Arizona DB in high gear
It looks like Tempe (Ariz.) Marcos de Niza cornerback Marcus Johnson is picking up where he left off.
A season ago in his first year as a varsity starter, Johnson made three interceptions and that performance started earning the attention of many major college scouts. Now, in just three games this season, he already has two interceptions, one forced fumble and 22 tackles.
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His phone has been ringing off the hook. Stanford, UCLA, Arizona State, Cal, Colorado, Colorado State, Ohio State and Notre Dame have all placed calls to the Johnson household since the Sept. 1 contact period began.
“I was talking today with Colorado State about setting up a visit,” Johnson said. “I like all of the schools a lot. I’m excited to be in the position that I am.”
Still, Johnson has yet to receive that first official scholarship offer, something that is sure to be on the way for the 6-foot, 180-pound cornerback with 4.5-second 40-yard dash speed.
Arizona State and Colorado State may have somewhat of an advantage at this point, according to Johnson. However, he says that he’s really just looking at any schools in particular that play ball in what he termed “the big three” conferences - Pac-10, Big 10 and Big 12.
Because of his size, Johnson says some schools are considering him as a safety, while others see him staying at cornerback on the college level.
“Wherever they want me, it’s their decision,” he said. “I just want to get on the field and play.”