Electric 2020 3-Star ATH Jakai Torres Talks UNLV and Upcoming San Jose State Visits

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Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

There are very few players across the nation in the 2020 class who impacted their respective team as Jakai Torres did for St. Bernard High School over the past two seasons. As a junior, he rushed for 1,770 yards averaging 148 yards per game with 24 touchdowns scored and covered 689 yards in the passing game compiling over 2,600 all-purpose yards with 32 total scores, and took down 57 ball carriers with seven tackles for a loss, four sacks, and picked off two. Adding to the resume, four kick returns for 171 yards in 12 games. The 2019 season was much the same, over 1,100 rushing yards with 11 touchdowns and 29 receptions for 441 yards with four more trips into the end zone. On special teams, 285 yards covered off 11 returns and two punts going back the other way for 57 more yards. The list of responsibilities stayed the same with time put in on defense, putting together 45 stops, 10 tackles for a loss and picked up four fumbles while popping loose four.

Given all the Torres has done to prove he is a next level athlete capable of doing just about anything required as a skill player, college programs have not found the 5-11, 105-pound, talent yet, but that is changing. In an update interview, Torres sat down to update me on his recruiting process after a visit to UNLV with a trip on Saturday to San Jose State.

*Click link for Nov. 12, 2019, RNG interview with Jakai Torres

Interview

How did the unofficial visit to UNLV go?

“I liked the visit a lot; I like driving out there. I was able to walk around the athletic facility and football facility. Seeing what they are building, that excited me. The things they have instore is big. The way their football stadium will look, it will be great. It was great seeing what they have looked so hard at over the last year.”

What all did you do during the visit?

“The visit started on Friday. We went to their walk-throughs and then on Saturday we went to the game.”

What impressed you about seeing the team in-person?

“They have a really good team, a very talented team. Unfortunately, their season did not go the way they wanted record wise, but with the skill that they have on offense and defense, I think they will progress to being even more successful. They have a lot of talent coming back, that is what excites me most. I know they will grow over the next couple of years and keep getting better.”

After seeing their team live, how do you see yourself fitting into their scheme on offense?

“As a running back, being at the game it was very exciting being around the crowd. The game was amazing – it was crazy. San Jose and UNLV competed. I love how they utilize their running back. They did not just have him running the ball, but also running routes. The running back was a key player in their offense blocking, running, and catching passes. It fits me well. It would allow me to be more agile in their offense and do a lot that fits me well.”

What did the coaches talk about with you?

“During practice, we did not get to talk much. The coaches said “good to see you” – quick conversations. I talked to my area recruiter during our tour. I talked to Coach (Tim) Skipper (DC) for a while. You can tell he is a very good coach. He can relate to kids; it is good to have coaches like that. He helped us feel comfortable being there and around the program.”

You have the offers from Nevada and San Jose State, let’s get an update in on recruiting interest. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?

“Vanderbilt is a new school showing interest. Colorado State, UCLA, USC, Wyoming, Washington State, and South Dakota, they are another new school that is showing interest.”

Do you have any other upcoming visits planned?

“Yes. I will be at San Jose State this weekend for their last home game.”

What has you excited about visiting the Spartans this weekend?

“I am excited about the trip – it is their last game of the season. Being invited to be around the team and the environment, it all helps me with the recruiting process. It will be a good game against Fresno State.”

Jakai, always great catching up with you. Thanks for your time and good luck on your trip to San Jose State this weekend.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Raymond Joyce Photography; Jakai Torres

Photo credit: Torres family; Jakai Torres at UNLV