Byrnes defensive end Justice Hopkins capped off an incredible senior season for the Rebels by competing in the Shrine Bowl last weekend.
Hopkins, who remains uncommitted, told GreerNews.com at the beginning of the season that he had three personal goals.
The first? To rack up 15+ sacks on the year. Check.
The second? To be named an All-State player. Hopkins checked that off the list earlier last week, when he was announced as not only an All-State player for his class, but an overall All-State defensive lineman.
And Hopkins’ final personal goal for his senior season? Being named to and competing in the Shrine Bowl.
Hopkins still remembers his reaction when he found out he was selected for the prestigious game.
“I was watching the Shrine Bowl live announcement show, and as soon as they said my name, my dad busted through my door and picked me up and threw me around in excitement,” said Hopkins. “Mind you, I weigh 235 pounds already. But we had already talked about this before the season, and it was one of my goals. So I was very blessed and thankful to be selected.”
Hopkins performed well in the game, plugging up the run game on his side of the line of scrimmage and helping the South Carolina defense shut down the North Carolina offense all afternoon.
South Carolina downed North Carolina 17-7 for the team’s fifth win in the series in six years.
“It felt great to represent my state,” said Hopkins. “I’m always playing to represent my school, and even more, it felt good to play for my state. It’s a great honor to be playing with the best of the best and represent my home.”
Hopkins has several offers from colleges at the Division 2 and Division 3 levels, but has yet to decide on a home. He knows exactly what he’ll bring to the table at any program.
“I think first off, my pass rush is really good. I think I can bring great pass rush to any college, and don’t let my height [6-foot-2] fool anyone,” said Hopkins. “I’ve gone against Division 1 tackles all season and more than stood my ground, which is what I’m going to bring with me to the college level as well.”
No matter where Hopkins ends up playing in college, he leaves Byrnes after putting together one of the best statistical seasons for a Rebel defensive end in the last two decades.
Hopkins left it all on the field on Saturday in the Shrine Bowl, just like he did this year for his Rebels.
“Last year, I didn’t make all-region, so I really felt like I wasn’t doing enough,” said Hopkins. “I had felt like a role player, and there were definitely some players who didn’t respect my name. This season, I just wanted to show everybody the true me and play at the best of my ability.
“I always felt that I could compete with some of the top players in the state. I’m very proud of myself for accomplishing all the accolades I wrote down for myself before the season.”
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