It’s the end of June and commitments are still coming in like crazy, but it’s also a great time to analyze which programs are recruiting the best at each position for 2021. Here’s my take on the running backs.
MORE: Five programs recruiting QBs the best in 2021
CLASS OF 2021 RANKINGS: Rivals250 | Position | Team | State
CLASS OF 2022: Top 100
1. OHIO STATE
The Buckeyes easily lead the way with Virginia running back Treyveyon Henderson and North Carolina running back Evan Pryor. Both are elite, Rivals100 prospects with speed, agility and sneaky strength.
2. CLEMSON
With Will Shipley the nation’s No. 1 all-purpose back committed and Phil Mafah as a big, downhill guy in the Rivals250, this is a great 1-2 punch for Clemson. Shipley can do it all in the offense and Mafah can wear a defense down. Things just keep getting better for the Tigers.
3. TENNESSEE
The Vols have a very good 1-2 punch with Cody Brown out of Georgia being a top five back in the nation and North Carolina product Jaylen Wright being explosive in the run and passing game.
4. NORTH CAROLINA
There are some other classes out there with multiple running backs, but the value DeAndre Boykins brings as an in-state prospect with great versatility puts North Carolina on this list.
5. LSU
LSU went to the Midwest to land Corey Kiner who is a tremendous get and could have a similar career to Spencer Ware who also came from the same area.
Odds and ends: Auburn has a really good get in the form of in-state standout Armoni Godwin. ... USC has Brandon Campbell from Texas as a big-time running back commitment. ... Missouri has the best three-star tandem in Taj Butts and BJ Harris. ... Pitt has a nice combination in Malik Newton and Rodney Hammond.
