2024 In-season interview with Leland Davis from Cincinnati Landmark Christian

Leland Davis 

Home-schooled

offensive guard, defensive tackle, center 

Class of 2026

Can you share with everyone how you came to be part of the Landmark Christian Football Program?

One of my good friends (Nigel Wright) from last year's team. I went to public school with him; he brought the program to my attention, and at the time I didn't play much at Western Hills and felt overlooked and doubted by a lot of people, so I made the move!!!

What makes play for Landmark Christians and Coach Goodpastor so special?

The brotherhood, the hearts of players on the team, the bonds that I've made with people I never thought I would coach. Goodpaster is the best coach I've had by far. He's not only a coach, but I look at him as a family member. He's there to listen and help in any situation. He can't explain how much he's helped and done for me in the 2 years I've been here. 

What were your goals entering the 2024 season?

My goals for this season were to become more coachable, build chemistry with the offensive line, be a dominant player that my coaches could count on, and also be able to step in on offense and defense and make a play. My last goal for this season was to push myself to my furthest win or lose.

What has been the highlight of the season?

The highlight of the season so far was beating the Columbus Crusaders twice in the regular season and in the second round of the playoffs to make it to the conference championship. That game was personal because my first year with the Crusaders last year I lost 3 times to them in 1 season...

Who has been the best player that you have faced in a game, along with the team he played on? 

The best player I've played against this year would be one of Christ's defensive tackles. I don't know his name, but he's #60. He gave me a challenge, and we went rep for rep. I won some and lost some. Iron sharpens iron is definitely the most competitive player I've played against so far.

How improbable was it for you guys to beat the Columbus Crusaders and get the number one seed for the game at Indiana Wesleyan this Saturday?

It was big for us to be honest, like I said earlier. They beat us three times last year, so for us to beat them for the number one seed and to get to the championship was big, honestly.

Can you share with everyone some of the bigger stadiums you have played in along with your favorite stadium?

I've played in AT&T Stadium this year, and Lucas Oil Stadium last year AT&T was by far the best; it was a day to remember.

What has been your biggest moment on the football field?

So far, probably this past week against Columbus in the second round. Playing both sides isn't easy, but when you want it, you gotta go get it, so I gave it my all out there and came out with the win!!!!

What do you believe is the toughest part of playing left guard?

honestly it's probably when I block for the designed play and the play goes the entire opposite way and gets stopped it makes me think I didn't do my job but in reality I did it's just the person/player with the ball seeing a gap or hole to run through.

What do you feel is the strongest part of your game?

The strongest part of my game is probably pass blocking, also knowing that my entire group/ offensive line is very good at that. We've set a goal before the season to under 5 sacks, and we've only let up 2 and we're 9 weeks in!!!

What is the toughest weather for a lineman to play in?

Most likely the cold weather linemen have to hit somebody with their hands every snap of the game, and the cold makes hits hurt more, especially if your fingers hit a helmet!!

Can you tell the readers about the home school championship that is played in Florida?

It's a very competitive game. Most teams from different states meet up and play other opponents in divisions 1–5. They've never played or only played a couple times. I honestly think those are where you meet your match because most of the time you know nothing about the teams; you only get 1 game of their film.

What are some of the things you do when not playing football?

I spend time with family and friends, get field work in, and workout. I have a lot of friends that play basketball, so we often run a couple pickup games.
Who are your role models?
 
My football role models are  Trent Williams , Chris Lindstrom   

My personal life role model is my mother, because no matter all the trials and tribulations that she's been through, she's always pushed and made a way for me and my siblings. 

What is your go-to snack? 

Apple sauce, hot chips