Mars running back and two-time Butler Eagle Scoring Trophy winner Isaiah Johnson will continue his academic and football career at Shippensburg University.

ADAMS TWP — Running the football isn't just about physical talent for Isaiah Johnson. His emotion helped make him one of the most decorated backs in Butler County history.

The Mars senior will look to use that mind-set to his advantage at the collegiate level.

Johnson signed a letter of intent earlier this month to attend and play football at Shippensburg University.

Over the last two seasons, Johnson rushed for 3,046 yards, a 6.1 yards-per-carry average and 42 touchdowns. He won the Butler Eagle Scoring Trophy outright in 2015 and shared it with Karns City's Kaiden Powers last fall.

“My first impression of Isaiah was that he has speed and is a very good athlete who plays with passion,” Shippensburg coach Mark Maciejewski replied in an e-mail interview.

Maciejewski plans to use Johnson in the backfield of the Red Raiders' spread offense. It will be a big change from the Wing-T scheme Johnson has become accustomed to at Mars, but the intangibles he brings to the table should keep success within his reach.

“I've been playing football since I was 7 years old and have been a running back almost the whole time,” Johnson said. “I've always ran the ball with emotion.”

Johnson also starred as a defensive back for Mars last season.

“I love playing on both sides of the ball,” he said, “but being a running back is awesome. I think I have a little more to offer at that position.”

Johnson did consider several other schools, including New Hampshire, California (Pa.) University, Clarion and West Liberty. Shippensburg, however, was always the frontrunner.

“I went to a football game out there last fall,” he said. “They played Kutztown. I loved the atmosphere, everything from the fans to the team to the campus. It's what I was looking for.”

The Red Raiders, who compete in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference's East Division, have compiled a 46-22 record in Maciejewski's six seasons as head coach, including a 7-4 effort last year.

Johnson understands that there is a good chance he will be red-shirted, though Maciejewski did add, “If Isaiah or any freshman show that they can be an impact player right away, we will consider playing them their first year.”

Johnson is undecided on a major.

“My number one goal is to get a degree,” he said. “As far as football, I want to get on the field, make an impact and win a championship.”