Talented 2018 Tennessee All-Purpose Back Dre’ McAllister is Still Being Overlooked Ahead of NSD

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @Ryan WrightRNG

Every year college football fans for just about every program lament not getting that playmaker who can help win games and take their beloved team to the next level. One such talent hidden away in plain sight at South Gibson High School is Class of 2018 all-purpose back/athlete Keiondre “Dre” McAllister.

McAllister has been the main man for his Medina area team over the past two years, but took his talents to new heights during his senior campaign. As a junior, he was an explosive force out of the backfield rushing for 1,170 yards on 96 carries with 13 touchdowns in stats posted through seven games. The 5-10, 170 pound, pure athlete added 1,213 yards off 117 carries with 15 touchdowns to the resume in 2017. His opportunities as an every down back expanded during his senior year hauling in nine passes for 122 yards with two more trips into the end zone.

The max effort put forth on offense was doubled on defense tallying 56 tackles, two interceptions, two tackles for a loss, a sack, and blocked three kicks. Adding to his myth, he took back a punt for a 56-yard score. Interest has touched McAllister here and there but not to the level of his talents. Stanford, Memphis, East Carolina, Ohio, Middle Tennessee State, and Louisville have been among the many to check him out with offers coming in from Texas-San Antonio, Bethel, and Harding.

A deeper look, McAllister truly is that all-around student-athlete coaches seek. Off the field, he carries a 3.8 GPA and scored a 22 on the ACT.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive look, I sat down with McAllister chopping it up over his senior year and recruiting process.

Interview

Dre, how did your senior season play out on the field?

“It played out how I planned it. All the goals I set were accomplished. I rushed for over 1,000, we won our first playoff game in school history, we beat our rivals, I was All-State, and I made an all-star team. I ended the season with my head high.”

What areas of your game improved throughout the season?

“I feel like I improved mentally the most. My leadership grew. We overcame adversity, and I helped lead us past tough times. When no one else sees the light, I was there pushing me and my teammates forward. With my play on the field, I showcased my high motor. When my number was called, I answered it with a high motor. I am the one they depended on.”

What was your final stat line?

“I had 117 carries for 1,213 yards and 15 touchdowns. I also had nine receptions for 122 yards and two more touchdowns. On defense, I had 56 tackles, two interceptions, two tackles for a loss, a sack, and I blocked three kicks. I also had a punt return for a 56-yard touchdown.”

That is a tremendous season, Dre. Congrats.

“Thank you.”

You already mentioned you were All-State, did you receive any other postseason honors?

“Yes, sir. I was All-State, All-West Tennessee, and first team All-Region as an athlete.”

You’ve had a lot of interest over the past year, which schools are showing interest in you now as National Signing Day nears?

“Tennessee State, Arkansas Pine Bluff, Hampton in Virginia, and Howard. I feel there are still coaches looking for overlooked players like myself. the next three weeks, I believe, will be big for me.”

How many offers do you have now?

“Three – UTSA, Harding, there are a top D-II program, and I recently got an offer from Bethel (NAIA).”

Do you have any visits planned between now and National Signing Day?

“I have an official set for Harding this weekend. I am planning on going to Tennessee State on Jan. 26. We’ll see how everything holds up with the weather. We’ve been getting a lot of snow.”

*Interview conducted before Dre’s official visit to Harding.

What are you looking for in that ideal college and football program?

“I want a school to take a chance on me and push me to my full potential. I want to be used within the offense to help us win games – as an explosive player, the way I can be used. I am looking for a great education. I want a great college experience.”

Have you started an offseason workout program, if so, what all are you doing?

“I’m training for track right now. I’ve been doing a lot of running. I’ve also been doing some body weight training, I’m trying to build my endurance.”

Is there an area of your game you are working on the most?

“Building my endurance and my speed. That will develop my game 10 times more for the collegiate level.”

Are you playing any other varsity sports for South Gibson this winter or spring other than track?

“No, sir. Just track.”

Which events?

“The 100, 200, 4×1, and 4×2.”

That’ll keep you busy. Dre, a couple of minutes ago you mentioned that you feel some schools needing a talent such as yourself is still out there looking. If a college coach reads this and then starts to recruit you, what type of student-athlete are they recruiting?

“They are recruiting a student athlete that takes everything serious. I am a hard worker and I do what I am supposed to. They don’t have to worry about me. I am accountable for my actions. I am optimistic about any situation. I am a well-spoken leader who can bring people together. I am a positive soul in the room.”

Dre, thanks for your time today and good luck with the rest of the recruiting process.

“Thank you.”

**Click link to see Dre McAllister’s Hudl highlight reel.

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Photo credit: The Jackson Sun; No. 23 Dre McAllister scores a touchdown

Photo credit: McAllister family; Dre McAllister at Harding