Signed, Sealed and Delivered ND Commits – Running Backs

The two recruits coming in mirror the current situation at running back - a lot of talent and potential, just not a lot of game experience.  With the departure of Riddick and Wood, the Irish running game will need to identify new leadership.  George Atkinson is the most likely candidate for the starting role, but he may not be the back to take all the snaps, and durability may be an issue.  Currently, there are several backs looking to showcase their abilities: Cam McDaniel, Amir Carlisle, Will Mahone, and non-scholarship player Tyler Plantz.  Traditionally, you may not want to burn a year of eligibility on a freshman back to give them a handful of carries, but the Irish may need to. The good news is that they plenty of opportunity for success.

Tarean Folston  signed his letter of intent later in the day than the majority of his classmates, which, along with a late in the process visit to Auburn, had rumors swirling that he may not end up in South Bend.  Alford and Martin did a great job recruiting this talent out of the SEC hotbed of Florida.  Folston is a 5’10” 190 lb. solid four-star running back who will most likely redshirt next year, saving him a year of eligibility, while the rest of running backs left (after the departure of Wood and Riddick) jockey for reps.  However, Folston has the ability to impress during the summer and fall and see reps this year.

See for yourself

Greg Bryant was listed as a five star recruit by several services and is a great back for this class.  Bryant is another steal out for the state of Florida and out of the hands of SEC programs including Alabama, Auburn, Florida, Mississippi and South Carolina.  I love watching this kid’s highlight films and what stands out the most are his yards after first contact.  Many criticize his open field speed and his ability to elude tackles.  Although these are not his strong points, I still want to see what this kid can to at the next level.  The pictures I have seen of this kid’s upper body build says he should embrace what he is (a hard hitter), and I would think twice about hitting this guy head on.   By the way, Folston also has decent hands catching the ball out of the backfield.

 See for yourself