Earl looking to take next step as QB

EDITOR’S NOTE: This week The Volante interviewed sophomore quarterback Kevin Earl. In his first season as the Coyotes’ starting quarterback, Earl threw for 1,920 yards and nine touchdowns. The Volante talked to Earl about the upcoming offseason and what he remembers about the recruiting process three years ago.

Grant Bosiacki: What have you personally, and the rest of the team, been up to since the season ended?

Kevin Earl: Most of us feel the season went pretty well. We made some improvements, but there’s still a lot more in front of us. A lot of us are excited to get this off-season started especially in the weight room. I think a lot of guys have a lot in store for them, so we’re just working hard getting ready for next year.

GB: You had one win last year and four wins this year. Did the season go as you expected?

KE: There were some games we felt we played very well, and there were others where we didn’t play as well as we hoped, and some games we couldn’t close out. Four wins is good, but it’s not going to get us in the playoffs, and I think that’s our goal for next year.

GB: Coaches are out recruiting right now. What do you remember about that process as a player?

KE: It’s a fun time for a lot of kids, but it can also be a tough time for a lot of kids like me. It’s kind of confusing. You’re not really sure where you’re going to go to school or where you’re going to play at. I am excited though for the recruits we’re bringing in. Our coaches have done a great job of bringing in guys who are making immediate impacts.

GB: If you were Joe Glenn, or any of the other coaches recruiting, how would you sell USD?

KE: I think our team is growing immensely both on the field and off the field. Also, it’s a start of a new era. We’re getting a lot of new sponsorships like Adidas. It’s a fun place to be at right now.

GB: How excited are you to bring back essentially your entire offense next year?

KE: I’m looking forward to that a lot; it’s going to help immensely having another year of experience at all positions.

GB: You’ll have a few new offensive linemen next year. Is that tough to adjust to as a quarterback?

KE: It’s going to be a little tough to get used to. For me, a first year starter, I just kind of took what was given to me. Now, after a year under my belt, I kind of have a feel for my offensive line. There’s going to be some growing pains, like most offensive linemen, but I think our guys are ready to go.

GB: What’s one thing you’re working on to take the next step?

KE: I’m trying to grow as a leader and as a teammate. Also, trying to get better physically, work on throwing the ball, but overall, I’m just trying to step into that leadership role more.

GB: How different will this offseason be in comparison to last year?

KE: It’s night and day pretty much. I think a lot of guys look at me differently than they did last year at this time.

GB: Are there any players on the team right now who aren’t very well known that in a year from now will be a key player?

KE: A few guys, not as many on offense because we have so many people coming back, but a few younger guys. One is

quarterback Aaron Ramsey, who might be stepping up at tight end. Also there is defensive back Jacob Warner on defense who will make an immediate impact.

GB: How are you making sure not to hang your head after a tough loss to end the year?

KE: You just have to forget about it, put it behind you, and look at the positives that you can get from a season.