The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly athletics in the 2022-23 school year is sponsored by Poly alum Jayon Brown and PlayFair Sports Management.
The562’s coverage of Long Beach Poly athletics in the 2022-23 school year is sponsored by JuJu Smith-Schuster and the JuJu Foundation.
After a lengthy recruitment process, Long Beach Poly All-American Tyson Ruffins signed with Nevada last week, in a ceremony attended by his family, friends, and teammates in Poly’s film room.
“I’m feeling really good about it,” said Ruffins. “I really liked Nevada when I went out there, and the recruiting class helped a lot. I like who they’re bringing in, I’ve played against the guys they’re bringing in. I think they’re top level guys too who’ve been overlooked a little.”
Ruffins proved himself one of the best offensive lineman in the state this year, and more than held his own at the All-American Bowl in San Antonio where he was matched up against four and five star defensive opponents. Ruffins was the first Jackrabbit offensive lineman to play in the game, and also excelled in Hawaii at the Polynesian All-American Game.
Ruffins’ decision came down to Nevada and Hawaii, and he said he’s hoping to be on the field sooner than later for Nevada.
“I’m looking forward to the competition and to going in with a chip on my shoulder to prove myself,” he said. “It’s going to be a big offseason for me.”
Poly coach Stephen Barbee has been effusive in his praise of Ruffins all season, saying he thought he was the best lineman in the state.
“He’s one of the best leaders we’ve had in my time here,” said Barbee.
Ruffins said he was happy to get to have a signing ceremony in the Poly film room with his support group around him.
“It was really cool, you know you have the village behind you but being able to see them all come together for your big days, that means a lot,” he said. “Family is a big thing around my household, and it’s really cool to have them all there with me.”
Ruffins calls to mind Joel Bitonio, the Wilson alum who signed with Nevada out of high school before going on to a six-time Pro Bowl NFL career with the Browns. Both were considered a little undersized as major recruits, but had high academics and work ethics. Ruffins said he actually met Bitonio while at Nevada on his unofficial.
“He’s a great guy, I hope it turns out that way for me too,” he said.
