Willow Canyon running back Darvon Hubbard is off to a hot start in this 2019 season.
Through four games, the 2020 recruit has rushed for 327 at 7.4 yards per carry and six scores. Additionally, he has caught 16 passes for 293 yards and three receiving scores.
Helping fuel that hot start was a body transformation after transferring from Chaparral to Willow Canyon. He ran track this offseason and has felt lighter on his feet.
“Right now, I’m like 195 pounds, it might be a little less than that,” Hubbard said. “Last year, I was like 212 (pounds). (I) dropped a bit, got faster and I just feel comfortable playing at this weight. It’s been good for me.”
The one-time Ohio State commit re-opened his recruitment this offseason, and schools like LSU, Michigan State, San Diego State and Indiana have been pursuing him closely.
Hubbard said he’s been in contact with LSU head coach Ed Orgeron recently and loves the running style of the SEC.
“They have a great system, a great coaching staff. After all it is running back university.”
Hubbard, who is a Akron, OH native, also sees himself fitting in nicely in Michigan State’s run-based offense.
“They definitely get the running back the ball a lot, a lot of downhill running, so it’s what I’m used to,” Hubbard said. “It’s back close to home. That’s definitely a good option for me.”
San Diego State has done a tremendous job recruiting Arizona recently. In this class, they already have commitments from Jay Rudolph and Joquarri Price. Former Centennial running back Zidane Thomas is also currently on the roster, and Hubbard could pair with him in the Aztec backfield.
“They always tell me to come there and be the next 2,000 yard rusher like Rashaad Penny, Donnel Pumphrey,” Hubbard said. “The coaches definitely know what they’re talking about. The guys always stay out of trouble. It’s a great school, great campus. I look forward to going down there (for a visit).”
Hubbard is not in a rush to make a decision and wants to focus on visits in the coming months before narrowing a list or making a commitment. He also wants to continue his hard work in the weight room and get “more smooth” while running.
