Interview with the newest Aztec, Cade Bennett

On Friday, San Diego State received a commitment from offensive lineman Cade Bennett as he announced his decision on social media. He transfers into the program from Oklahoma State, where he spent the last two seasons appearing in two games for the Cowboys. 

Originally from Scottsdale, Arizona, Bennett was a three-star prospect coming out of high school. He held offers from nearly every conference in America before playing in Stillwater.

On paper, Bennett’s commitment to the program mitigates the loss of Joey Capra. Capra, listed on the two-deep throughout the season, left following his redshirt sophomore season. Bennett enters the program as a sophomore with four years of eligibility.

Playing for Notre Dame Prep High School, Bennett was a two-way player on both sides of the line. On defense, he played a space-eating interior lineman. Facing constant double teams, Bennett’s tape shows a good understanding of how to get leverage. He also displays excellent strength. While engaged with the offensive lineman, Bennett frequently brought down running backs, who had a full head of steam, with only one arm. Former Stanford DL Harrison Philips would be a good comparison for his playing style on defense. 

Bennett brings that attacking mindset to the offensive side of the ball. Playing right guard, he was a mauler inside of the tackle box. Bennett was at his most ferocious pulling along the line. With a running start, he would punish would-be tacklers. For a team that rushed for 3,218 yards and 57 touchdowns his senior season, Bennett opened gaping hole after gaping hole. It is evident from his Hudl tape why he was such a sought-after recruit out of high school and in the transfer portal. 

Bennett joins a roster full of young, promising interior linemen at SDSU. Sebastian Hernandez, Ross Ulugalu-Maseuli, Kyle Trombley, and Josh Simmons are just a few of the players who will be looking to make an impact this season with the Aztecs. 

Bennett explained his decision to transfer to SDSU to East Village Times today. Here is the transcript of that interview.

Why did you choose SDSU?

I chose SDSU for a few reasons. It’s close to home, Coach Goff and staff are incredible, and the location is honestly pretty hard to beat.

SDSU recruited you out of high school. Did you consider the Aztecs then? Did their interest at that play any role this time around?

I definitely have always liked SDSU football. I remember seeing them boat race ASU back in the day with Rashad Penny. I was actually at that game and thought to myself way back then it would be a cool place to play. In high school recruiting, I definitely liked SDSU; it wasn’t at the top of my list, though.

What other schools were you considering?

I was considering a few Pac 12 schools, Penn State, SMU, and a slew of others.

For those who have not seen you play, how would you describe your game?

I try to use my physicality every play while I’m out on the field. I think my biggest strength is being a pure mauler.

Who was your primary recruiter at State? What is that person like?

My primary recruiters were Coach Razzano, Coach Goff, and Coach Hecklinski. They were awesome to me throughout this whole process!

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What are you focused on coming into a new program?

I’m focused on proving myself in the offseason to hopefully gain a starting spot on the team.

SDSU opens a new stadium this season. How excited are you to be part of the group that opens the new home? Did the stadium play a role in your decision?

I’m incredibly excited to make history with SnapDragon Stadium! I won’t say that is why I made my decision, but it definitely made it easier!

Paul Garrison

My earliest sport’s memory involve tailgating at the Murph, running down the circular exit ramps, and seeing the Padres, Chargers and Aztecs play. As a second generation Aztec, I am passionate about all things SDSU. Other interests include raising my four children, being a great husband and teaching high school.