Owen Smith is a defensive lineman from Ascension Catholic High School in Donaldsonville, La. The 6’4 255 pound class of 2021 recruit has an incredible first step. Getting into the pads of offensive linemen before they get out of their stance in many instances. Not only does Smith have elite speed, but he uses his strength and power to split double teams to sack quarterbacks and ball carriers in the backfield alike. As a junior Smith recorded over 90 tackles. Owen tells me he has a 250 pound bench, 380 pound squat, and 375 pound deadlift. He is currently carrying a 3.5 GPA.
When did you start playing football?
I started playing football when I was about five or six years old. I started playing pee-wee football for the Bayou Lafourche Raiders, and I stayed with that program for probably over eight years. It’s been tackle football since then.
Did you play any other sports growing up?
Yes sir. I played all sports growing up. Basketball to swimming to baseball. This past year, I’ve played sports in high school other than football as well. I’m still playing basketball, and baseball. I’m doing track too. I’m throwing the discus and shotput and javelin. Just really field events.
Growing up did you play any other positions or was it strictly defensive line?
Growing up I played all around, wherever the coaches put me. I was always eager to play football, and I was usually bigger than everyone else.
Looking back at this past season, what were some of your goals?
Make it to the Louisiana Super Dome. As a team, not really as far as myself, I really tried to help hold the team together. I wanted us to go as far as we could.
Who would you say some of your biggest influences are?
Some of my biggest influences from last year are probably Nick Hilliard, who went on to play at Princeton University. He taught me it doesn’t matter how big you are, no matter how strong you are. If you strive you will succeed. He was also one of the smartest kids at our school, academically. Another big influences is probably my sister, she plays at Sam Houston State for volleyball. Me and my family have always been around sports and we’re always really competitive.
What would you say motivates you the most?
My mom and my family. They’ve done so much for me, I really just want to get my college paid for and get a good education. I just want to make my family proud.
Do you believe attitude is a factor in winning?
Yes, very much. It’s a mindset that can be transferred to the body. Like a physical mindset almost.
Who is your favorite NFL player?
I would have to say probably Drew Brees, because he has a positive attitude no matter what the game is. He has a strong character, and he respects the game, and he is well rounded.
At the end of this coming season, what would you want your coaches and teammates to say about you?
I’m a player with a good head on my shoulders, and that I have the drive to go play at the next level. I helped the program all I could and made it better. I am committed to the game.
On a scale of 1-10 what would your ideal game day performance number be?
It all depends on the atmosphere of the game. I feel I perform better with higher competition. But I would say a 10. I strive and I keep a heavy mindset on the game, just to perfect myself.
If you weren’t playing football, what sport do you think you would be playing?
Probably basketball, honestly, because it’s a team sport everyone is needed at that position. Everyone is needed to work as a unit, kind of like football.
What are some of your goals for this upcoming season?
Yes, I want to lead the team in sacks, and tackles. I want to lead the division in tackles also.
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