Clemson lands Florida-based running back

Clemson’s second commit from Florida in three days came in the form of four-star running back Chez Mellusi, who committed to the Tigers on Monday night. One of the top back in the state of Florida, Mellusi ran for more than 2,000 yards a year ago chose the Tigers over a long list of college offers. Below, Rivals.com takes a look at how Mellusi’s pledge helps Clemson and hurts the schools that missed out.

HOW IT HELPS CLEMSON

Naples (Fla.) High School is famous for having running backs post gaudy rushing totals. Some of the past backs have worked out better than others on the college level, but Mellusi seems to be the most physically gifted Naples back in years. The four-star prospect has impressive size and surprising speed for a back of his large stature. Still, his calling card is power, which he showcases readily on Friday nights.

Landing Mellusi is a decent win for the Tigers, as many thought the tailback was enamored with Notre Dame. Miami was involved in his recruitment to a certain extent but wasn’t pushing as hard as they once were in recent weeks. Still, Clemson continues its trend of flexing its pull in the state of Florida, where it recruits better than any other out-of-state program.

HOW IT HURTS OTHERS

Notre Dame was Mellusi other real option, so it hurts the Irish in that way. That said, it’s not as though his commitment to Clemson will wreck Notre Dame’s class. It’s early in the process, making it unlikely that Irish head coach Brian Kelly was counting on Mellusi too heavily. Clemson offered Mellusi earlier this month and the speed with which he committed has to be a bit disappointing to other schools interested in his services.Florida State was also involved here to some extent.