The #2 Sophomore Running Back In Tennessee: Asa Barnes

Asa Barnes is a 4 Star recruit who plays Running Back at Westview High School. Barnes is ranked as the 248th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 20 Running Back in the class as well. In addition, Barnes is listed as a top 10 recruit in the state of Tennessee and is listed as the #2 Running Back in the state of Tennessee. He holds offers from schools such as Alabama, Ohio State and Ole Miss.

Who are some role models in your life?
My biggest role model is definitely my mom. She has been by my side throughout this whole journey and always keeps me humble.

What artists do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?
Some artists I listen to pregame are Future, Gunna, Babytron, and Young Thug.

What are the strengths of your game?
I think some strengths in my game are my IQ, strength, speed, and my ability to read the defense.

What is your favorite memory of your career?
My favorite memory of my career is during my sophomore year in the playoffs against Dyersburg, when I had 3 touchdowns against 2 SEC defensive linemen.

Who is the best player you have ever played with or played against in your career?
The best player I’ve ever played with is Graham Simpson, and the best player I’ve ever played against is Covington’s Skylar Smith.

What is some advice you would give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Some advice I would give to an aspiring D1 athlete is that academics come first, and to continue working hard because someone is always watching.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
If I could travel anywhere in the world, it would be to Bora Bora because of the beautiful water, hot climates, and how remote it is from the rest of the world.

How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I’ve been playing football since I could walk, so I would say I fell in love with the game around the age of 5.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
If I could meet one sports hero, it would be Walter Payton because he has always been my all-time favorite running back since I was a little kid.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?
My favorite sports moment as a fan was when DeVonta Smith scored the game-winning touchdown against Georgia in the 2018 National Championship.