Interview: 3-Star 2021 RB James Bohls is a Punisher with College Speed
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
Football is not for the weak or timid, but still, there is a little bit of feeling sorry for South Coast defenders who have to knock heads with Class of 2021 running back James Bohls play after play. Bohls is that mix of speed, power, and anger who can break off a 70-yard run just as well as plow through a linebacker for a drive saving first down. The three-star San Clemente High School talent mixed it up against California Division 1/2 defenses last season covering 677 yards on 120 carries and pulled down 10 passes for 90 yards. His speed was further showcased as a kick returner until teams stopped going his way after an 85-yard return for a touchdown. So far, seven college programs see Bohls as the guy who can help post wins on the board and conference championship in the trophy case.
In an RNG catch-up interview, Bohls recaps his growth on the field in 2019 with an update on his expanding recruiting options.
*Click the link for RNG’s previous video interview with James Bohls
Interview
James, your junior season had the feel of a coming attractions campaign. Even though you had a high-impact season, it seems that you are not even close to showing all that you can do on the field. Would you agree with that?
“Yes, I agree with that.”
In 2019, you were an impact player on offense and on special teams. Your speed was a difference maker no matter what you were doing. What is the best-timed run you’ve posted?
“My fastest 100 was an 11-flat and my fastest 40 was a 4.56.”
When did you post the 100 time?
“The 100 was this year, before everything was cancelled in a practice meet.”
What offensive scheme were the Tritons running last season?
“We did the Spread a lot.”
How did the offensive coordinator feed you the rock?
“Mostly on pitches to the outside. We did a lot of inside and outside zone plays and we did some screens too.”
In which ways did your overall game improve on offense?
“My game improved on offense with my explosion. My explosion through the hole, my jump cuts, and my vision all improved last season.”
When the ball is teed up in 2020, will you be playing any additional positions?
“On offense, I am staying at running back. On defense, they want to put me at free safety or cornerback.”
With your offseason workouts, what are you focusing on as an offensive play-maker?
“I am focusing on my pass blocking, yards after contact, and breaking tackles.”
And on defense?
“I’m focused on my hitting, and not trying to kill them each time I hit them. I am working on my backpedal and breaking.”
Are there any college camps you may possibly compete at this summer?
“I am looking at the USC camp.”
How many scholarship offers do you have now?
“Seven.”
Bohls’ Offer Sheet: Boise State, New Mexico, San Diego State, San Jose State, Utah State, Washington State, and Wyoming
Which schools are looking at you but have not offered just yet?
“Arizona, BYU, Yale, Wisconsin, Oregon, and Texas.”
Looking ahead, are there any visits you will take late spring or over the summer?
“Before the virus, I was planning on visiting Utah, Utah State, and Boise State.”
A new RNG question, I am calling it the virus buster question. Given the downtime over the last couple of weeks, what have you been doing to entertain yourself outside of school work and working out?
“Playing cards and board games with my mom.”
That sounds like a lot of fun. Which games are you playing?
“Scrabble and Crazy Eights.”
Awesome. James, it was great catching up with you today. Wish you success with your offseason workouts and winning a couple of rounds playing Crazy Eights.
“Thank you.”
Top-end speed provided by Recruiting Analytics
Photo credit: San Clemente HS/Bohls family; James Bohls