Landon Jones is a 5’10” 170 lb Quarterback for the Billingsley Bears in Billingsley, AL. Landon is a very calm Quarterback who can make throws from inside the pocket, even if it seems like he is being pressured heavily. Landon can throw on the run and extend plays with his legs. He always keeps his eyes down field for an open receiver before taking off with the ball in his won hands. Last year as a sophomore, Landon had 1583 passing yards, 66.9% completion rate, 12 Touchdowns, and 12 Interceptions, with 283 rushing yards on 74 carries with one touchdown. Landon only lost one fumble throughout the entire season. With that being said, Landon Jones is looking to improve for his junior season next year and grab offers from some highly sought schools in his journey.
Can you tell us your name and position on the football team?
Landon Jones, Quarterback
What made you decide to play football in high school?
My dad grew up playing football so I’ve been playing since I was very young. The teamwork aspect drew me towards football compared to other sports. The team camaraderie influenced me to stay with football as well.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced on the field?
For me, the biggest challenge is my size as a quarterback. It is easier to be successful as a quarterback when you are a bigger size. When you are small it is sometimes challenging as a quarterback.
How do you motivate yourself when things get tough during a game?
I motivate myself by constantly thinking positive, or what is the best outcome of this tough situation. I try to make sure that I make the team better as I continue to play throughout tough situations.
What do you think sets you apart from other players on your team?
My experience and my work ethic sets me apart from the other players on my team. I have always worked pretty hard ever since I was a kid, so it is not difficult for me. My dad being a football coach ever since I was a young kid helps my experience a lot. Also, playing for a 6A school last year was very helpful in forming my experience.
Can you talk about a moment in your football career that you’re particularly proud of?
I have two. Last year as a freshman, I got play of the week at Gulf Shores High playing with a great receiver who mossed a guy. This play made the news and all media outlets. Also, when I was able to lead Billingsley to a Homecoming win last year it was very memorable because they have not been too successful in the recent past.
How do you handle the pressure of being an important player on the team?
I always try to stay calm about every situation. I try to minimize the pressure that I can get to. For example, preparing myself in film study is very important to minimizing pressure.
How do you balance football and your academic studies?
I balance it pretty well by making sure sports do not get too much in the way of my academics. I make sure that I get all of my work done before I do anything with sports.
What have you learned about teamwork through playing football?
In football, you have to work as a team and if you don’t then you will lose. In real life, you will have to work with people, and if you don’t then it will be very hard to be successful.
Can you describe your pre-game ritual or superstitions?
To be honest, I do not. I am very quiet before games until it’s time to go. However, I like to go to the goal post pad and touch the B, the H, and the S. Lastly, I always pray before every game.
Who is your biggest inspiration or role model in the sport of football?
No doubt, my father. I play football because he kept me around football my entire life. He keeps me around football and he’s always been there for me so I always looked up to him since I was a kid.
How do you stay physically and mentally prepared for each game?
Physically, I only drink water. On Thursday’s I drink pedi-lyte and take pickle juice shots before the game. Workouts during the week and relaxing stretching is key to keeping your body relaxed. Mentally, watching film is key to making sure that you know what’s going on in the field of play.
What are your goals for the future, both on and off the field?
My end dream is to go D-I and make it to the NFL. I want to play football in the future no matter what. I want to be a role model for the younger kids so I try to make sure that I am always doing the right thing. If football does not workout then I would like to do physical therapy.
What advice would you give to young aspiring football players?
Stay calm under pressure and stay smart, but do not let opportunities pass you up. Put God first and stay humble.
What do you hope to achieve with your football career in the future?
My dream is to make it to the NFL. I like to take my goals step-by-step so now, I want to win a State Championship for my School, who hasn’t been very successful in the recent past. After this, I want to play D-I ball in college. After this, the NFL and wherever life takes me in that journey.
