Perich attended Esko High School in Esko, Minnesota. As a junior, he rushed for over 800 yards, notched 75 tackles, two sacks, three interceptions, four forced fumbles, and 25 touchdowns.[1] In the first game of his senior season, Perich intercepted two passes which he returned both for touchdowns.[2] As a senior, he amassed 27 total touchdowns: 16 rushing, five defensive, four return, one passing, and one receiving.[3][4] Perich also notched 76 tackles, three interceptions, and four fumble recoveries on defense,[5] earning all-state recognition.[6] He accepted an invite to play in the All-American Bowl, where he intercepted a pass on the goal line and blocked a punt en route to earning game MVP honors.[7]
Recruiting
Perich received offers from schools such as USC, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa and Washington,[8] as well as late offers from Florida State and Ohio State.[9] He committed to play college football for the Minnesota Golden Gophers.[10]
College career
As a freshman, Perich recorded 24 solo tackles, one pass defended, one forced fumble, and five interceptions.[11] He was named first-team All-Big Ten Conference and second-team All-American following the conclusion of the regular season.[12][13]
