2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Sy Alli IV, RB, Wheeling University

• Name: Sy Alli IV
• Position: RB
• College: Wheeling University
• Height: 6’1″
• Weight: 185 lbs
• Twitter: @SyAlli36
• Instagram: @sy_alli

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments from my football life are when my team secured our first program win in school history, as well as scoring an overtime touchdown on homecoming against our crosstown rivals. These are some of my favorite moments, because our team overcame much adversity in both moments and came back to secure both wins.

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I decided I wanted to be a football player after watching my cousin play little league football. When I was a kid I was able to go to games and watch his videos online. So, when I was old enough to play little league, I would try the same moves as the ones I have seen on video. He was the first person to put a football in my hand and I have loved the game ever since.

What sets you apart from other running backs?

My vision, patience, and ability to breaks tackles are what set me apart from other running backs. Every coach I’ve had has said, “You have to be able to make the first man miss”. This is a saying I take seriously. Another saying I was told in college and take seriously is “slow to, fast through”. This encourages me to read my blocks and once I find a hole, to hit it hard.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I would like to hang out with Najee Harris. He’s very chill tempered like myself and seems like a nice guy.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

The keys to success on the football field are training, commitment, studying and intensity. These keys apply to all aspects of football, and go hand in hand.

What should we know about Sy Alli the person?

That I am a very passionate and hardworking individual, who always wants to get better.

Which one of your family members influences you the most and why?

My mom has had the heaviest influence on me, she’s always taught me to keep fighting even through the hardest obstacles.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

My favorite offensive scheme is inside/outside zone run. I like these because it puts the choice on the ball carrier to find the right fit through the gaps.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I take a minute to understand the challenges being thrown my way. Once I do that, I look for ways to overcome the challenges and then I act accordingly.

What would a team get in a player like you?

I love to compete, whether it’s in class, practice, or in the game. I am very coachable and aware that their is still work to do. I also will put everything on the line for my team and do what needs to be done to win.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I’m looking forward to playing with my teammates one last season. Being on the first team in program history, my teammates and I went through many hardships, I was fortunate enough to make bonds that will last me a lifetime.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

The most underrated player I have played with is Jake Keenan. He is a very smart and physical player who puts the team first no matter the situation. He also has a very versatile skill set.