2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Manny Bunch, S, University of Tulsa
Student-Athlete Profile:
- Manny Bunch
- University of Tulsa
- SS
- 6’1”
- 201 LBS.
- Hometown: Roland, OK
- Twitter: @MannyBunch
2019 Statistics:
- GP: 12
- GS: 12
- Total Tackles: 57
- TFL: 2.0
- PBU: 5
- PD: 5
- QBH: 1
- FR: 1
- FF: 1
You grew up 112 miles East of Tulsa. Was that the main selling-point for continuing your education?
Yes, it was big for me and my family. I wanted my parents to be able to attend at least all of my home games with no problems and being that close to home allowed them to do that.
What separates you from other players at the Safety position?
Versatility, I’m able to play both Free Safety and Strong Safety. During games, you will see me as a middle-of-field safety, a box safety, edge support safety, zone safety, and also manning up on slots essentially playing slot corner. The other thing is consistency. I line up and do my assignment every play and after I have done my assignment I try to help somewhere else.
Tell me a little bit about your experience with the Coaching Staff. How does Coach Montgomery motivate the team? What have you learned under Coach Buckels?
Coach Montgomery compares every game to a fight and motivates us through that way. I have learned a lot under Coach Buckels, he is really big on technique and knowledge of the defense. Foot placement and staying square are just a few of a lot of things that he coaches.
Who is the toughest player you’ve competed against during your collegiate career?
James Washington.
I’ve read your favorite NFL player in NY Jets Safety Jamal Adams. What about his game makes him so special and how do you emulate his style of play into your own?
His versatility and a high motor. I’m in a defense where I am asked to do a lot of different things and that in itself makes me versatile. And just having a sense of urgency on the field to get to the ball.
You’re a Marketing major. When football comes to an end, what do you see yourself doing?
I want to either be a coach or a marketing manager for a sports team.
Let’s take a trip back to the first day of your freshman year at Roland High School. What advice would you give yourself then, knowing what you know now?
I would just tell myself that all the hard work you’re going to do is all going to pay off.
I’ve read your favorite actress is Blake Lively. Her husband, Ryan Reynolds, has portrayed both Green Lantern and Deadpool on the big screen. What would be the one superpower you’d like to have?
Not really a power but I would just be a Jedi.
If I’m in Tulsa on a Saturday night during the Fall, where is the one place I have to eat at?
Society.
You’re in front of all 32 NFL General Managers and have 15 words or less to give them your pitch on why Manny Bunch will be an asset to their organization for years to come. What do you tell them?
I’m prepared to play any position in the NFL to make my dreams come true.
