SoCal athlete has Big 12 leader

One of the most underrated prospects out west this year is Compton (Calif.) Dominguez two way standout Marvin Johnson. On a team loaded with Div I prospects, Johnson might be the best all around talent on the squad.

Johnson, 5-10, 185 pounds was a second team all-state underclass selection a year ago and starts at quarterback and safety for the Dons. Dominguez runs a Wing-T offense and in four games this year, Johnson has rushed 30 times for 283 yards and seven touchdowns and thrown for 401 yards and seven more scores. He also has picked off two passes and said he's being recruited at a number of positions right now.

"Colorado likes me at running back, everyone else wants me for corner or safety," Johnson said. "I prefer safety but I'll play wherever. Whatever gets me on the field the fastest, doesn't matter that much to me."

Johnson worked out with the defensive backs at the SoCal Nike camp and looked very good. He clocked a 4.71 in the 40, jumped 32 inches in the vertical and did 17 reps on the bench. We also liked him at USC's senior camp where he showed very good cover skills. At this point, we feel Johnson probably projects best a corner in college although if he continues to grow, he would make an excellent safety as well.

On the recruiting front, Johnson was expected to take his first official visit of the year this weekend to Colorado but he now has to re-schedule it.

"I had to take care of some things around the house this weekend so I couldn't make it," Johnson said. "I've talked to Coach Hagan and I'm probably going to take that visit sometime in December. Right now I have an offer from Mississippi and a verbal offer from Arizona. I've also gotten calls from Oregon, Fresno State, Nevada and Idaho.

"All of those schools have offered a visit but the only one I have set is Fresno State for (Jan. 6). Oregon is trying to get something set up for December too. Colorado said they're going to offer as soon as they get my transcripts and Oregon and Fresno State said they're close as well."

One school Johnson hasn't heard from yet but said is his dream school is Texas Tech.

"Yeah, I've liked Tech for a long time," Johnson said. "I'm from Texas and have a lot of family still there. I've just always loved Texas football and of the three big Texas schools, Tech, A&M and UT, I think I would have the best shot to play early at Tech so that's why I've liked them for awhile. My coach told me he called them for me and they were supposed to get in contact with me but I haven't heard from anyone yet."