Cali DB picking up steam

Culver City (Calif.) athlete Tyrone Justin is one of the state's best two-way players. Justin is having a very good season at both receiver as well as defensive back and could play on either side of the ball.

Justin, 5-10, 160 pounds was one of the top players we saw during the summer passing league circuit. He's a shut down corner and a talented receiver as well. The Centaurs finished the regular season 8-1-1 and moved on to the 2nd round of the playoffs with an easy 33-15 1st round win last Friday.

"That was a big win for us since we lost in the 1st round the last two years," Justin said. "Our offense has played well all year long but our defense stepped up and we're going to have to keep playing well because we have a tough game coming up against West Torrance who hasn't lost this year."

On the season, Justin has caught 32 balls for 481 yards and eight touchdowns, racked up 61 tackles and two picks and has averaged 42 yards on three punt returns including one for a score.

"Most schools like me for defensive back but I tell every coach I talk with that I could play on either side of the ball, wherever they have the biggest need," Justin said. "I really don't have a preference between the two, I just want to get on the field."

On the recruiting front, Justin had early offers from Nevada and Idaho State and picked up an offer from UNLV recently.

"I'm talking with UNLV about taking a visit there with two of my teammates on (Jan. 19) but it's not set in stone yet. I'm also talking with Fresno State and they said they want to see some senior film before offering.

"Boise State was at one of our practices and they said they're going to start recruiting me but they haven't called yet. Cal has also requested film. I think some of the schools are waiting for my SAT scores to come in. I took the test twice already and I'm planning to take it again December 2. I've improved my grades a lot and I've been working hard in the classroom and it's paying off."