2025 Interview with state champion Liam Hayward from Olentangy Liberty High School

 

Liam Hayward

Olentangy Liberty High School

Offensive Line (OL)

2026

6’2 270

Jersey Number #66

Awards won or earned: All-OCC, All-County, All-District

What will you miss the most from the 2025 class?

Definitely their mentality and the way they approached the game. They played with intensity every day and always held me accountable. They pushed me to be better, and such leadership is something I appreciated.

What did you learn about yourself last season that you can use to be a better player this season?

I realized how much of this game is mental—about 70% mental and 30% physical. Strength and footwork matter, but they come from mental preparation. Watching film, studying the playbook, asking questions, and being locked in mentally and envisioning how the game will go made a huge difference in my performance. When the pressure's on, your mind is what gets you through.

As the clock was winding down and you knew that your team was going to win the state title, what were your thoughts?

It honestly didn’t feel real. I was proud of our team and everything we went through to get there. From day one after last season ended, we were putting in the work. I wish I could relive those final moments—it was the payoff for everything we’d sacrificed.

What is the strongest part of your game?

I’d say my footwork and football IQ. Strength helps, but good footwork and smart decision-making are what set players apart. I take pride in knowing my assignments and making sure our quarterback is protected. If something breaks down because of mental mistakes, that’s on us.

What have you accomplished so far during the off-season that you can use to be a dominant player this season?

Even with an off-season surgery, I’ve been focusing on what I can control—my mindset, film study, and rehab. I've started to get back into lifting and agility twice a day and feel great. I'm working every day to come back stronger and more prepared than ever.

Which is harder to prepare for, the offensive or the defensive line?

I’ve played both, and without a doubt, offensive line is harder. There’s more variation, more adjustments. You have to be locked in on every single play.

If the game is on the line, do you want to be on offense or defense?

Offense. I love the pressure of making a final drive and scoring in the final seconds. That’s the best feeling in football.

What makes you a good teammate?

I bring love and accountability. Without both, you don’t have a real team. If your teammates know you care about them, they’ll trust you to push them and help them get better. That’s how strong cultures are built.

How long did it take you to recover from such a long 2024 season?

It definitely took some time, but that’s part of football. It’s a mentally and physically tough sport, and sometimes you have to play through pain. That’s what makes it special.

If you could take one home game and move it to any stadium in the country, where are you playing that game?

I’d pick SoFi Stadium. It’s the newest and has the most advanced technology.

If you are invited to any of the all-star games after the season, will you go?

Absolutely. Any opportunity to play more football is something I’d jump at.

Would you share with everyone some of the colleges you are being recruited by?

I’m currently in contact with schools across every level of college football. I'm grateful for all the coaches who’ve reached out and expressed interest—it means a lot.

What is your favorite animal?

I would say a gorilla is pretty cool.

What is your favorite sports show or movie?

I really like The Blind Side.

Where is the best spot in town to grab a pizza?

Brooklyn Pizza. I was born in New Jersey, so I know good pizza, and they’ve got it.

 Follow me on X @HEARTLANDFAN15

For all of my sports coverage

Two free good sports message boards

Yappi.com

Southeasternohiopreps.com