Interview: 3-Star 2022 Arkansas RB Joe Himon is a Dynamic Recruiting Prospect
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
When it comes to sports, the tape does not lie. When watching Class of 2022 running back Joe Himon, you are seeing the truth. Himon dazzled in his breakout sophomore season with Arkansas powerhouse Pulaski Academy covering 2,038 all-purpose yards, that’s 1,300 yards on the ground off 128 carries with 16 trips into the end zone, 47 receptions for 738 yards with five touchdowns, and 395 kick return yards with 25 total scores posted on the big board. The 5-10, 175-pound, scat-back was recognized for his efforts in 2019 earning All-Conference, All-State, and Arkansas Democrat-Gazette Underclassman of the Year. Seeing is believing and college programs that have seen Himon are liking it a lot. SMU has offered with programs in the region starting to find him.
In an RNG exclusive interview, I sat down with Himon covering all the things he does on the field and how he is preparing for another big season this fall.
Interview
Joe, your sophomore season was truly explosive using your speed and field vision to burn 5A Arkansas competition. Was there a point during the season when everything started clicking for you and you got into that groove on the field?
“After the first three games, it started to click. I started to fit in more and started doing what I was doing in junior high.”
Those junior high kids had no chance (he laughs). From watching your game footage, the goal is to get you in space to utilize your speed. In which ways were the coaches feeding you the rock so you could tear it up?
“We had different plays, screens and pitch it to me on the outside.”
How did your overall skillset improve last year?
“I improved by hitting my cuts harder and reading the hole better.”
Is there an area of your game that might get overlooked?
“People might think of me as an offensive player only, but I can play offense and defense.”
With that, what positions will you play in 2020?
“I may play both sides, it depends on my coach. I will do anything to help the team win. On offense, I think I will be in the slot more and I may line up at quarterback to throw some short passes.”
What have you been working on this offseason to prepare for those roles?
“This offseason I have been working on sharpening my cuts, getting faster, stronger, and bigger and I’m working on reading defenses.”
During this time, what has been your daily workout routine?
“I’ve been going to any field near me doing footwork three times a week and I am also lifting weights.”
We started off talking about your speed, and I want to bring it up again. What is the best 40-yard dash time you’ve posted?
“My best 40 was a 4.42 at school.”
Nice. If the college camp season happens, which camps might you attend?
“I’d like to go to Ohio State, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Oklahoma State, and SMU.”
Are you playing any other varsity sports for Pulaski Academy?
“Basketball.”
In the classroom, what is your cumulative GPA?
“3.6.”
What is your favorite subject in school?
“I like science, chemistry and biology.”
Last question, what goals have you set for yourself for the 2020 season?
“In the upcoming season I want over 2,000 yards all purpose, 30 touchdowns, and for us to win state.”
Joe, thanks for your time today and good luck with your workouts this spring and summer.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Pulaski Academy/Himon family; Joe Himon (2019)