Bear Insider Video: Cal Frosh CB Lu-Magia Hearns
When the Bears garnered a commitment in 2020 from De La Salle senior Lu-Magia Hears, the then 5-8/150 cornerback was a bit off the radar. But the Bears knew they had a hidden gem in the talented two-way standout.
In his abbreviated six game senior season last spring, the talented Hearns made quite a splash.
“I had two kickoff return touchdowns, two interceptions -one for a pick six- and three receiving touchdowns off of four catches,” noted Hearns.
Now 5-10/160, Hearns is rapidly adapting to his new home just 20 miles from hometown of Pittsburg.
“It’s been pretty smooth,” said Hearns of his transition to Cal. “I think De La Salle did a good job preparing me for college work, putting in hard work, having a strict schedule all the time. So it’s been pretty smooth.”
The frosh corner is impressed with the DB talent he’s surrounded by since his arrival at Cal, starting with a veteran starters group of senior corner Josh Drayden, junior corner Chigi Anusiem and senior safeties Elijiah Hicks and Daniel Scott.
“I think it’s a great unit, honestly,” said Hearns. “I feel like the older guys do a good job of mentoring the younger guys, and the younger guys, myself included, do a good job of retaining the information and trying to apply it to our game.”
As for his personal skillset, Hearns noted: “I would say my speed, obviously. I think I’m overlooked as far as my ability to jump and play physical.”
Hearns noted that the staff has broached the subject of him possibly returning kicks at some point but don’t want to put too much on his plate too early.
As for his primary focus in fall camp, Hearns noted: “My intent of how you approach the game everyday and approach the day as far as taking the little things -your assignments- and really mastering that instead of worrying about the big picture. So just take the little things and apply that and you’ll be good.”
Hearns is the son of former Pittsburg High star receiver Lu Hearns, who was a standout for the Pirates in the 90s.
Does dad ever compare their games and talk about old times?
“You’d be surprised,” said Hearns. “He doesn't really talk too much about football anymore. We talk about it, but he just gives me my props for doing good. I think when I was younger, he was a great mentor because he coached me all throughout my youth. Him being around and his presence and watching his tapes - I grew up watching all his highlights - so that’s what put me on the path I’m on today.”
Does Hearns see any similarities to his father’s game?
“I would say he was a lot more physical than I was,” said Hearns of his dad. “He was a little stockier. But for the most part, I feel like I'm more nifty than he was.”
After going through summer workouts and a few weeks of fall camp, what does the frosh corner think the ‘21 Bears can accomplish?
“I think the team is capable of a lot,” said Hearns. “I think our offense has really clicked this year, and I know our defense will do exactly what they did last year, if not more.”
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