Does Clausens decision affect Tyler

Notre Dame had an All-American class on campus last weekend for their spring game. One of those players visiting campus was running back Marc Tyler out of Westlake Village (Calif.) Oaks Christian who made the trek East with teammate and now current Notre Dame commitment Jimmy Clausen.

"It was a good visit back to Notre Dame," he said. "I had seen most of the stuff there on my last trip for a junior day, but this trip was the first time for my dad. It was nice and we got to see the game, Jimmy's commitment and everything else. I showed him around the school."

The Rivals100 back enjoyed taking in the Irish spring game.

"The game was crazy with 41,000 fans there. In California that is what you see at a regular season UCLA game," he said. "As far as the game, it looks like the running backs including Darius Walker were ok. I think Notre Dame provides a system I can really fit into. I especially like how the running back catches the ball out of the field. I really enjoy doing that."

Obviously the biggest part of the trip was when Tyler's teammate Clausen made his pledge to the Irish.

"That's great for him," he said. "Obviously Jimmy committing there makes me like Notre Dame even more. There is nothing like playing with a teammate you know and I know for a fact that he'll bring some other great guys with him. In the end though, I'm still going to do what is best for me, but Notre Dame is definitely up there."

Currently the California running back holds 25 scholarship offers, but four schools stand out for his services.

"I'd say my leaders are Notre Dame, Southern Cal, Oregon and Michigan," he said. "I like USC because I grew up living in California and everyone wants to go there. I also have been very impressed with what they have done over the past few years and Pete Carroll is a great coach.

"Michigan is a school I've liked ever since I was a young kid. They are always on television and the opportunity to play in the Big House is great. I plan on going up there for a visit sometime soon. I like Oregon because they have been in contact with me for a while. I also plan on visiting them.

"Finally, Notre Dame has Charlie Weis, Jimmy Clausen and I believe they are going to be really good in a couple years. They also have a 98.9 graduation rate for players."

While he is starting to narrow down his options, Tyler is beginning to think about when he wants to make a decision.

"I've thought about my commitment a bit and I'd like to either do it right before or after the season. I'm not exactly sure what I'll do yet."