Get To Know Danny O’Neil. Indiana’s #1 QB & Nat’l Recruit
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I was fortunate enough to sit down with Danny O’Neil Danny O’Neil 6'1" | 185 lbs | QB Cathedral | 2024 State IN earlier this week & get to know him a little bit. On the field, there’s everything to…
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Continue ReadingI was fortunate enough to sit down with Danny O’Neil Danny O’Neil 6'1" | 185 lbs | QB Cathedral | 2024 State IN earlier this week & get to know him a little bit. On the field, there’s everything to like, and for good reason. Off the field, no different. O’Neil is a humble, hardworking, Indiana recruit looking to pave his way while putting in the hard work. My conversation with him was pleasant as he’s down to earth, all football, and isn’t afraid to critique himself. I mixed in some easy going questions as we went back and forth just to have some fun with it and get his take.
What does football mean to you?
O’Neil: “Everything. I’ve been playing it since I was 3-4 years old and watched the Colts Super Bowl on repeat. That was the start of everything and I never looked back.”
What’s the #1 thing you want from a collegiate program/university?
O’Neil: The chance to compete for the starting job. Not just given it, but a fair shot to compete. A stable staff who can help build up my skillset and truly wants me there.”
Favorite Food?
O’Neil: “Pasta always hits the spot.”
Favorite Snack?
O’Neil: “Goldfish. Xtracheddar.”
Why #18? If Peyton, what about his game do you most hope to emulate?
O’Neil: “The high standards he brought every day and the way he was able to elevate those around him.”
Do you feel your mobility is underrated? 600 rushing yards and 19 TDs in 2 years.
O’Neil: “Yes, I mainly extend plays to keep my eyes downfield and see if something opens up, but it also depends on D&D, Coverage being played, and if the scenario of each play. 3rd & 1 I’m much more likely to be aggressive with my legs than I would on 4th & 9.“
Day to yourself, what do you do?
O’Neil: “In season, watch film and some team activity. Out of season, probably just decompress doing some bass fishing.”
1 area you’d like to improve this upcoming fall?
O’Neil. “Anticipation. Well, anticipation and comfort-ability in the pocket. When I know I’m going to take a big shot, stand in there and deliver the ball. Being able to anticipate those throws and take those shots.”
While I’m not able to write down and get everything on paper, I came away with the interview very impressed. First, the way he’s mentally wired is exactly what you’re looking for in a young QB. Time and time again, he’d answer whether or not he was in season or out of season. Then, when asked more or less vague football questions where I was expecting a shorter answer back, he was hitting me with more details such as down and distance, coverage, defensive alignment, etc. than I anticipated. But, I loved it. It not only made me happy, but made me chuckle because I realized at that moment, why he is so highly sought after. His tape speaks for itself. Everything with him is natural, easy going, and you can see why right away he’s one of the quickest rising recruits in the country. He heads into the 2024 season already rewritten most of the record book while guiding Cathedral to 2 State Titles to this point. I’m not sure how anyone can see the body of work O’Neil has, his arm talent, his level of intelligence, down to earth demeanor, and obsession to the details and walk away without offering him. O’Neil truly is one of the best recruits in the entire country, let alone the state of Indiana.