer?
“I went to a Nike Opening Regional camp and a camp in Louisiana. I got MVP at the Louisiana camp.”
Congrats.
“Thank you.”
Even though you are committed to Ole Miss that does not stop other schools from keeping in touch. Which schools continue to reach out to you as a just in case?
“Teams still showing interest in me, there are a few, Texas A&M, Texas Longhorns, Arkansas Razorbacks, Florida Gators, Bama (Alabama), LSU, Baylor, Illinois, Idaho, and TCU.”
That is an impressive list. Have you set any official visits yet?
“Not yet. I’m still thinking about it.”
Did you take any unofficial visits this summer?
“I went to LSU.”
How did that go?
“It went well.”
How does Riverdale look going into the season?
“We look great. I think we will have a real nice season. We have a great running back that’s going to do really well this year.”
Are there any games on the schedule you are excited to play this year?
“Yes. Warren Easton (Oct. 8), Edna Karr (Sept. 29), and McDonogh 35 (Oct. 20).”
What are your personal expectations for the season?
“I just want us to be better than everyone else.”
Well put. Josh, thanks for your time today and good luck with the season.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: nola.com; Josh Clarke at a Nike Opening camp.
Photo credit: nola.com; No. 2 Josh Clarke in action.
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