9/19/2008 football Edit

2010 running back will be a big name

Barton Simmons

Recruiting Analyst

Following a season in which Buford (Ga.) High was one of the top teams in the nation, the 2008 season has yet to see a drop off in dominance at the powerhouse program. A big reason for that sustained success is the emergence of an elite 2010 prospect in Storm Johnson. Johnson has led his team to a dominating 3-0 start in a chase for back-to-back 2A state titles.

"The season has been good," Johnson said. "It's been tremendous, everything's been as good as I could've hoped for. In Texas (against Mansfield Timberview) I had three touchdowns, one of them was for 49 yards. It was a blowout so they took all the starters out in the second quarter. I had one touchdown. The last game I had two touchdowns and 158 yards rushing."

Johnson with good size (6-0, 210), speed (4.5, 40) and vision could be a feature back at any number of programs but at Buford he shares the load with senior Cody Getz. To his credit, Johnson doesn't mind the shared spotlight.

"We do a two-back system because me and Cody are both two great backs so we run the ball about 50/50," he said. "He's a senior so I'm ok waiting my turn. It's good because defenses will prepare for his quickness and when I come in it gives them both. I get the tough yardage. I'm always trying to get the yardage no one else can get. That's the kind of back I am."

Because of his size and athleticism, Johnson is likely to be a highly recruited prospect in the class of 2010. Though he has yet to receive any official offers, Johnson is receiving interest from schools such as Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Iowa, Clemson, Alabama and a number of other programs.

"I'm a fan of a lot of schools," he said. "I love LSU. They run the ball and they have a style that fits me. Georgia, they run the ball too and Ohio State, they run the ball. When I was younger, I had a favorite team but now it's all about fitting my style of play and fitting in with the school."

With the talent that he possesses, Johnson's style will likely fit in with all kinds of programs.