This past week, I got to interview Mississippi State football star- Nathan Pickering
Pickering is a 6’3, 305 lb Defensive Tackle from Seminary, MS. Pickering was a highly coveted prospect coming out of high school, in which he was ranked the 6th best Defensive tackle, and the 73rd best overall player in the Class of 2019 by 247 Sports.
The 4-star prospect held offers from some of the top schools in the country including Alabama, LSU, Clemson, Oregon and more. Pickering made an unexpected decision and chose to sign with Mississippi State.
In four seasons at Seminary High school, Pickering had nearly 300 TOT tackles and 115 TFL. He was a participant in the Opening Finals All-Star camp, Under Armour All-America Game, and the Alabama-Mississippi All-Star game.
Despite not starting, Pickering had a very promising freshman season at MSU. Amongst freshman Defensive Lineman in the SEC, his three sacks ranked first, and his 5.5 TFL ranked second most. Pickering was named to the 2019 SEC All-Freshman team. He joins Jeffrey Simmons, and Chris Jones as the last three players at MSU to earn this accolade.
Pickering should be in line for a starting role next season alongside red-shirt sophomore, Fabien Lovett. *Interview was done over Instagram DM.
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Q: In high school, you held 20+ D1 offers from schools like Alabama, LSU, Clemson, and Georgia. What made Mississippi State special and why did you decide to commit there?
That’s been my home since I first took a step on campus.
Q: You played against some great teams in your Freshman year, including Alabama, Auburn, LSU, and Ole Miss. You also played in the FAM Music City Bowl. What was your favorite game that you played in and why?
Most definitely the Egg Bowl. I’ve always wanted to play in that game and the atmosphere of the game is beyond comparison.
Q: After a promising Freshman season, you were named to the 2019 SEC All-Freshman team. What are some aspects in your game that you’re looking to build on, as well as improve?
Just getting a better feel of the game! I’m a freshman so I’m still adjusting to the speed of the game! I’m working getting my body ready and getting mentally prepared for it.
Q: What NFL player, past or present, would you say you model your game after?
Jeffery Simmons. The man is a monster and me playing the position he plays, I’m trying to model my game just as him.
Q: What are some goals you have for yourself and the team as you approach the 2020 season?
My ultimate goal is to win the SEC Championship and the National Championship and to make All-SEC team again!
Q: Off the field, what are some things that people may not know about you?
I play the guitar and I love country music!
Big thanks to Nathan for doing the interview!
Photo: Cam Smith/USA Today
