Football Q&A: Corey Gaynor
October 4, 2023 | Football
Player: Corey Gaynor
Position: Offensive Line
Hometown: Parkland, Fla.
Number: 65
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What is it like playing in front of fans at Kenan Stadium?
There is nothing like playing in front of a home crowd. This year, the fans at Kenan have been awesome and we need them to continue to be awesome these next three weeks.
Thoughts on the offense so far this season?
I think we've been doing some good things but we haven't been great yet. Once we begin to get some guys back, I think we will continue to improve. We haven't played our best game yet but we are working everyday in order to do so.
What is the Florida activity you miss most?
Being able to be outside in a pool at all times of the year. Here, the cutoff is coming if it hasn't already passed. I miss the year-round pool access the most.
When you visit home in Florida, what do you like to do in your free time?
I'll start with spending some down time with my family. If football is on, we will definitely be tuning in. If it's nice outside, my family or friends would make our way to the beach at some point. Nothing crazy, family, football, some food and the beach.
Greatest football moment before college?
My team won the 110 lbs. Football State Championship in 2009. In high school, we didn't win anything so that was probably the pinnacle of my South Florida sports upbringing.
Who introduced you to the game of football?
In 2007, my brother played football for the first time and 2008 was my first year. I watched my brother play for a year and he inspired me to play. When we both started playing, my dad had a football in his hands and said "Guys, see this football? You two will never touch it" (meaning that we were both going to be playing offensive line). Now, I touch the ball every play. That moment comes back to me a lot.
As a center, how many things happen before the ball is snapped?
You're looking at fronts and placements of everyone on defense. You start close and work your way to the second and third levels and then start looking side-to-side. After all that, you then have to relay it to the other lineman, backs, tight ends and anyone else who needs to hear it.Â
Do you feel like the offense is more efficient this season like the stats show?
Yes. As a whole we are helping Drake (Maye) out more this year as an offense. Last year, we relied a lot on Drake's arm to make plays. Now, I feel like we are picking up the slack for him and giving him and the coaches the ability to use the multitude of guys that we have to score points.
Corey's professional plans after football is finished?
Right now, I am focusing on football. I have a couple ideas but I'll have time to figure that out. Our team is too good right now to begin thinking past this football season.
What is the one thing that you can beat anyone in the locker room in?
Billiards. My dad is a retired police officer and in his free time he plays pool. He taught me how to play along with the ability to sucker people into thinking they can beat me.
