Kyndel McKnight: A Q&A With North Chicago’s New QB1
If you’re looking for a confident, super athletic QB with a high football IQ, then look no further than North Chicago’s new QB1, who goes by the name of Kyndel McKnight. After transferring from Zion-Benton this past summer, the 6’1″…
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Continue ReadingIf you’re looking for a confident, super athletic QB with a high football IQ, then look no further than North Chicago’s new QB1, who goes by the name of Kyndel McKnight.
After transferring from Zion-Benton this past summer, the 6’1″ dual-threat is ready to put the state on notice and prove to everyone that he belongs in the conversation with the best QBs in the C/O ’21.
During our Q&A session, Kyndel spoke to me about what drives him to be the best player he can be, the goals he’s set for his senior year, how he’s going to benefit from running the triple-option this season, and much more…
When did you first start playing football?
I first started playing for the Junior Bulldogs when I was about 7 or 8. I played pretty much all the skilled positions, but my first true position was QB.
Describe Kyndel McKnight the football player?
I have a very high football IQ. I feel I’m always in control when I’m on the field and in the huddle. I always try and execute whatever game plan the coach has put in place. I make plays when I need to make plays and I love getting the ball to my playmakers. Overall, I love taking control of the game and having fun; the having fun part is really important to me.
Who’s your favorite NFL QB, and why?
Lamar is my guy. I’ve been a fan of his since the Louisville days. I was also a big Steve Mcnair fan and I love Cam Newton, but right now, its got to be Lamar.
QB is a tough position to play, probably the most challenging position on the field. In your opinion, is it mentally or physically tougher to prepare to play the QB position?
The mental aspect is definitely the biggest challenge. All the physical stuff you can go on the field and work on it, or you can be the best athlete and get away with stuff. But if you aren’t smart up top, don’t know what everybody on the field, and you can’t read defenses, then you’re not going to be successful at this position.
Which area of your game has seen the most improvement since last season?
Most definitely my throwing. I’ve been working with Byron over at QBWON and he has gotten me where I need to be. It’s a night and day difference with my throwing from this time last year. My head coach has also put a lot of time in with me when it comes to reading defenses, so I’ve gotten a lot better at that as well.
Everything is kind of out of whack with the season being delayed; what are you doing to ensure you’re physically and mentally ready when the season starts in March?
Getting in the weight room is critical, and also just getting with some of the guys and going over film of the teams we’re going to be playing in the spring. Just trying to understand what they’re seeing and giving my take on it so we can be prepared once March gets here.
Talk about what motivates and drives you to be the best player you can be?
I’m uber-competitive, so when I see all these other guys getting looks and getting interviews, I’m thinking to myself, I know I’m better than half of those guys. I’m always trying to better myself while competing with the next guy without him even knowing. And most of all, I want to make it out of Lake County.
So you played for Zion last year, and this past summer, you transferred over to the cross-town rival North Chicago. Talk about that whole transition of getting to know your new team and getting yourself acclimated with the coaching staff?
My dad is from North Chicago so I’ve known many of the staff and players for a long time now, so getting to know everyone wasn’t that big of an adjustment; it was pretty smooth, and they made it really comfortable for me. Running a new offense can get tricky at times, but they broke it down pretty well. They also put a lot of time in with me after practice to make sure I’m on the right track.
Talk about the new offense and how you can see yourself benefiting from it?
We’re running the triple option and I consider myself a running QB so it’s a perfect match in my eyes. But we’re also going to air it out so it’s almost like the best of both worlds.
Tell me about some of your personal and team goals for the upcoming season?
As far as personal goals, I’ve always wanted to make an all-state team. From a team perspective, I really do feel we got the right pieces to make a run towards a state title; the ultimate goal is always to win a championship. And on a smaller scale I know we can take over as the number 1 team in our conference.
Do you feel you’re one of the best QBs in the conference, county, and state?
Yes, Yes, and Yes! I know I’m flying under the radar but my film is going to speak for itself when it’s time to play.
Where would be your dream school to play for?
I’m down to play for whoever takes a chance on me, but it would be Alabama if I had to pick. I got family in Alabama, so I’ve always wanted to get down there and play for Sabin.