Interview: 2022 Georgia RB Keith Adams Jr. Pushing to Next Level after 1,100-Yard Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
All college football offensive coordinators seek a back like Keith Adams Jr. Adams can lower the boom on a linebacker for the tough yards and outrun the secondary for that breakaway score needed to rally his team. During his sophomore season, Adams had a breakout campaign to remember crunching up 7A Georgia defenses on the way to 1,128 yards with 10 scores off 231 carries and secured 13 passes for 114 yards with another touchdown posted on the big board. The rising Cherokee High School standout earned first team All-District and All-Region honors last season along with an offer from Middle Tennessee State.
As college programs check in on the Canton talent, they will see the bloodline for collegiate greatness. Keith Adams Sr. was unkind to ACC foes suiting up for Clemson (1998-2000) at linebacker twice earning All-Conference (1999-00), ACC Defensive Player of the Year accolades (1999), and All-American honors (2000).
In an RNG first-look, Adams steps inside the RNG Lab for a detailed look at his play on the field with an update on his process along the recruiting trail.
Interview
Keith, you are that mix of a speed and power back capable of breaking a long run as well as lowering the pads for the tough yards. How do you describe or view your style of play as a running back?
“Exactly like that. Speed and power are the top part of my game, and I am elusive and I can block. I can make moves and I am a good third down back.”
You carried a crazy load last season with 231 totes. How did you take care of your body during the 2019 season so you could stay on the field and be productive?
“The Thursday before game I went to get massages, I would stretch every day, and go to physical therapy to keep my body maintained.”
What were some of the plays called designed to get the ball into your hands?
“We did a lot of inside running plays, not that many sweeps, and we were pulling the guards with a fullback. We had some counters too and some screens.”
How did your game develop throughout the 2019 campaign?
“From the beginning of the season it got better each game. My chemistry with my teammates got better and my work ethic got stronger – I was putting more work in. Last season I feel I got better with each play. My teammates had my back, my offensive line trusted me and I trusted them. We got better as a team.”
When the new season kicks off will you be doing anything differently on the field?
“This season will be the same for me at RB, just doing my thing. My coaches will work to get me more in space to make plays.”
Since the season ended what have you been working on with your game?
“Since the season ended I have been lifting, working on my footwork, and keeping my knees high. I have a personal trainer, former NFL running back Robert Edwards, who has been working with me.”
Very cool. Your speed, as mentioned, is there. What is the best 40-yard dash time you’ve posted?
“A 4.59 at a Georgia camp.”
No arguing that. With recruiting, which schools are showing you interest?
“South Carolina, Syracuse, Air Force, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Florida, and Clemson.”
Nice. Which school has offered you?
“Middle Tennessee State.”
Going back to last season, have you taken any unofficial visits?
“Yes. I went to Tennessee and Clemson for games”
How did the Tennessee visit turn out?
“It was really nice. It was fun. I like the campus and I like the energy there and the coaches. They were nice and inspirational.”
And the Clemson visit, how did that go?
“It was great. It was really cool. They know my dad; the whole staff knows him. I felt at home there, I felt comfortable.”
Are there any planned visits on your schedule coming up?
“Yes, sir. Kansas State this fall.”
When the 2020 season kicks off you enter the schedule with two years of varsity experience behind you. What do you want to accomplish on the field during your junior season?
“My goal is to get 2,000 yards and 20 TDs. I am trying to break some records this year, make it to state playoffs and win the championship.”
If you could tell all college football coaches one thing about you, what would you tell them?
“That my work ethic is the best. It is top-notch; I do not quit for anything. I think I can do anything on the field. I have the most confidence out of anyone I know.”
Keith, it was great covering ground with you today. Thank you for your time and good luck with your workouts this summer until we talk again.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Adams family; Keith Adams at a camp