Interview: 3-Star 2021 South Carolina WR JJ Jones is Too Tough to Stop

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

It takes a lot for an Air Raid offense to work, or at least work effectively at the prolific level intended. The 2019 Myrtle Beach Seahawks have it down. The team has raced out to a 9-0 record against 4A foes while the offense is lighting up the board at a clip of 46 every Friday night. One of the monster headaches for opposing defensive coordinators to deal with on the squad is three-star 2021 receiver James “JJ” Jones. The 6-3, 185-pound, target can do it all – run sharp routes, high-point it, make the circus catch and use his 4.5 speed to break a defense from anywhere on the field. Jones has turned in a 33-reception 533-yard 12-touchdown season in stats through seven games which has led to seven offers being dropped on the table.

What makes one of South Carolina’s junior receivers so tough to stop? RNG went to the source to learn more about why Mr. Jones is so good.

Interview

JJ, the Seahawks have taken opposing 4A teams to the woodshed this season with an offense scoring 46 per game. What makes that side of the ball so dangerous for you guys?

“Honestly, it is our offensive line. They are blocking great for us. They are big, they work out every day, and they are hungry to get better. That is great in an Air Raid offense to have that type of offensive line who sacrifice their body to block for us. We have so many weapons, it is hard to guard three 6-foot 3-inch D-I prospects all on the field at the same time.”

How are you being utilized within the scheme?

“The coaches moved me over to outside receiver because I have a great catch radius and because my play making skills are good for that spot.”

When you line up, what kind of coverage are you seeing from defenses?

“Most of the time I have a zone defense in front of me and I am usually double teamed. But with the other receivers on the team, and we have only played three full games together, they cannot double-team me because my guys can score touchdowns on them.”

Which routes are you running this season?

“A lot of fades, posts, and screen routes.”

From last year to this year, how have you seen your skills improve?

“Over the offseason I was constantly in the weight room and on the field getting my footwork down. I have been working hard on my play-making skills and improving my YAC (yards after the catch).”

Your speed shows. What is the fastest 40-yard dash time you put down over the offseason?

“The fastest was a 4.5 at a Duke football camp.”

This season, which game has been your best performance?

“Probably the Hartsville game.”

Why the Hartsville game?

“They are one of our biggest rivals. That game is always a tough game. I had 190 yards and three touchdowns against them.”

Which schools are showing interest?

“South Carolina, Duke, Notre Dame, Miami, and Florida.”

How many offers have you accumulated?

“Eight.”

Jones’ Offer Sheet: Coastal Carolina, Louisville, North Carolina, Penn State, Southern Miss, Vanderbilt, Wake Forest, and West Virginia

Has the chance presented itself to visit college programs?

“Yes. I have taken eight or nine visits. West Virginia was my first one. I went there for a Junior Day.”

Have you taken any game day visits this year?

“I have been to South Carolina, West Virginia, Coastal Carolina, Penn State, and North Carolina.”

If you will, tell me about the Penn State trip?

“It was a sight to see. That was one of the greatest atmospheres I have ever seen – the White Out Game. Seeing that and what could possibly be me out there was great. I met the players and coaches, all very friendly. The fans were crazy and they love Penn State football.”

An impactful visit. How about the UNC visit? How did that go?

“That surprised me. UNC is known as a basketball school, but the way that college town supported their football team, that impacted me. They impressed me.”

Coming up, are there any planned trips ahead?

“I may go to South Carolina this weekend and either Wake Forest or Duke next weekend.”

Last question. The team opens the playoffs against Lakewood (Sumter). What are you expecting from the Gators (4-6) defense on Friday?

“We are expecting a hungry team. They will be physical. We always have a target on our back, we are preparing for whatever they may bring.”

JJ, thanks for your time today. I had fun. Wishing you and the Seahawks success in the playoffs.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Jones family; JJ Jones at Penn State and UNC