D.I.T.R: Jeremy Strong

Jeremy Strong is a 5’11” 190 lb class of 2024 Outside Linebacker and Running Back for the West Morgan Rebels. Jeremy is a very strong and versatile kid with explosiveness and good football intelligence. Jeremy is a very good one-cut runner who hits the hole and can break any opening for a long gain. Jeremy has the ability to be a good running back for a top tier college football program. He has the size, athleticism, mindset, and ability to compete at a high level with other great payers. He has shown his team-first mindset and winning attitude in the short discussion we had together. Great things are to come for this kid if he continues to put in work as he has in the past. Check out our Q&A below!

Can you tell us your name and position on the football team?

Jeremy Strong, Outside Linebacker and Running Back.

What made you decide to play football in high school?

I’ve always been playing football since I was a little kid. Ever since I was in 10th grade I asked myself if this is what I wanted to do and I told myself that I enjoy football a lot. I want an opportunity to play ball anywhere that will accept me.

What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced on the field?  

Adversity is tough. When stuff continuously goes bad it is tough to stay motivated during the game. However, I am working on that this off-season. Also, trying to get everyone to buy in. Coach Phillips did a great job of that last year by getting us to enjoy the process. 

How do you motivate yourself when things get tough during a game?

I think about the people who I am doing it for. My teammates are relying on me and that keeps me going. 

What do you think sets you apart from other players on your team? 

My mindset. I have a next-play mindset so no matter what happens, good or bad, I will bounce back up and keep playing. 

Can you talk about a moment in your football career that you’re particularly proud of?

We played Deshler and the game was for the regional championship. It was 6-6 and I ended up fumbling twice. Even though we lost, I was able to fight through adversity and give my all throughout the entire game. This may have been my best game of the season.  

How do you handle the pressure of being an important player on the team?

It is a lot but you can’t think about it and work hard. Everything else should take care of itself. When I have problems, now that I am a leader, I cannot react off of emotion and show my team that this is the way to handle things.

How do you balance football and your academic studies? 

If you’re constantly showing the teacher that you’re trying then the teacher will be willing to help you no matter how hard you’re struggling. Showing up to football, you must stay consistent if you want to be great.  

What have you learned about teamwork through playing football? 

Teamwork is everything in football. There is no I in the team which means if everybody doesn’t do their part then the team won’t succeed. 

Can you describe your pre-game ritual or superstitions?

We try to turn-up. I get taped up and we get the speaker and turn up. When Coach Phillips comes in we lock in and get a bit more serious. Once we hit the field it is go time. 

Who is your biggest inspiration or role model in the sport of football?

I like Shannon Sharpe. Shannon Sharpe was born and raised in South Carolina. He grew up in a small town and they grew up without food and water. His brother went to South Carolina and blew up and made it to the league. He went to a D-2 school and grinded to get his mother in a position where she didn’t have to work anymore. Shannon has the ultimate story.

How do you stay physically and mentally prepared for each game?

You must be focused. It starts Wednesday. I like to visualize the game before we actually get there and see what will happen during the game. Meditating helps me get my thoughts in order as well. 

What are your goals for the future, both on and off the field?

I would love to get a full-ride scholarship and go to a school where I can help a team. If that does not work out then I am still willing to walk-on a play ball for a school while getting my education.

What advice would you give to young aspiring football players?

Go out there and be yourself. If you come in with a good attitude everyday and ready to work, then everything else will take care of itself.

What do you hope to achieve with your football career in the future?

I hope to one day play NFL or CFL ball. I want to go pro but if that doesn’t work then I would love to help out coaching and begin my career in that aspect.