[2023] Week 7 POTW

SageBow · July 20, 2023

Week 7 OPOTW

RB Richard Bianchi, HAWI, 25 carries for 298 yards, 4 TD, 3 receptions for 10 yards, 1 TD in a 34-10 W vs #23 San Jose State

Congratulations, Richard, on being awarded the National Offensive Player of the Week. How does it feel to earn such a prestigious accolade?

Thank you! It's an incredible honor to receive this award. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of not only myself but also my teammates and coaches. Football is a team sport, and this recognition wouldn't have been possible without their support and efforts on the field.

Absolutely, football is a team effort, and your performance undoubtedly made a significant impact. Can you take us through that electrifying game against #23 San Jose State?

That game was truly something special. We knew it was going to be a tough matchup, but we had prepared well throughout the week and were confident in our abilities. As a running back, my primary goal is to contribute to the team's success, and I was fortunate to have some fantastic blocking from the offensive line, which created opportunities for me to make big plays.

Indeed, your offensive line played a crucial role in your success. How did it feel to have a record-breaking game with those 298 rushing yards?

It was surreal, to be honest. Breaking records and achieving personal milestones are great, but the most satisfying part was knowing that my performance helped the team secure an important victory. We've been working hard as a team all season, and this game was a significant moment for all of us.

Your performance wasn't limited to rushing yards; you also scored a touchdown through receptions. How do you manage to be such a versatile player on the field?

Being a versatile player is something I've always strived for. I work on different aspects of my game in practice to become a well-rounded player. The coaching staff at Hawaii has played a crucial role in developing my skills, and I'm grateful for their guidance. My goal is always to be a threat in different aspects of the game, whether it's running, catching passes, or blocking.

Your dedication and hard work are evident in your play. Looking ahead, what are your goals for the rest of the season?

As a senior, this is my final year of college football, so I want to make the most of it. My main goal is to help lead the team to success and compete at the highest level. We're aiming for a conference championship and, hopefully, a spot in the national playoffs. Personally, I want to continue improving and contributing to the team's success in any way I can.

Well, we'll certainly be keeping an eye on you and your team's progress throughout the season. Lastly, is there anything you'd like to say to your fans and supporters?

To all the fans and supporters, thank you for your unwavering encouragement and belief in our team. Your support means the world to us, and we'll continue working hard to make you proud. We feed off your energy and can't wait to share more exciting moments with you this season. Go Hawaii!

Week 7 DPOTW

CB Ryan Cervelli, WAKE, 6 Tackles, 3 INT, 1 TD in a 31-28 W vs Georgia Tech

Congratulations on your remarkable performance, Ryan! How does it feel to be recognized as the National Defensive Player of the Week?

Thank you! It's truly an incredible feeling to receive this recognition. I owe it all to my teammates and coaches who push me to perform at my best every day. This award is a testament to our collective efforts on the field, and I couldn't be prouder.

Your stat line in that game was nothing short of extraordinary. Can you walk us through the moments when you secured those three interceptions?

It was an intense game, and our defense was focused on capitalizing on every opportunity. The first interception happened in the first quarter. I read the quarterback's eyes and anticipated the throw, managed to jump the route, and came down with the ball, and returned it for a touchdown. The second one was in the fourth quarter. Our defensive line applied relentless pressure, which forced the quarterback into making a hurried throw. I adjusted my position and made the pick. As for the third one, it was in the final minutes of the game. Georgia Tech was driving down the field, trying to win, but I managed to made what would be the game-sealing interception. The offense kept the ball long enough to make any kind of Georgia Tech comeback impossible. It was a surreal feeling, and I'm thankful I could make a significant impact.

Impressive indeed! You must have had an intense week of preparation leading up to the game. How did you and your team approach facing such a formidable opponent?

Absolutely! Facing Georgia Tech was a significant challenge. We knew they had a potent offense led by O'Koyea Landrum, so preparation was key. Our coaching staff devised a comprehensive game plan, and we worked diligently to understand their tendencies and formations. Film study played a crucial role in helping us anticipate their plays and exploit any weaknesses. Throughout the week, we pushed ourselves in practice, focusing on execution and communication on the field.

Your contributions not only in the game but also in practice have surely made a difference. As a junior, how do you see yourself stepping into a leadership role on the team?

Leadership is about setting the right example, both on and off the field. I try to be a reliable teammate and a source of motivation for the younger players. In practice, I encourage open communication and support our collective growth. We have a close-knit group, and I believe that fostering a positive environment helps everyone perform at their best.

Well said! With such an outstanding performance, you must have garnered the attention of scouts at the next level. What are your long-term goals, and how do you plan to continue your success on the field?

My long-term goal has always been to play at the professional level. However, for now, my focus remains on our current season at Wake Forest. I want to continue improving, honing my skills, and contributing to the team's success. Whatever the future holds, I know that hard work, dedication, and a team-first mentality will guide me towards achieving my dreams.

That's a fantastic mindset to have, Ryan. One last question before we conclude – is there anything you would like to say to the fans who have been supporting you and the team?

To all the fans out there, thank you for your unwavering support. Your cheers from the stands and messages of encouragement mean the world to us. We play for you, and we'll continue to give it our all every time we step onto the field. Together, we'll keep pushing towards greatness!

This article written with the help of ChatGPT

Week 0 POTWs - RB Elijah Wendelken, ARK / SS Jalyn Jones, NW

Week 1 POTWs - QB Julian Longacre, USC / DT Jatavis Gabriel, CINC

Week 2 POTWs - QB Brandon Savage, TENN / DT Mike LeVert, MSST

Week 3 POTWs - RB Mitchell Reynolds, KSST / DE Marco Spruill, GRAM

Week 4 POTWs - QB Hiram Maronde, UCLA / DT Colton Rankin, FSU

Week 5 POTWs - QB Andrew Moncrief, AUB / OLB Jomal Diggs, ND

Week 6 POTWs - QB Travis Knebel, BAYL / DT Dante Williams, WISC