Transfer Running Back Kobe Johnson Adjusts to Fast-Paced Offense at Colorado State
Fort Collins – Kobe Johnson, a graduate transfer running back, finds himself far away from his hometown of Lawrenceville, Ga., at Colorado State University. The distance, however, is not the biggest adjustment for Johnson. It is the fast-paced offense that he has joined, which is quite different from what he is used to.
Coming from an offense that preferred to huddle and take its time running plays, Johnson expresses that the faster tempo at Colorado State catches defenses off guard. During the team’s first scrimmage of fall camp, Johnson surprised the Rams’ defense with his impressive performance. Coach Jay Norvell aimed to keep things basic and evaluate the potential of his new group of running backs. This suited Johnson perfectly, as he was able to break off several big runs, display his speed, and exhibit his strength with tough runs up the middle.
Norvell is optimistic about Johnson’s abilities and believes he will be a valuable addition to the team. Johnson stands at 5-foot-9 and possesses natural running skills and experience that will benefit the Rams’ offense.
Johnson is not alone at Colorado State. He is one of three players who transferred from North Dakota State University (NDSU) this offseason, joining cornerback Dom Jones and defensive lineman Tony Pierce Jr. The coaching staff also includes former NDSU player Freddie Banks as the defensive coordinator and Buddha Williams, who previously coached in Fargo for five years. This familiarity with former teammates and coaches makes Colorado State a comfortable fit for Johnson.
His presence brings a sense of relief not just to the running back room, but to the entire offense. Last season’s leading rusher, Avery Morrow, has his status uncertain due to legal issues stemming from an assault charge. With junior college transfer KJ Edwards and promising freshman Damian Henderson, the addition of Johnson adds the extra boost the offense needs.
Johnson’s contributions extend beyond statistics and experience. He has won two national championships during his college career, making him a valuable asset to the team. Now in the competitive Mountain West conference, Johnson is determined to showcase his skills on a different stage and prove himself once again.
With aspirations of success in the Mountain West conference, Johnson believes he has accomplished all he needed to at the FCS level and is excited about the opportunity that awaits him at Colorado State. He looks forward to displaying his skill set and making the most of his final year of collegiate football.
As he adjusts to the fast-paced offense and settles into his new surroundings, Johnson’s dedication and talent offer a promising outlook for Colorado State’s football program. The Rams are eager to see what the transfer running back brings to the team and how he helps elevate their performance on the field.
In capturing the attention of Coach Norvell and impressing the Rams’ defense during the first scrimmage, Johnson has already made a statement. As the season unfolds, he aims to continue making an impact and leaving his mark on Colorado State’s football program.
