Duke of Dade in the Making?

Miami Norland’s sophomore running back Randy “Duke” Johnson started creating a buzz around his name a year ago, seeing action on varsity as a freshman. Johnson gave a glimpse of his talents last fall, but in his past two games, he has given fans a full helping of what he brings to the football field.

The 2012 prospect that measures in at 5-foot-9, 167-pounds blasted Miami Edison for 205 yards on 14 carries, followed by 217 yards against Miami Jackson.

“The season is fine,” said a reserve Johnson. “The 200-yard games are thanks to my O-line and my receivers for all the good blocking they have been doing. The coaches have great play calling and a lot of hustle and good work in practice.”

While no running back gains yards on his own, Johnson’s combination of speed, strength, and balance certainly have something to do with the numbers he has put up the past two weeks. That balance and strength may be Johnson’s most impressive attributes, and hitting this young back high will most likely lead to yet another missed tackle on Johnson.

“I just keep my legs moving no matter what and hopefully get out of one or two tackles by moving your feet and just not going down easy,” said Johnson on his ability to bounce off defenders.

Johnson, who claims running a 4.4 second forty at the University of Florida’s camp this summer, ranks third in Dade County rushing leaders with 477 yards. He is trailing Jakhari Gore of Columbus with 629 yards and Hialeah’s 2011 back Jerron Seymour who has 519 yards. Lofty company for the sophomore considering he ranks just ahead of Booker T. Washington’s Eduardo Clements and Miami Central’s Brandon Gainer.

“I think I stack up to their level,” said Johnson on how he compares to the area’s top running backs. “I’m right there, right where they are at.”

The young ball carrier is aware he still has plenty to work to become the complete back he is striving to become.

“I think I need to improve on my stamina, my quickness and speed,” said Johnson. “Also my size, I got to get back in the weight room.”

Johnson and his Norland teammates next game is Saturday against Westland Hialeah.