West Virginia Now Has a Solid One-Two Punch at RB in 2021 Class
The West Virginia coaching staff has done a tremendous job thus far with recruiting the 2021 class, specifically on the offensive side of the ball.
Last night, the Mountaineers picked up the commitment of running back Justin Johnson Jr. of Edwardsville, Illinois who also had offers from Cal, Michigan State, Minnesota, Louisville, Washington State, and several other offers. Johnson's commitment makes him the 2nd running back in West Virginia's 2021 recruiting class, joining Jaylen Anderson of Perry, Ohio.
With Johnson's commitment, the Mountaineers are more than likely finished recruiting the running back position this cycle, so let's take a look at what the duo brings to the table.
Jaylen Anderson <---- CLICK HERE to view SI All-American Profile
Anderson (5'11" 205 lbs) has the look of an every down back. He stays low to the ground and can make guys miss once he hits the second level of the defense. He doesn't hesitate when hitting gaps and provides a great burst of speed out of the backfield. What makes Anderson even more intriguing is that he is also a big threat in the passing game, not only out of the backfield, but also has the ability to line up on the outside from time to time. He's a downhill, physical runner that likes to take it in between the tackles, which is something the Mountaineers are going to need once Leddie Brown graduates.
Justin Johnson Jr. <---- CLICK HERE to view SI All-American Profile
If you're not careful, Johnson will jump-cut you to death. He runs with really good balance and can change direction really well. Johnson is a little lighter than Anderson (5'11", 190 lbs) but runs very similarly. He doesn't have top-end speed, but is quick in hitting the hole and getting to the second level of the defense in a hurry. At his high school, they get him heavily involved in the passing game via swing route into the flat or screens and will be something I would expect West Virginia to do with him once he reaches campus. I don't know that Johnson has one trait in particular that really pops out, but one thing you'll notice when watching the tape is that he is a tough tackle. He's not very easy to bring down and often times slips out of tackles.
With these two guys now in Neal Brown's cupboard, expect West Virginia to place a major emphasis on not only running the football, but being a downhill, physical team that likes to wear down opponents. Anderson and Johnson both have very bright futures in Morgantown.
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