Over the weekend, Nebraska hosted a number of players for the sold-out spring game. A number of those players were 2020 prospects that came into the weekend with offers already, including 3-star (HV Rating: 87.2) linebacker Malik Reed. The Chandler, Arizona, native is being recruited by inside linebackers coach Barrett Ruud to play inside linebacker.
Had a great time at Nebraska. Amazing visit ! #GBR 🌽 Thank you @BarrettRuud @coach_frost pic.twitter.com/V9MkeFfQUu
— Malik reed (@malik_tbc) April 14, 2019
I caught up with Reed to get his thoughts on the fanbase, his relationship with Ruud, his decision timeline and more.
Here is the full Q&A:
What were your overall thoughts on the visit?
“It was a great visit. I [am] definitely happy I can [get] out there to talk to [the] coaches and see what they are all about. The fanbase there is crazy too.”
What did you think about a sold-out spring game?
“Yeah, it’s crazy. It just shows how diehard the fans are and how the whole state is behind them basically. It’s crazy they did that for a spring game.”
What did you get to do on the trip?
“I pretty much just went to the game, [toured] the facilities. I got to talk to Coach [Scott] Frost, Coach Ruud and watch the game.”
How was it interacting with the other recruits?
“I got talk to a lot to Jamar Sekona, the defensive tackle from California. He spoke highly of Nebraska. He really likes them.”
How is your relationship building with Ruud?
“He seems like a great coach. He’s a great dude. All my interactions with him have been great. He knows what he’s doing. He’s played at the highest level so he knows how to get there and what to do.”
Did you know coming into the visit that Ruud is a Nebraska legend?
“No, I didn’t really know. It was cool knowing that he’s a big deal around there and played at Nebraska. He really loves that program and he’s been a part of it. He’s done it before.”
What do you think about your fit within their defense?
“They see me as an inside linebacker. I can play well in space and that’s where they’d want me. Making good reads and dropping back. I think I could fit in their defense well.”
When do you plan on your taking your official visits?
“I’m taking an official to Wisconsin in June. That’s the only one I have planned. Most of the schools I’m talking to will try to get me out in the summer.”
What is your timeline for making a decision?
“I think I’ll make a decision right before my senior season starts.”
Where would you say Nebraska fits into your group of top schools?
“I don’t have a specific order yet but I am definitely considering Nebraska. I would definitely go there. I don’t have a specific order at this time though.”
What are some things you are most looking for in a school?
“Just the coaches. Do they really care about their players? Are they really going to take the time to get them better? Is the program going to be winning because I don’t want to lose for four years. So I’m not just looking at me but the depth around me. Who is going to be there with me?”
https://www.hudl.com/video/3/7814090/5b9750d3b3d20d0f48a280de
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.
