Interview: 2022 Dual-Threat Khalib Johnson Ready to Stake Claim Against 6A Alabama Squads
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The planned onslaught against 6A Alabama defenses for Khalib Johnson this season was seen a mile away. During the 2019 campaign, Johnson worked his craft against junior varsity competition with Clay-Chalkville High School while getting snaps in varsity games. The season of learning and developing has already paid off with the Cougars out to a 3-0 start ranked No. 8 in-state by MaxPreps. The Cougars lit up Shades Valley for 37 and Jasper for 40 with their dual-threat leading the way. His ascension as a headline player is no surprise to those in the area, and those talents are attracting admirers along the recruiting trail. Columbia has already dropped an offer with ACC, Big Ten, and SEC squads, among others, showing interest.
In an RNG first-look, Johnson stops by the Lab for a detailed conversation updating us on the time put in this offseason that is being showcased on the gridiron during the 2020 schedule.
Interview
Khalib, the Cougars have started out hot with a 3-0 record going for 37 points and 40 along the way. What is working for you guys early in the season allowing for the big production?
This offseason we work hard. We worked hard this summer and worked on our plays and chemistry, that has played a big part. We have to keep going and keep working.
What style of offense are you guys running?
Spread.
How does the offense fit your skillset?
It fits me well because if nothing is there I can run, scramble, or go through my reads. It is a fun offense for me, it fits me the best.
What are the routes your receivers are running in the scheme?
We run a little bit of everything, posts, digs, slants, comebacks, 15-yard comebacks – really everything. We have speedy and great receivers I can throw to, that helps a lot.
After all the hard work put into your game over the offseason, where are you seeing the differences in your talents from the end of last year to now?
From last year to this year, I have quicker footwork, I know how to put more touch on the ball, I know when to drill it and when to throw it with touch. My football IQ is better and I am a better leader this season.
Is there an aspect to your game that might get overlooked?
I am a great escape artist, I can get out of the pocket, and I will throw the ball away. I don’t take sacks.
You guys get Gardendale (2-1) next, what kind of game are you expecting from the Rockets?
They are a great team. I feel like if we work hard in practice, we will be fine. We have to have laser focus this week; we will be ready.
Are there any other big upcoming games on the schedule?
Not really. I take it one game at a time. I am focused on our next opponent. Our rival is Pinson Valley.
What goals have you set for the 2020 season?
For my personal stats, I want to have 3,000 passing yards. The team goal, I want to win a state championship; nothing less.
Where are you so far with stats this season?
In our first game, I hadn’t played a full game yet because we’ve been blowing everyone out, in my first game I had 160 yards on 8 for 13 passing with four touchdowns. I had three passing and one running. Our second game was cancelled, but in our third, in one half, I was 5 for 6 with one touchdown.
Let’s get a quick update in with your recruiting. Which schools are showing interest but have not offered?
Virginia Tech, they are showing a lot of interest, Mississippi State, Florida, Maryland, Western Kentucky, Middle Tennessee, Liberty, and Tulane.
Which program has offered?
Columbia.
Nice. Once campuses open back up, which programs would you like to visit?
I’d like to visit Virginia Tech, Florida, and Maryland.
Khalib, it was a lot of fun going over your game on and off the field. Wishing you and the Cougars success until we talk again.
Yes, sir. Thank you.
Photo credit: Johnson family; Khalib Johnson