Stephenson trounced Mays 24-0 to start the season, and junior running back Jayden Johnson had himself a game. The explosive 5’10” 190 lbs. back had 258 yards on just 20 carries and scored all three of his team’s touchdowns.
Throughout the game, Johnson demonstrated his excellent power, balance, and top-end speed, breaking off big runs. One of his three touchdowns encapsulated all three skills at once.
Johnson took a handoff at the 35-yard line where he immediately accelerated into his top gear, blowing by the linebackers and bouncing to the outside where two defensive backs waited. Johnson blew by an arm tackle, then bulldozed and tossed the last defender remaining between him and the end zone. The junior hit the jets and ran the final 50 yards, diving forward and over another defender over the pylon and into the end zone.
The electric touchdown was named one of the top 10 plays from Week 1 and was later voted the third-best play. So far, the season has been great for Johnson, and he has big expectations for what he can accomplish.
“The season has been going really well. I feel like I’ve stepped into more of a leadership role this year,” Johnson said.
He continued to talk about goals for the season, “My main goals are to touch 2000 yards, over 20 touchdowns, and keep improving as a complete back by contributing in both the run and passing game. Also, take my team to the big goal state.”
Johnson was among the best rushers in 3A last year going for 1369 yards and 10 touchdowns. He’s a consistent football player exceeding 100 yards in 7 of the 13 games he played last year.
If the start of his junior season is any indication for the rest of the fall, then his goal of 2000 yards could be in reach. No doubt, Johnson has made nice improvements to his game.
“The biggest improvement I’ve made is in my strength and speed,” he said.
Johnson’s running style is no-nonsense. He digs his cleats into the turf and gets upfield, utilizing his good top-end acceleration. He makes deliberate, powerful cuts at the line of scrimmage. Good recognition with his blocking, showing good patience, but also hitting the hole hard when the opportunity presents.
“I think what separates me is my vision and ability to make quick cuts. I run with power but also have the agility to make defenders miss. On top of that, I take pride in blocking and catching passes out of the backfield, which makes me an every-down back,” he said.
As of now, the junior has been in contact with Texas, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State. Going into Week 2, he is among the state leaders in rushing, and to be honest, that trend should continue for the remainder of the season. Don’t be surprised to see Johnson All-State by the end of the season, and FBS suitors ever-growing.
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