Jake Rizzo’s senior season was filled with big-time accomplishments.
Rizzo earned Louisiana first-team honors as a defensive end, was named district defensive MVP and helped Dunham to the state 2A championship.
Now, Rizzo can add another achievement to his senior year. Rizzo announced his commitment to Army Sunday. He gave his verbal commitment to coach Jeff Monken at the end of his official visit last weekend.
“The campus was beautiful, the developmental program is top tier and all of the guys (players) are like-minded,” Rizzo said. “West Point sets guys up for a successful career after college like no one else.”
Army started recruiting Rizzo when offensive line coach Mike Viti visited in April. One month later, Viti returned to Dunham High School and facetimed Monken, who offered Rizzo. Air Force and Colorado also offered Rizzo. Rizzo said he “was considering” Air Force.
“I just think West Point gave me the most opportunities to grow as a player and person and in general,” said Rizzo, who had 10 sacks in 2022.
Rizzo, who also was asked to play tight end for Dunham, finished his third season as a starter and second on the defensive line. He believes Army’s defense can take advantage of one of his best skills – getting after the quarterback.
“I love the scheme and the position (DAWG) they are recruiting me at,” Rizzo said. “I feel like my strength is pass rushing and that is what that position is made for.”
Rizzo, who will be a direct admit, carries a 4.3 grade-point average and scored 1,520 on his SAT. The Baton Rogue, La. commit grew up rooting for LSU, attending three to four games a year. Rizzo said he’s “not much (of a fan) anymore.”
He’s a future Army football player, who hopes to suit up for the Black Knights when they play at LSU on Oct. 21 in Death Valley.
“It will definitely be awesome to play in such a great venue that I am familiar with,” Rizzo said.
7state finals
