2024 Season-Ending interview with Dereon Sanders from Ben Davis High School

 

Dereon Sanders

Ben Davis High School 

OT/OG/OC

2025

6’4 280

Awards won or earned

None

What were you feeling as you walked off the field for the last time as a member of the Ben Davis football team?

I felt grateful for having the privilege to be a part of the Ben Davis Football program. I remember seeing all my teammates upset, angry, and confused, but I just couldn’t feel that way even though that was my last time playing… HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL anyways. I don’t and will not ever take Ben Davis Football for granted, but with that being said, I know for myself that this is not my final time putting on the pads. It’s strictly about playing ball for me, no matter where it is. I’m blessed to have opportunities at the next level to keep doing what I love doing! 

What will you miss the most from playing high school football?

The close-knit bond with all of my teammates! Seeing the guys that I fought, cried, and shed blood with playing the game we love. I felt the strongest sense of brotherhood and tough love with my team. 

What was the highlight of your high school football career?

My junior year we faced IMG Academy, which I never thought would happen; in fact, it never crossed my mind that it could be a possibility. It was legendary to put it into words; the atmosphere was undeniably amazing.

What was the most disappointing moment of your high school career?

Losing a big game against Warren Central 24-27

Who was the best player that you ever faced in a game, along with the team he played on?

There was a D tackle on Lawrence Central, a big, stalky guy, number 99, Indiana State commit. He’s a dude on the DL! 

Who was the best team that you faced during your high school career, along with the things that made them so good?

IMG Academy for sure. Their defense didn’t have a special scheme for our offense. They had incredible team chemistry. Lined up in the same front the whole game against our guys and just played ball, simple as that. I thought it was amazing that they were able to do that.

What was it like playing at Lucas Oil Stadium?

It was amazing. Unreal experience. I had the most fun playing at Lucas Oil just knowing what the payout was and knowing that we had to dominate a lesser capable team to get that payout.

If you are invited, will you be playing in the North vs. South game? Explain

Yes, I would love to play one more game as a high school student!

What was the biggest lesson you learned from playing football?

Whatever you want or feel like you deserve will never come easy. It takes days and days of hard work and dedication prior. 

Which part of your game must you improve on before moving onto college ball?

My knee drive and posture on blocks recovery after workouts.

How is the recruiting process going?

It’s going great. I’m down to my final 3 colleges I’m thinking about committing to. I’m hoping to commit by the end of December.

Would you name some of the schools that you are hearing from, along with any offers?

Marian University 
University of Indianapolis 
Kentucky Wesleyan 
Gannon University 
Tuskegee University 
Saginaw Valley State University 

If there was no internet or cell phones, how would you handle it?

Me personally, I think I would handle it well. Probably would cause me to be more productive and make me have no choice but to focus on the stuff that really matters without my phone distracting me.

What is a skill or talent that you have that would shock those who know you?

At my size, I’m pretty good at doing flips on a trampoline.

What is your favorite current TV show?

One Piece 🍖