Interview: Speedy 1,000-Yard Rusher Nicholas Wyatt Set to Add 1,000-Yards Receiving to Resume
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
If you have watched Nicholas “Nick” Wyatt on the gridiron, when he tells you his fastest 40-yard dash time is a 4.43, you believe it without hesitation. Wyatt took apart Division III California defenses during his junior season with Paraclete High School (Lancaster) rushing for 1,168 yards with 13 touchdowns off 121 totes as a breakaway back who takes his cut and then leaves hopeful tacklers in his dust. The 5-10, 190-pound, talent padded his resume in 2018 with 363 receiving yards and two more scores off at least 18 receptions. When the lights go up on Wyatt’s senior campaign, he will get to further round out his game in the slot and at free safety in addition to getting carries out of the backfield. All adds up to an explosive year that will be a “must-see” for college coaches.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with one of California’s elite talents flying under the radar to learn more about his overall game and offseason workouts with the team and Formula for Speed that will help him achieve his senior year goals.
Interview
Nick, I love your running style. You are a one-cut and gone runner using your speed to change games. How do you or how would you describe your running style?
“I am more like a one-cut and go back. I make people miss. I don’t think about anything or worry about defenders. I take what I see and go.”
Speed is such a big part of your game, what is the fastest timed run you have posted?
“My fastest 40-yard dash is a 4.43. Ran that my sophomore year at a camp.”
Nice. Your balance on contact is another standout aspect to your game. What are some of the other traits that makes you so dangerous out of the backfield?
“Before the play starts, I look to see my leverages to see if I need to favor the outside or inside with my cut. I try to know where I am going before the ball is snapped.”
What have you been working on this offseason to take your game to yet another level?
“This offseason I have been working on getting stronger, my agility, and having even better balance.”
Will your role with the team change at all during your senior season?
“This year I will play slot, free safety, and I will be in the backfield. But I am starting in the slot.”
Are you excited about starting at slot this season?
“Yes. I am. It helps me open my game up more to do different things. It is another way to showcase my talent to college coaches.”
Did you play 7v7 ball with a travel team this spring?
“Yes. I played with Formula for Speed.”
How did working with Formula for Speed help improve your game?
“It helped me with my route running and footwork. They helped me get quicker too.”
Entering the 2019 season, which schools are showing interest?
“I am receiving interest from Cal and Fresno State.”
Looking to the team and ahead. How have the Spirits looked throughout offseason practices?
“We are looking really good. We have a young team, but I am excited. We have a new quarterback transfer, CJ Montes. He is really good. I am really excited for our 2019 season.”
What goals have you set for yourself?
“I want to shake some things up, set some records, and win state. I want to leave it all out there for my senior year.”
Do you have a message for opposing Gold Coast teams in 2019?
“Be ready for our team this year. We are looking good. They better be ready – that is all I have to say.”
Nick, it was great covering ground with you today on your workouts and blazing speed. Thanks for your time and good luck with fall camp.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Wyatt family; Nick Wyatt 7v7 action with Paraclete