INLAND FIELDHOUSE

PHOTO by MILKA SOKO

Take a closer look at Temecula Valley senior LB/TE Anson Pulsipher and you’ll usually see the best all-around football player in that game on that day.

Pulsipher dominates as the leader of Temecula Valley’s defense, and can always be counted on for a big play for the Golden Bears (4-0 overall), who are enjoying an unbeaten record through four games for the first time in more than 10 years.

The 6-foot, 210-pound linebacker is quick to the ball and likes to drop into coverage almost as much as he enjoy blitzing from the edges. A menace to find in disguised coverages, Pulsipher grabs interceptions and sacks in equal number.

We caught up with Pulsipher after Temecula Valley’s 16-12 victory over Riverside Norte Vista in Week 3 on Friday, Sept. 13. Pulsipher had 18 total tackles (eight solo) and one sack, with his late interception sealing the victory for the Bear.

InlandFieldhouse.com: It was a tough test out there tonight but what did it take to get ?
Anson Pulsipher: “It’s different playing against smash-mouth football when you’re used to playing against spread and throwing the ball, but we stepped up to the challenge and came away for the victory.”

IF: How did you prepare for Norte Vista’s style?
AP: “It was inside box. We had a chute that we lowered and we’d run plays under that, the whole defense. Just getting low and hitting hard.”

IF: How far has the team come so far this season?
AP: “I think we’re doing great. 4-and-0 definitely gives us some confidence that maybe last year we had but in previous years we didn’t. I think that’s good.”

IF: Do you see your role as that of a leader for this team?
AP: “Absolutely. Being one of the captains plays an impact. Doing your job and motivating others to do theirs.”

IF: What’s it going to take for this team to advance another step this season?
AP: “I think we need to come together, play hard, bring everyone together. As you can see, when we play together we play well.”

IF: A come-from-behind victory will come in handy down the line then, right?
AP: “I think it’s definitely motivation. As coach just said, ‘Sometimes being scared is good,’ and definitely coming from behind in good.”

IF: Is it your goal to play after this season?
AP: “I’d like to play in college. I have a few options so I’ll see where it takes me. I have an offer from San Jose State, and a few Ivy Leagues are looking at me – Stanford – and some local FCS schools.”