The Huskers first huge visit weekeng of the 2019 season has come and gone. Coach Scott Frost and his staff took full advantage of having a night game at Memorial Stadium to host recruits and their families. Not only did Nebraska get to show off an electric atmosphere but they also had a huge 44-8 victory.
One of the unofficial visitors in town was Butler Community College hybrid tight end/wide receiver DeShawn Hanika. The pass catcher has been to Lincoln before—under the Mike Riley staff—but this was his first game experience with Frost running the show.
Had an amazing time in Lincoln yesterday unbelievable atmosphere and tradition at Nebraska, thank you @CoachRHeld @coach_frost @SeanDillonNU for having me #GBR 🔴☠️⚫️ pic.twitter.com/pNYI3MecZE
— DeShawn Hanika (@DeShawnhanika) September 15, 2019
I caught up with Hanika to discuss his relationship with the coaches, his fit within the offense, the plans for an offer from Nebraska and more.
Here is the full Q&A:
How was the trip to Lincoln?
“It was amazing. The atmosphere and the fans are one of a kind. The love that everyone showed me and my family was amazing.”
What did you get to do while in town?
“I got to talk to [running backs] Coach Held and [Director of Player Personnel] Coach Dillion a lot. I was also able to see the facilities.”
How is your relationship going with those coaches?
“It’s going good. I talk to Coach Held every week and Coach Dillion checks up on me all the time.”
What position are they talking to you about?
“We are talking about mostly tight end with maybe flexing out to receiver.”
What do you think about that and how do you like their offense?
“I love it. In this case it creates lots of mismatches at that position with a very aggressive passing game. Plus, it puts you in position to help with the run game. It’s an ideal offense for a player of my type.”
Have you guys talked about an offer yet and what that process is like?
“We talked about that for a long time yesterday. They are waiting to see if they are going to take another tight end/wide receiver or if they are going to go defensive. They said I’m definitely at the top of the list if they go offensive.”
What schools, aside from Nebraska, are you talking to?
“UTEP, Kansas State, Memphis, Indiana and Colorado.”
Are any of the schools standing out to you right now?
“Nebraska is definitely one of them but also probably Colorado, Memphis and Kansas State.”
What would you say are some of the things you are looking for in a school?
“The number one thing is tradition. Ever since high school I’ve been part of unbelievable tradition surrounding the football programs. Other than that, an offense that suits my skills. Just what coaches I have the best relationship with. Then a little bit of where my little brothers and parents feel like the best fit for me as a person and an athlete is.”
Which family members came with you and what did they think?
“My mom Kim and dad Brad came with me. They loved it. They had nothing but great things to say about the coaches, fans and atmosphere around Lincoln.”
What were the highlights of the trip for you?
“Getting to experience everything around the field and talking to my friends Zavier Betts, Turner Corcoran and Marvin Scott. They had nothing but amazing things to say about the program and why I should come dominate the Big Ten with them.”
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/12511786/5d64556e5b3e6010f02fa7b4
Greg is the Recruiting Analyst for Hail Varsity and has covered Husker athletics since 2013. He has always had a passion for sports while growing up in the Chicago area. As he got older and had to hang up his cleats and sneakers, he realized his passion for sports went beyond just watching and attending games. He has covered many events from the Rose Bowl to championship boxing matches. If he’s not talking sports, he’s hovering over his grill. He is married to an amazing woman, Kim, and they have a dog that barks when Greg yells at the TV during games.
