Getting to know Dedrick Anderson and Derrick Johnson II
JCSU SPRING FOOTBALL Q & A SESSION 3 – GETTING TO KNOW DEDRICK ANDERSON & DEUCE JOHNSON
Golden Bull senior playmakers on both sides of the ball
Written contributions and research by: Jovaun Funnye
Charlotte, NC – So often, student-athletes are only examined by their physical prowess and statistics within their sport. Johnson C. Smith University Sports Information took some time to get to know running back
Dedrick Anderson and defensive end Derrick (Deuce) Johnson II from the Golden Bulls' football team. Both are entering their senior season and have been extremely productive on the gridiron.
The spotlight will be slightly brighter this year for Golden Bulls football. The team finished 6-5 overall and 4-3 in the CIAA; their first winning team record since 2006. The season was capped with a 35-33 victory over Miles College (SIAC Champions) in Pioneer Bowl. Anderson and Johnson were two big contributors to the success at JCSU.
Anderson is a rising senior running back that led the team in rushing with 558 yards. He played in all 11 games, averaging 6.2 yards per carry with five touchdowns on the ground. Anderson also caught 26 passes for 190 yards and two TDs receiving.
Johnson is a rising senior defensive end that also played in all 11 games. He earned his first All-CIAA team selection. Johnson concluded the season third on the team in tackles with 58. He led JCSU in sacks with 11.5 for a loss of 66 yards, including two sacks in the Pioneer Bowl. Johnson ranked fourth in the CIAA and 14th in NCAA Division II for sacks.
Aside from their production on the field, we took a look at who they are off the field.
For those who don't know, where are you guys from?
Anderson: “I'm from Winston-Salem, NC; I graduated from West Forsyth High.”
Johnson: “Right here, I'm from Charlotte; I played ball and graduated from Hopewell High.”
What are you all majoring in and what are some goals you have upon graduation from JCSU?
Anderson: “I'm majoring in Biology. I'm focused on maintaining a high GPA and getting accepted into a graduate school with a strong physical therapy program.”
Johnson: “I'm majoring in Physical Education. Playing at the next level is an aspiration of mine, but I'd also like to go into the physical therapy field.”
Who would you say is your favorite NFL Player and why?
Anderson: “Marshall Faulk. He was a versatile running back with the ability to run the ball well and be a threat as a receiver.”
Johnson: “Patrick Patterson, the defensive back for the Arizona Cardinals. He's athletic and plays hard on defense and special teams.”
If you had to compare, who do you feel your game resembles at the NFL level?
Anderson: “Barry Sanders. He was a small back, but very elusive.”
Johnson: “Julius Peppers. He is a freak athletically with a non-stop motor.”
Besides winning the Pioneer Bowl, what is one game you will always remember from last season?
Anderson: “Beating Shaw (36-27). They're a division opponent and ever since I've been here, they have beaten us. It was emotional for us to finally get that win over them.”
Johnson: “Livingstone. The Commemorative Classic has a different feel from the other games and they're our school rival. We haven't lost to them since I been here and I really enjoy winning that trophy every year.”
Describe last season in one phrase.
Anderson: “Turning point. I feel like we're changing the program and rebuilding a winning culture. I really want to leave on a winning note.”
Johnson: “Hard work pays off. Our senior core worked hard and pushed everyone else to work hard as well; in the end the hard work paid off.”
What is one aspect of your game that you're working to improve this spring?
Anderson: “Keeping a good mental focus and footwork. Footwork is very important at the running back position.”
Johnson: “I'm trying to get my conditioning back where it needs to be.”
Lastly, what are some goals that you have set for yourself going in the 2012 season?
Anderson: “Making sure I step us as a leader on and off the field. I'm trying to win another ring, this year I want it to be a CIAA Championship ring.”
Johnson: “I want to make all-conference again and take it a step further to be an All-American.”
The Golden Bulls will open up the season on September 1st as they travel to take on West Virginia State University in Institute, WV. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m.
