Diamond In The Rough: Landon O’Connor

Landon O’Connor is a class of 2021 6’ quarterback out of Catholic High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He has an accurate eye for the field as he knows how to make the right reads and throws. O’Connor also has skilled ability to use his athleticism and run the ball himself if he needs to. He is very competitive and aims to win and gain from anything he puts his energy towards. He is also the nephew of Ian Brian, who was the quarterback for Catholic High when they won the State Championship in 2015. O’Connor holds a 3.61 gpa and 25 on the act while still having an effective presence on Catholic High’s football team.

CHECK OUT LANDON IN THE 2021 QUARTERBACKS

At what age did you begin playing football and what motivated you to play?

I began playing around five of six. I started playing flag football. What motivated me to play the most was my family. We’ve always been a football family. My grandfather, uncle, and lots of my cousins played football at Southeastern. I looked up to them, especially one of my uncles that play quarterback at Catholic High. He was part of the 2015 team that won the state championship. I always just learned everything from him and I soak up what I can.

How do you think coaches and teammates would describe you as a player?

I think they would describe me as a competitor and a hard worker. All of my friends and teammates would probably say I’m the most competitive person that they know. It can be video games, volleyball or basketball, I will give my all. Doesn’t matter what we do, like drills or workouts, I will work my hardest. 

What advice would you give to younger players who want to play high school football one day?

I would tell younger players to keep working hard and enjoy the experience. Always work hard and keep God first. Keep your faith first and always soak everything up from your coaches.

Outside of sports, do you have any hobbies?

Outside of sports, my friends and I get involved in lots of sand volleyball tournaments. I also love playing basketball and video games.

What do you do in your offseason?

I work out and throw a lot. I work on my mechanics and throwing power.

Who is your favorite NFL or College athlete?

I would say Cam Newton. I love his playstyle. Watching him transition from Auburn to the NFL, I’m excited for his comeback this year. 

Do you have any specific personal goals for next season?

My goals are team orientated goals. I’m not really worried about myself and my stats. I just want us to win every single game possible, and win a state championship in the end. It’s really taking it one week at a time.

What are some pregame activities that your team does?

We get out there and run some exchanges with the running backs. We go over routes. About 15 minutes before the game, we usually run a couple of plays to get ready.

What would you say motivates you the most?

I would say coming up short in two state championship games while at Catholic High really motivates me. We came up short when I was a sophomore and when I was a junior. It was still great to see how hard we worked, but we just have to keep working.

What has football taught you about life?

Football has taught me many things. It has taught me not to let stuff bother you too much. You need to let it go. Another thing it’s taught me is that you have to work really hard in life. Football can translate to many things in life. You always need to work hard and be detail oriented. 

Have you thought of a major?

I have not zeroed in on anything yet, but i’m thinking about business.