Lakeside running back Michael James took a backseat at times to classmate Dupree Swanson in the Rams' backfield the last two seasons, but the senior stood front and center on national signing day.
Garnering interest from numerous schools, James signed a national letter of intent Wednesday to play football for Southern Arkansas University in Magnolia.
"It was the first school that I visited, and the coaching staff really made me feel wanted," James said. "They showed me that I would be a vital part of their team, and that meant a lot to me. I really thought I would thrive academically there as well, and it was easy to pick when they offered the money and I'd be able to go to college for free."
After spending time at running back and linebacker for the Rams, James is looking forward to focusing all of his efforts on the offensive side of the ball for the Muleriders.
"I think it will really help a lot," he said. "I can really hone my skills at running back, and not have to worry about knowing every play on offense and defense. Not having to switch my mindset from one position to the other will really help me mentally as a player."
Earning all-state honors after rushing for 859 yards and eight touchdowns on just 118 carries as a senior, James proved his ability to thrive in a limited role.
That experience as an effective runner despite a part-time role should come in handy with an Southern Arkansas offense that had four players receive at least 37 rushing attempts this season.
"In college, there's usually not just one specific runner, so I think that will help me tremendously," said James. "Having experience with rotation and being able to make the best of the carries that I got will really help me early on."
Transitioning from Lakeside to Southern Arkansas, James will go from one of the most prolific offenses in the 5A-South to one of the most explosive in the Great American Conference.
The Rams torched opposing defenses for 378 yards and 34 points per game this season, while the Muleriders racked up a hefty 458 yards and 36 points per game.
Southern Arkansas had seven offensive players receive All-GAC honors this season as the Muleriders led the conference in total offense for the fourth consecutive year.
"It is always fun to score a lot of points," James said. "I think it will be an easier transition than maybe to a different school that plays more of a slow tempo. We were able to work the clock here too, but it's just a lot more fun to put points on the board."
Along with defensive back Brandon Chambers, who signed with Missouri Baptist on Wednesday, James helped continue an impressive legacy under coach Jared McBride.
Lakeside has now had at least one player sign a college letter of intent in each of McBride's eight seasons as head coach.
"(McBride) has great ties with the state, and he really helps us get our names out there," said James. "That is the main thing. As soon as you get noticed, then you can start working with them and earn yourself an offer. I think it says tremendous things about this program and the direction we are headed. Eight years in a row with at least one college player is a pretty good accomplishment."
Leaving Lakeside with an impressive list of accomplishments that includes two conference championships, an all-conference selection and an all-state selection, James is eager to put in the work to achieve similar goals at the next level.
"I really just want to work as hard as I can and play as soon as possible," he said. "I know I won't get much playing time my freshman year, but I want to go in there with a clear mind and just do everything that's asked of me.
"Outside of that, I want to keep my grades up and be the best student I can be. I'm grateful to be playing college football, but after that, I have to have a career to go into. Student comes before athlete, and I want to be the best at both."
Sports on 02/08/2018