SoCal athlete has serious skills

Cornerback/athlete Bernard Griffin (5-10, 170, 4.58) from Compton, Calif., is a prospect on his versatility alone. He can play all of the defensive back positions and offense he could end up playing quarterback, running back and wide receiver.

"Bernard Griffin is an outstanding athlete who has excellent coverage skills," Compton coach Calvin Bryant said. "He can do it all. He can run, he can catch and he can throw. We just have to find places to get him the ball.

"Bernard will end up playing cornerback for us on the defensive side of the ball, but he has the versatility to play any position in the secondary, plus he possesses exceptional hands and feet," Bryant said. "He had a good season last year and topped off his junior campaign with key interceptions in both of our playoff games against Esperanza and Orange Lutheran.

"As talented an athlete as Bernard is, he projects as a corner on the collegiate level," Bryant said. "He has exceptional footwork and able to turn his hips really well and break to the football.

"I think that Bernard will be able to really showcase his talents as a senior," Bryant said. "We had a pretty good athlete who signed with Colorado who had the majority of offensive touches last year.

"Bernard makes an impact on our defense," Bryant said. "He's able to lock down half the field for us. Because of what Bernard can do for us the opposition isn't able to do the things they are usually capable of.

Griffin earned second-team all-league as a corner after racking up 63 tackles, four interceptions, one sack and one pass deflection.

Ole Miss, Oregon State, Arizona State, Arizona, and Boise State are schools showing Griffin early recruiting attention.