Future SEC running back led Lincoln to first state title in school history.
Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding performers in high school football. America's source for high school sports continues the tradition to close out the 2022 season by naming the top player in each state. Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in addition to local and state accolades.
Roderick Robinson of
Lincoln (San Diego) is the 2022 MaxPreps California High School Football Player of the Year. The 6-foot-1, 230-pound senior running back led the Hornets to a 13-1 record and the CIF Division 1-AA championship, the first state title in school history.
Robinson carried 217 times this season for 2,378 yards and 37 touchdowns. He added 12 receptions for 128 yards and two more scores.
In a 33-28 win over NorCal powerhouse De La Salle (Concord) in the championship game, Robinson pounded out 218 yards and four touchdowns on 22 carries. A week earlier in a 37-14 win over Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth) in the Southern California 1-AA regional final, he had 16 carries for 181 yards and four touchdowns.
Earlier in the season, Robinson tied the San Diego Section record with eight rushing touchdowns in a 56-20 win over Mater Dei Catholic (Chula Vista). In that contest, he ran 32 times for 476 yards.
The latest in a long line of star running backs at Lincoln that includes Marcus Allen and Terrell Davis, Robinson committed to Georgia in October after previously casting his lot with UCLA.
Each state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in the MaxPreps All-America Team, which will be released January 10.
Past MaxPreps California Players of the Year 2021 – Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Servite (Anaheim)

MaxPreps California Player of the Year Roderick Robinson makes a play against De La Salle in the Division 1-AA state championship game. (Photo: Louis Lopez)