Miami has struggled in recent years with converting players to linebacker from other positions. One player who needs no such transition is Miami Central LB Ezekiel Marcelin. The 6’0, 190-pounder has been a multiyear starter for the Rockets and a key component of their dynasty. He spoke with CanesInSight about his game and recruiting process.
What are the strengths of your game?
How I take the soul of the leader, the quarterback. That's what I like doing the most, taking the soul of the quarterback. [In the running game], you can't run over me. [In the passing game], I'm gonna get in your way, so you can't pass over me either. Just me being there puts fear inside the offensive side of the ball.
What visits do you have set up?
I’m taking an official visit to Miami from May 28th to June 2nd. Miami is standing out to me, Penn State is standing out to me, Louisville (OV scheduled for June 21), Tennessee, USF. There's a couple of other schools, but that's really what's sticking out to me right now.
How is the relationship with the Miami staff?
It's been pretty good. They're trying to keep that Central to Miami pipeline going. They always treat my family well every time I visit. Coach Cristobal, Coach Derek Nicholson, they talk to me every week, and they communicate with me every day.
What would staying home mean to you and your family?
It would be a great feeling. Last year, when I went to some of the games and I saw [Reuben] Bain and his family cheering for him at home, it gave me a glimpse of what would happen if I go to Miami. I feel like that's a pretty great feeling. Bain told me it's a great feeling to have your family right there cheering for you while you're playing at Miami.
What advice do you get from Reuben Bain?
I feel like I can come in and do the same thing because of how hard he worked at Central. He says everything that he learned at Central, he took it home to Miami and it helped him do everything. He's been a leader at Central, what I'm doing right now. He's a very hard worker and I feel like that's what takes us to the next level.
What coaches do you talk to the most?
Coach Cristobal texts me every day. Coach Derek Nicholson texts me every day.
What about Sabbath Joseph (Miami linebacker QC/Analyst)?
That's like my uncle. Him and my dad grew up as children, so I just talk to him like he's my uncle every day.
What do you think of Coach Derek Nicholson and what he’s done with the linebackers?
He just felt like an old uncle to me, like at a barbecue or something. He offered me when he was at Louisville. He came down to Miami and offered me again, even though I had the offer already. It was a great feeling. He treats me very well, and I love the feeling of being around him. He's a great guy.
What do coaches tell you about your game?
They say I look pretty good with my feet and I look pretty good in coverage. Miami says they like my instincts and how I move and how I attack the ball. I can improve on getting better in coverage. I want to be more effective in the passing game..
What do you think of your new teammate, DT Floyd Boucard?
I don't think I'm going to get touched this year. Him and Randy [Adirika], they're going to keep the linemen off of me. I'm going to be free this year.
