2025 Interview with Buckston Johnson from Buckeye Trail
Buckston Johnson
Buckeye Trail
OL DL
2027
6’3” 250
Jersey Number 72
Awards won or earned: GMEC lineman of the week, Academic All Warrior
What has been your favorite part of being a member of the Buckeye Trail Football Team?
The brotherhood that is formed between the lines is unmatched; everyone out there is going all out for the same goal.
Baseball, basketball, or track: which one do you feel you are best at?
Right now I would say basketball. I recently switched from baseball to track, so I’m still working hard to improve at that.
How long have you been in each sport?
I started playing basketball and baseball at the YMCA when I was in kindergarten. I started playing football in 3rd grade. I did track during my 8th grade year, where I broke the Buckeye Trail Middle School record. After not doing track my freshman year, I decided to do it again this year and have really enjoyed it.
Can you explain to everyone in your words how tough it is to be involved in three sports and keep your GPA up?
The workload can be a lot at times, but I have a great support system. It was instilled in me at a young age that students come first in student-athlete.
What was the high point and low point of the 2024 season?
The high point for me was making the playoffs. It was a win and you’re in situation. We were blessed to come out on the winning end of a very physical game against Newcomerstown. The low point of the season would be losing our round 1 playoff game. Football is by far my favorite sport, and I hate when the season comes to an end.
What is it going to take to improve on the 6-5 season you guys had in 2024?
This may sound partial to my position group, but our linemen need to step up, particularly me. We are going to have a lot of young guys stepping into starting roles this year, and I plan to lead by example on and off the field.
Which game are you most excited about this season? Explain.
Caldwell. It’s week 1, so that means Friday nights are back! And it will be the first game played on their new field.
OG OT DE: Of the three positions that you have listed as positions that you play, which one do you feel you are best at?
I’ve played guard and defensive end my whole career. Last year was the first time I played offensive tackle. I take a lot of pride in being versatile, so I enjoyed having the opportunity to learn a new position, but I feel with my vision and speed I’m better at guard.
Of those three positions, which one is the toughest to prepare for?
I would say the most difficult is defensive end. Preparing for and recognizing the other team's formations. Lots of film study and our scout team working hard to emulate what we might see come game time.
Which teammate is the toughest to square up against in practice?
Last year it would have had to be Jackson Hess for sure! He was a very strong and physical teammate. He was a senior last season, so unfortunately I won’t have those battles with him this coming season.
Which weather is the worst for you to play in?
Rain due to it being slippery and not being able to get a good grip into the ground when firing off the ball.
What are your personal goals for the season?
I want to earn IVC, Eastern District, and State honors this year.
What is your favorite energy drink?
C4 Jolly Rancher green apple for sure. I just recently tried it and have been hooked ever since.
What is one food that you like that most others do not?
Pineapple does belong on pizza!
What song blaring over the PA system gets you fired up the most?
That’s a tough one for sure because I listen to a lot of music, but if I had to choose, it would be For Whom The Bell Tolls by Metallica.
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