Arkansas Football: Interview with Bentonville All-State RB Joshua Ficklin
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
After being named First Team All-State as a sophomore in 2020, Josh Ficklin is gearing up for another monstrous season as the junior running back has 785 yards and 10 touchdowns on 103 carries through the first four games of 2021.
The 5’10”, 195-pound, playmaker has tremendous athleticism and speed to burst through the tackles and outrun defenders while also possessing good field vision and acceleration.
The 2023 recruit already has an offer from Memphis and is also drawing interest from numerous big-time programs including Arkansas, Oklahoma State, and Mississippi State.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Bentonville’s star running back to talk about his successful junior season and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Joshua, how is your junior season going so far?
My junior season is going pretty well. I’m leading the state in rushing yards, and my team is 3-1 with a lot of up-side.
What has been your favorite moment thus far in the 2021 season?
My favorite moment in the season was probably my screen pass against Conway, because I got to display my speed.
What are your strengths on the football field?
I’m a downhill runner and a power runner between the tackles. I can accelerate through the hole and I have speed and patience.
What kind of offensive scheme does your team run?
Pro-style and RPO (run-pass option).
How do your skills fit into this scheme?
Teams have to respect the run which opens up the play-action pass game.
What do you like most about playing running back?
Scoring touchdowns, breaking tackles, and just running over people.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
4.47 laser.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Dalvin Cook.
How would you describe your style of play?
Aggressive, hard-nose, and blue-collar. I’m always bringing my lunch pail to work and willing to do whatever it takes for my team to win.
Did you attend any camps this summer?
Arkansas, Memphis, Florida State, Louisville, and University of Oklahoma.
Which was your favorite camp and why?
The Memphis camp was my favorite because of all the love they showed me and they actually wanted to make us better football players and men.
Are you receiving interest from any schools?
I’m receiving interest from Memphis, Arkansas, Oklahoma State University, Toledo, Texas Tech, South Dakota State, and Mississippi State.
Do you have any college offers?
University of Memphis.
What game left on the schedule are you most looking forward to playing?
Fayetteville is going to be a good game; they are the most evenly matched team in the conference.
What are your goals for the rest of your junior season?
I’m shooting for a 2,000-yard rushing season.
Thank you for your time and good luck the rest of the season.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Twitter.com; Bentonville RB Joshua Ficklin