Interview: 3-Star 2020 St. Bernard RB/ATH Jakai Torres had a Breakout Season at Tailback
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Photo credits: Raymond Joyce Photography
Twitter: @RJPSports
A good question regarding Class of 2020 gridiron talent Jakai Torres (5-10, 185) at the skill positions is, what can’t he do? The rising three-star recruit took California defenses by storm rushing for 1,770 yards off 171 totes averaging 10.4 yards per carry and 148 yards per game. He flexed his all-purpose abilities covering 689 yards in the aerial attack and took back four kicks for 171 yards making 32 total trips into the end zone. Additionally, he put an end to 57 plays, had seven tackles for a loss, four sacks, and two interceptions helping carry St. Bernard to a 9-3 2018 season. After earning All-League MVP honors and second team All-Area accolades, two offers have been dropped by San Jose State and Nevada with regional interest coming in a hurry.
After Torres’ performance at the LA Nike Opening Regional and the Pylon 7v7 Tournament in Las Vegas over the weekend, I sat down with Torres to learn more about his game.
Interview
Jakai, you had a big season out of the backfield rushing for over 1,700 yards. What was working for you on the field allowing you to be so successful?
“I had chemistry with my team. My offensive line was doing their job making me looking good. I would not have had the season I had if not for them. There was also a lot of trust between me and my quarterback.”
How did your game improve out of the backfield during your junior season?
“During my sophomore year I had trouble catching the ball and being elusive. I was a more of a power back. During my junior year, I was better at catching the ball out of the backfield and getting up field after juking people. I was an all-purpose back last season. I got better as a power and speed back.”
Which game was your best in 2018?
“My best game was the California Military Institute game (playoffs).”
Why do you consider that game to be your best?
“I had six touchdowns, five in the first half.”
That counts. What do you feel are your overall strengths on the field as a running back?
“I am able to get outside quickly. I have a deadly stiff-arm, I think I have one of the best in California.”
What are you working on this offseason?
“I am working on reading the holes faster. In some games last season, I would get caught up on seeing multiple holes and picking a hole. My coach and I are working on being able to read the holes and take off. I am also working on my speed and strength.”
Are you playing 7v7 ball with a travel team this spring?
“Yes. I am playing with ProWay and Cohesive. At the Pylon Tournament this weekend I played with Cohesive.”
How is playing 7v7 helping you improve your game?
“It helps me at getting better at catching the ball and rushing downfield. It helps me with my routes. I will be in the slot some, and all over the field, next season. It helps me read the linebackers even better and helps me make moves against defenders to gain more yards.”
How did the Pylon Tournament go for you personally?
“This is my first year doing it. I am still learning the rules, but it is fun to go out with my teammates and compete. We competed against some top teams. Being able to travel is always fun. It was fun being in Vegas and seeing different places.”
I know you were at the Nike Opening Regional in LA competing. How did that camp go for you?
“I think it went really well. I feel like I got a lot of work in at the camp. I got better, and I am always improving. My 40 last year was not great, but it was better this year. I went against a lot of very good talent. I beat a lot of very good players out there.”
What 40-yard dash time did you post at the camp?
“My 40 was a 4.6.”
Nice. Are you going to any other national camps this spring?
“I was invited to the Hall of Fame camp and the Under Armour All-American Camp. I might go to Polynesian Combine as well.”
With recruiting, you have offers from San Jose State and Nevada. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“I am receiving interest from UCLA, Oregon, Oregon State, Utah, Stanford, Washington State, Notre Dame, and Wyoming.”
Is there a chance you might take an unofficial visit or two this spring?
“Yes. I will start taking unofficial visits to different schools upcoming. I plan on visiting the schools that have offered. I will probably also visit UCLA.”
What are college coaches telling you they like about your game?
“They tell me that they like my size and my power. They like the way that I move and they like how I can make big plays.”
Are you competing in other varsity sports for St. Bernard?
“Yes. I run track.”
With events?
“The 100, 200, shot, discuss, and 4×1.”
Busy man. Jakai, thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming camps and 7v7 tournaments.
“Thank you.”