2025 Interview with Alex Otero from Cedar Cliff (PA).

 

Name: Alex Otero

School: Cedar Cliff High School

Positions played: RB, OLB,

Class of 2026

Height and Weight: 5’8”, 180

Jersey Number: 26

Awards won or earned: Academically: Distinguished Honor Roll (2022-2023 Grade 9) Honor Roll (2024-2025 Grade 11) Junior Honor Society (2022) Athletically: None yet, looking to earn some this year.

HUDL LINK: http://www.hudl.com/v/2RdTtg

Post a small recap of last season with personal highlights and any other big moments you have and memories you have from last season, whether it be a game, the bus ride to or from the game, or any other thing that sticks out.

Last season was a big turning point for me. I started the year behind two talented running backs on the depth chart, but when both went down with injuries, I stepped into the starting role for 3 games and made the most of the opportunity. The moment that really sticks with me was the game against Carlisle. I came out strong and rushed for over 100 yards in just the first half. That game gave me confidence and proved to myself and my team that I could step up when it mattered. I'm proud of how I responded when my number was called, and I'm using that momentum heading into this season as I'm competing for the starting spot and currently splitting carries evenly.

What is the best part of being a student-athlete at Cedar Cliff High School?

The community and the students, the way they show out for the games, and the environment they create on game day are enough to make you want to perform.

What is the toughest aspect of being a student-athlete?

Balancing schoolwork with practice and games. It’s a full-time commitment on both ends, and managing time effectively is definitely the hardest part.

What are your goals for the season?

To be consistent and take advantage of every opportunity every game, I'm looking to get at least 100 yards per game regardless of the amount of carries I get. And to continue to improve my skills and contribute on both sides of the ball.

What goals are you setting for your team?

To stay united and mentally tough no matter the outcome or score of games, to push each other to our highest potential, and to keep competing until the last whistle.

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

Probably Messiah Mickens, an RB/DE from Harrisburg High School. He was a statement player on both sides of the ball and made you pay for any mistake you made.

Where should the state finals be held?

At Penn State's stadium with a big atmosphere, so it feels like a true championship experience.

What motivates you to play the game of football?

The love and passion of the game. I love everything about football and spend a lot of time being a student of it and learning how to get better. Also the brotherhood between teammates. I’ve been playing football since I was 5 and still know players from that first team and have supported them, played against them, and seen how successful they are.

What has been your biggest moment as an athlete?

Freshman year, scoring 4 times in one game, it was the best game I’ve had so far.

What's been your most embarrassing moment as an athlete?

Catching the ball out of the backfield and instantly getting hit when I turned upfield.

Is there a college or pro player that you pattern your game after?

As a running back, I try to model myself after many players for their individual playing styles. NFL players I look up to are Saquon Barkley, Alvin Kamara, and Le’Veon Bell. College players I look up to are Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton, and Jaydon Blue.

If you are invited to play in any of the all-star games following the season, will you?

Absolutely. It would be an honor to showcase my skills and compete with the best.

What is your game day routine?

I like to wake up early and eat a good breakfast while visualizing plays or situations that could happen in the game. I listen to music throughout the day, stretch, and watch film to get focused. And I spend a few moments just calming my mind and listening to music before warmups.

What is your favorite subject or class?

It would be criminology. It was very interesting, and I learned a lot.

What is your go-to snack?

Cheez-Its and Animal Crackers.

Who are your favorite and least favorite NFL teams?

My favorite NFL team is the Dallas Cowboys; that was my childhood team. Also, I like the Lions because of the way they turned their program around, and every game is high-scoring. My least favorite team is the Kansas City Chiefs.

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