Sept. 15, 2005

VANCOUVER, Wash. - By TIM PYLE, Vancouver Columbian staff writer

Everything is right on schedule for Jordyn Jackson in his college football career at Western Washington University.

The former Columbia River star is the Vikings' backup running back and a kickoff returner this fall after redshirting last year.

Ultimately, the 5-foot-9, 180-pounder expects to be Western's starting tailback. And his production on limited opportunities so far this season suggests a bright future.

"The coaches said the other game that every time they've put me in I've gotten better and better," said Jackson, who is second on the team in all-purpose yards with an average of 87.0 per game. "Everything's going really well."

As a senior at River in 2003, Jackson compiled 2,225 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns, earning The Columbian's All-Region player-of-the-year award.

His desire to continue playing running back steered him to the NCAA Division II Vikings, instead of accepting invitations to walk on, and probably pick up a different position, at Oregon State, Washington State or I-AA Montana State.

The presence in Bellingham of former Chieftain teammate Mike Schmit, a third-year sophomore safety for the Vikings, also influenced Jackson's decision.

After using his expected redshirt year to bulk up, Jackson is No.2 at running back behind senior Jake Carlyle after another senior, Duncan Sherrard, injured his knee.

Jackson has 62 yards on 11 carries, a 5.6 average, as Western (1-2) travels to No.4-ranked North Dakota for an 11 a.m.PT clash Saturday. He also has four receptions for 37 yards and a 23.1-yard average on seven kickoff returns, including a long of 48.

"In high school, there are certain players that are really, really good," Jackson said. "In college, it's like a team made up of those all-stars. Everyone's real fast at the skill positions."