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USports Spotlight of the Day: Isaiah Smith, RB, Guelph

Isaiah Smith, RB, Guelph
Isaiah Smith the star running back from the University of Guelph is a very intriguing prospect with great lateral movement. Check out this interview with NFL Draft Diamonds scout Naol Denko.
  • Name: Isaiah Smith
  • Position: Running Back
  • College: University of Guelph
  • Height: 6’0
  • Weight: 213 pounds

Hello Isaiah! Thanks for taking the time to speak with me. How are you doing? What are you up to these days? Please introduce yourself to our readers!

Hey Naol! I’m good. How are you? My name is Isaiah Smith. I’m from Burlington, Ontario.  I am currently finishing up my first year of the Human Kinetics program at the University of Guelph.

I’m doing well! Thank you! So, what got you into football? & Why do you enjoy playing football?

I became interested in football at a young age because my family are big fans of the sport. I started off by playing flag football, but switched to tackle when I was 8 years old. I enjoy playing because I get to tap into my competitive side, and also because I have formed some long-lasting friendships with players and coaches.

What are your goals as a football player and as an overall person?

My football and personal goals are pretty much aligned. I am always trying to improve so that I can be the best version of myself and because I want to have a positive impact on the people around me, whether it’s my family, friends, or teammates. This past season I won OUA Rookie of the Year, which was a great personal achievement, but I have no intention of resting on my laurels. I plan on working even harder in future seasons, so that I have a chance of earning other awards like Academic All-Canadian and MVP honours. I also want to hoist the Yates and Vanier cups with my teammates. After I graduate, I want to play professionally in whichever league will have me. I also want to help younger athletes tap into their potential and realize their dreams.

How do you feel going into your 2nd year at Guelph?

I feel good.  My first year has been a bit of a learning curve having to adjust to university life both on and off the field, but now that I know what to expect. I will take everything that I have learned so far and build on it. I intend to go into my 2nd year way more confident, stronger, faster, and have a better understanding of how to read a defense.

What was your best game last season? How did you feel after the game?

My most memorable game was when we played against Windsor in week two.  I had my longest run that game and finished with 119 yards rushing and 2 touchdowns. Unfortunately, we didn’t come out with a W, so it was a bittersweet moment.

What’s your typical fitness routine?

Now that it’s the off-season, I lift and do field work with my team several times a week.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

Most definitely zone schemes because they allow me to move more freely in the backfield. Some of my teammates have called me ‘Lil Le’Veon’ because of my tendency to wait and then strike where I anticipate that my o-line will open up a hole for me.

What would you tell a team during a draft interview?

I would be an asset to their team, because I’m all about working hard and continuously working on improving my skills.

What would you tell aspiring football athletes?

The only person standing in the way of you achieving your dreams is you. So once you set a goal for yourself be ready and willing to put in the work to get where you want to go. I read a quote once that really resonated with me and sums this point up nicely “Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t.“ Jerry Rice

What’s your Twitter/Instagram? So, any potential fans/scouts can check you out!

I’m not a big social media guy but my Twitter handle is @I_Smith24 and my Instagram is @ismith._

Thanks for speaking with me! All the best with your football career!

Thank you Naol!  I really like that you are shining a light on USports players. Thanks for reaching out and including me.

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