Interview: 2021 Texas RB Christian Johnson Carrying the Offensive Load for Wylie East
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Being the offensive playmaker for any football team at any level is never easy, especially going against Texas 5A programs. But that is what Christian Johnson is doing again for Wylie East (1-4). The 5-8, 180-pound, tailback rushed for 721 yards off 164 totes with six scores as a junior showcasing what he can do. Being the featured offensive player yet again for the Raiders, Johnson is having another standout year with 681 yards on the ground and eight touchdowns in five games played.
In an RNG update interview, Johnson gives us the inside scoop on his season and his growing recruiting options.
*Click link for June 2020 RNG interview with Christian Johnson
Interview
Christian, we spoke during the summer then going over your offseason workouts and conditioning. Once again you are the lead back for the Raiders carrying the rock 97 times of the team’s 169 attempts. How has all that work in the spring and summer paid off this fall?
It has helped me a lot with my conditioning utilizing my speed to make plays for all four quarters.
What style of offense are you guys executing this season?
We are running a Spread, but more run heavy.
How are defenses lining up against you and the team?
We are mainly seeing a stacked box. That’s what we’ll have that this week. They will bring the safeties down against us.
Being the featured back and offensive player for the Raiders, what have been some challenges you’ve faced on the field this season?
I’d say knowing that teams prepare for me and the run game. That has been challenging.
How have those challenges helped you become a better player?
Those challenges have helped me see the field better and helps me understand film more so I know my options on each play.
Which game this season has been your personal best?
Last week McKinney North.
Why did you pick that one?
It was a great game. My team needed me, and I was able to help out. I had four touchdowns and went over 200 total yards. I had 186 rushing in that one.
Nice. Where are you showing the biggest gains in your abilities as a tailback?
I’d say my elusiveness, breaking runs, and my power too. I am making people miss this season and I am a threat in the passing game. My routes and my patience allowing holes to open have also improved.
The team has three left on the board starting with Tyler (1-4) on Friday. What kind of game are you expecting from the Lions’ defense?
A stacked box. They will prepare for the run.
Let’s close on recruiting. Which schools are showing interest?
Texas A&M Kingsville, Puget Sound, Texas Basin, and West Virginia State.
How many offers are you holding?
Four: St. Norbert, Whittier College, Mount Marty, and Pacific University
If visits are allowed early in 2021, which schools would you like to go see?
Abilene Christian and Tarleton State (TX).
Christian, it is always great catching up with you. I appreciate your time and wish you and the team success closing out the season strong.
Thank you.
Photo credit: Johnson family; Christian Johnson at Princeton