2023 Small School Prospect Spotlight Interview: Michael Scott, LB, University of South Dakota

Hello, Justin Berendzen from Draft Diamonds showcasing a small school player in the upcoming draft that is deserving of getting an opportunity check out my interview below with Michael Scott the hard-hitting linebacker from the University of South Dakota.

• Name: Michael Scott
• Position: LB
• College: University of South Dakota
• Height: 6’1 1/2”
• Weight: 240 lbs
• Twitter: @mike_5scott
• Instagram: @mike_5scott

What should we know about Mike Scott the person?

I think the biggest thing to know about me is that I am a competitor. Whether it’s a game of uno, a practice, or a football game I am always ready to compete in whatever I do. This was instilled in me from a young age by my parents and through competing with my older brother. Another big thing to know about me is that I love people and I care about my fellow man, I want help the people around me be successful whether that’s a teammate on the field or a friend. I believe that we all benefit when everyone is at their best. And that also goes into just giving back to my community wanting to help out when I can. 

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Going forward as I transition to the next level, I want to first make the roster for one of the 32 teams. But ultimately, I want to compete to play a lot of snaps at a high level and win a lot of football games while doing it.

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

The most underrated player I’ve played with is probably the running Teon Dollard from the University of Akron. He was a running back for us when I played there, and he was a game changing player. He was dynamic out the backfield and could always make the first guy miss. Me and him would talk trash and compete at practice and I think he was a player that made me better. And pushed the team forward when he was on the field. 

How are you planning to prepare for the draft?

I’m back home in Tallahassee right now training with my trainer Travis Norton getting in shape and staying sharp on the field with a trainer Terrell Powell. My main focus is staying ready for when my opportunity comes so that I can take full advantage of it.

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

I like to look at everything with a glass half full mentality, there is always something to be grateful about and so I try to focus on the positives in any situation. My biggest defense against my challenges in life or on the field is my “WHY”. My family and my personal drive to always be improving helps me stay cool through any situation.