Deryc Plazz: Powerhouse Offensive Line Recruit Set to Bolster Miami Hurricanes
As the Miami Hurricanes eagerly await the arrival of Deryc Plazz, the towering offensive lineman from Mandarin High School, fans are buzzing with anticipation for the impact he's set to bring to collegiate football. In an exclusive interview, Plazz graciously provided a window into his world, offering a glimpse into his journey, mindset, and aspirations.
While gearing up for a state championship game with Mandarin High School, Plazz reflects on the culmination of his senior season, describing it as nothing short of amazing.
Plazz: "This season at Mandarin has been amazing, just continuing to progress and get better as the season continues."
Upon transferring to Mandarin, Plazz brought not only his imposing physicality but also a winning mindset. The expectations were clear from the jump – nothing short of a state victory. It's this mentality that Plazz believes has been a driving force behind the success of his teammates who share the same goals.
Plazz: "It doesn’t come as a surprise, though; these were the expectations from the jump when I transferred here. My intentions were to win state, and my teammates have set those same goals."
This season, Plazz notes a significant evolution in his game, a transformation centered around the mental aspect. Learning the intricacies of college-level terminology and schemes, coupled with understanding how to lead different personalities, has been a pivotal component of his preparation for the collegiate stage.
Plazz: "This year I improved the most in my mental aspect of the game. Learning college-level terminology and schemes while also learning how to lead different types of people...it was a great mental preparation year heading into college."
In a reflective moment, Plazz opens up about his in-home visit with the Miami coaching staff. It wasn't just a formality; it was an opportunity to strengthen the foundations of relationships that are already robust, a precursor to the camaraderie he hopes to build with his future coaches.
Plazz: "My in-home visit was great. It was a really good opportunity to sit down with my future coaches and just chat with those guys building onto already strong relationships."
The success of fellow lineman Francis Mauigoa and the entire offensive line has injected excitement into Plazz's anticipation of joining the Hurricanes. He acknowledges the high regard the coaching staff has for him but underscores the hard work ahead to secure a spot among the starting five.
Plazz: "Seeing the success of Mauigoa and the rest of the o-line this year has me extremely excited to join this team. I know the coaches hold me in high regard...but it has also been clear to me that it’s going to be worked for."
When it comes to honing his craft, Plazz turns to the best. His admiration for Trent Williams isn't just because he's the most popular; it's rooted in Williams' fundamental soundness and football intelligence. Studying and learning from the best is a cornerstone of Plazz's commitment to excellence.
Plazz: "I like to study and learn from Trent Williams a lot. Not just because he’s the most popular guy, but because [he's] fundamentally sound [and a] very smart football player."
Delving into the camaraderie within the 2024 recruiting class, Plazz emphasizes the shared values and beliefs that bind them together. It's not just a brotherhood; it's a collective commitment to the program and the envisioned plan that unites them in their quest to be Miami Hurricanes.
Plazz: "Our 2024 brotherhood is very important...we all believe in the program and the plan that’s in place and really all want to be Hurricanes."
Looking forward, Plazz strategically opts for early enrollment, recognizing the edge it provides. His decision is grounded in a desire to be not just part of the brotherhood but to actively vie for a place on the field alongside teammates who have already acclimated to the program.
Plazz: "I will be enrolling early. It’s very important to me because, at the end of the day, we’re all brothers within the team. But we all want to get on the field, so getting that edge over other guys in the class while also being alongside guys that are already there. It’s just an advantage."
In summarizing himself for fans who haven't yet witnessed his prowess, Plazz offers a glimpse into his playing style.
Plazz: "I describe myself as an aggressive but smart player. I love to finish blocks and move guys downfield. I’m a do-it-all guy; I can play any position along the line at a high level."
As Plazz gears up for the next chapter in his football journey with the Miami Hurricanes, his words and aspirations, in his voice, paint a picture of a dedicated and versatile player, ready to leave an indelible mark in the orange and green. The anticipation builds as fans eagerly await the moment Plazz takes the field, ready to craft a legacy in the storied history of Miami Hurricanes football.
