Charlie Johnson (Duke) - Becoming a Defensive Technician

All-American Charlie Johnson joins The Ride to discuss his summer recovery routine, how the new NCAA five-and-five rule impacts leadership urgency, describes former roommate Aidan McGuire’s quiet off-field personality and game-breaking aggression, and details how to play around an ultra-physical D-middie. Charlie goes deep on defensive technique—approaches, using full six feet, angles, football DB footwork, engaging with top-hand jams, V-hold leverage and pinning, avoiding slap checks, and balancing matchup pride with team defense—then reflects on Duke’s streaky season, the Richmond night-game atmosphere, and Princeton’s depth.