Interview: 2018 Ohio RB Tavion Thomas has 4-Star Skill Set Heading into Senior Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @HogManInLA
Some people just have that “it” factor and know how to make an entrance onto college football’s recruiting scene. When Tavion Thomas was prepping for his junior season, even in his wildest dreams, how 2016 played out would have never played out as favorably as it did.
When Thomas was running sprints, lifting weights, and doing agility drills during the summer, another season starting at defensive tackle was the focus. A backup role at running back was expected again, just like during his sophomore campaign. As fate would have it, Dunbar High School’s starting tailback was injured during the first game of the season pushing Thomas into a role not even he knew just how capable he was to fill.
The Wolverines 2015 season ended with a 5-6 record but something clicked for the squad in 2016 finishing 7-3 with two of those losses coming by forfeit after winning on the field. Their new 6-2, 225 pound, back attacked the season knowing he had something to lose rushing for 1,606 yards off 137 carries with 17 touchdowns. The 11.7 yard per carry average was impressive but Thomas showed another side to his game pulling in seven passes for 93 yards with another trip into the end zone.
College coaches taking the time to scout Thomas quickly saw a big back with good speed, great field vision, patience allowing plays to develop, and, perhaps most important, runs hard on every snap. Word spread through the Ohio Valley quickly with Ball State, Toledo, and Central Michigan dropping offers as soon as possible. A list of Power Five Conference schools ready to learn more about Thomas includes Michigan State, Pitt, Purdue, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Thomas going over his breakout season with a look ahead and an overview on his recruitment thus far.
Interview
Tavion, which position did you play during your sophomore season?
“I started at defensive end but I did not play much at running back, I was a backup. This year was really my first to play running back.”
You had a phenomenal junior season rushing for over 1,600 yards, did you know going into the year that you would be the focal point of the ground game?
“No, sir. I did not know I was going to start. I thought I would start my senior year. Our starter got hurt in Game 1. Since the second game our coach started me. It just came out of nowhere. It was crazy but it was good.”
How did your game improve as the season went along?
“It improved a lot. I got more elusive and I got stronger. My o-line helped me a lot. If things were going bad they would pick me up. Everything worked out. I was nervous at first but my teammates had my back. I did not play football until my sophomore year. The last time I played before then was in fourth grade. The team, we bonded together and it was a great year.”
Which team was the toughest you went up against this year?
“Princeton (lost 41-12).”
How did that game help improve you as a player?
“The competition helped me, it made me work harder.”
Will your role expand on defense during your senior year playing on both sides of the ball?
“I will do whatever I can do to help the team out. I may play defensive end or outside linebacker if they need me to.”
What is the focus of your off-season workouts?
“A lot of running to stay in shape and improving my footwork.”
Do you remember your off-season weight room max totals?
“My squat was 545 and my clean was 200.”
Did you run a 40-yard dash over the summer?
“My best 40 was a 4.63.”
You have three offers, which teams are showing recruiting interest in you but have not offered you yet?
“Wisconsin, West Virginia, Pitt, Purdue, and Michigan State.”
Did you take any game day visits this season?
“Yes, sir. I went to Ohio State, Michigan State, Florida State, Louisville, Pitt, and Syracuse.”
Did you learn anything that opened your eyes or got your attention during your visits?
“Michigan State showed me everything more than the other schools. Their facilities were great.”
Do you have any planned visits for this winter or spring?
“I plan on going to Wisconsin’s Junior Day, to Toledo, Cincinnati, and Michigan State.”
What is your cumulative GPA?
“2.5.”
Are you playing any winter or spring sports?
“I’m playing baseball and running track.”
Which events in track?
“The open 100 and 200, the 4×1, and 4×2.”
Which event do you like best?
“The 4×1.”
Tavion, thanks for your time today and good luck with your off-season workouts.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: scoutingohio.com; No. 7 Tavion Thomas
Photo credit: Thomas family; Tavion Thomas at Michigan State