Player Focus: 2015 RB David Smith Jr.
Player: David Smith Jr.
Class: 2015
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Height: 5'10
Weight: 205 pounds
Position: Running Back
School: Cardinal Gibbons High School
Get to Know the Player
How would you describe yourself as a player on the field? Physically, mentally, etc.
- Physically, mentally, etc.: I pride myself on my physical and mental toughness and my work ethic, being the first person in and out of the weight room, being the first to practice. I know it sounds cliche but it's true and it's why players on my team respect me and see me as a leader. I don't complain about the hot summer workouts or the long practices in August and November because I know they will pay off in the season. I love to hit. I'm not a running back that will dance in the open field and try to look pretty. I like to try to run people over. I know our entire offensive and defensive playbooks. It's just because I love the game so much
And which player do you model your game after or who would best describe you?
- Because of my shorter, stockier build, I like smaller, more physical running backs like Maurice Jones-Drew, Ray Rice, Pierre Thomas, Frank Gore, Marshawn Lynch, etc. But, my favorite running back that I try to mimmick is Earl Campbell. He's a similar build to me..
How has your recruitment gone overall in your eyes?
- It has been a little slow, but it's gone great. I've had the opportunity to talk to many coaches and I have been very impressed by the schools that I have visited.
What offers do you currently hold from schools?
- Currently, I do not hold any offers. But, I am hopeful that will change soon.
Which schools are showing you the most interest?
- The Ivy League Schools: Harvard, Yale, Cornell, Brown, etc.
Have you planned any visits in the future?
- Not yet. I am still waiting to see what other schools show interest in me and then I'll begin to make some decisions.
Could you describe some of the schools you have been to and your thoughts on them?
- I have been to Harvard and Yale, and I was impressed by both. They are very beautiful schools. They have great traditions. They are also great academic schools, obviously. That is most important to me.
Football wise, what are you looking for in a school?
- I am looking for a strong academic school. They don't have to have the rich tradition of winning games and championships. I do, however, want to feel that the school is building and competing every year. I still hate to lose. I couldn't go to a school where we lose every year. I'm not that type of player and I have never experienced that and do not wish to start.
What have you been working on during the off season?
- I have really been working on my speed and quickness. I am slowing cutting time off of my 40 and shuttle. I love the progress that I am seeing. I think I have great vision and hands, but my speed is really why I have not gotten the offers and attention yet.
What are your strengths & weakness on the field?
- My strength is my mindset. On Friday nights, I feel like I could play two or three games straight without need of a break. I have such a love for the game where I don't want to ever come out of the game. I am a guaranteed 100%, full-speed, all-of-the-time player. I don't let up. My weakness is that I am a perfectionist. I expect more from myself than other players. At times when I don't do what I expect from myself, I get frustrated and down on myself. But, I have been working on that.
What do you think you could provide on the field to a college team looking at you?
- I don't provide a world-class athlete that looks great in gym shorts. I provide an all around football player. I can also be a great leader. I don't talk much, so when I do, people listen and it is usually meaningful. I give my all in class, on the field, and in the weight room. My coaches will tell you that they don't have push me to do anything. They will also tell you that I am a respectable young man. I don't get into trouble. I'm humble, and I'm honest.
Any goals you would like to achieve before you graduate high school?
- Before I graduate high school, I would like to have rushed for well over 1000 yards, maybe even 2000. I would like to have gone undefeated and have won a state championship.
How did this past season go in your own opinion for both yourself and for your team?
- I was proud of the unselfish way I played last year. I didn't get angry when my coach asked me to play slot receiver, outside linebacker, corner, or safety last year. I accepted the challenges and succeeded. I helped my team win games while doing so. As for my team, I was disappointed. We lost four games that we honestly could have won. The team we lost to in the playoffs by one point last year ended up winning the state championship.
Stats
800 all-purpose yards. 11 touchdowns. 30 tackles. 1 interception.
Highlights