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Clemson Tigers: 3 Best options at running back in the 2018 recruiting class

Anthony Messenger
Anthony Messenger

Rubbing the Rock

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) runs the ball against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Adam Choice (26) runs the ball against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 22, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Adam Choice (26) runs the ball against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the second quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The Clemson Tigers are looking to sign one running back prospect in the 2018 recruiting class. Here are the Tigers best options.

At this point in the recruiting cycle, Clemson is on the outside looking in for the services of 5-star running back, Zamir White. Early on, Clemson was looked at as the favorite to land White, but, Georgia has come on strong over the past few months. White is reportedly scheduled to attend Clemson’s Orange and White game this weekend.

See also: Clemson Trending Down for Five-star 2018 RB Prospect Zamir White.

Clemson is actively recruiting a handful of other backs in the 2018 recruiting class, but, has yet to offer majority of them.

In a previous interview with four-star running back, Master Teague III he stated the following, “he (Tony Elliott) was saying he’s got four guys he’s looking at and he wants to come to my spring practice to see how I run, see how I move and if he likes it he might give me an offer then or close to that time.”

If Teague’s comments are any indicator it sounds as though Tony Elliott and the Tigers staff are waiting to watch each of these prospects in person, before extending any scholarship offers. The Tigers are thorough in the recruiting process and for good reason. Here are the three running backs the Tigers should turn up the heat on.

Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) runs the ball against Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Rashaan Evans (32) during the second quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) runs the ball against Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Rashaan Evans (32) during the second quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Lyn-J Dixon (Butler, Georgia)

Lyn-J Dixon has over a dozen offers from power-five programs such as Alabama, Georgia and Notre Dame to name a few. Clemson recently hosted Dixon for a visit, however, they have yet to offer the Peach state native.

Looking at Dixon’s list of offers it was surprising to see him rated so low. Nick Saban and his staff at Alabama place a premium on the running back position, as such they don’t just offer anybody.

Upon watching Dixon’s film it was clear to see why the Tide, and Clemson alike, came calling. Dixon has the innate ability to make people miss, whether it be in space or in a phone booth. Dixon also has deceptive speed and makes good use of the stiff arm. The only issue I saw with Dixon on tape was his upright running style, but, that did not stop him from tearing opposing defense apart.

Dixon is an explosive athlete who would be a world of fun to watch in Clemson’s up-tempo offense.

Watch Lyn-J Dixon’s highlight film here.

With Zamir White looking like a lean to Georgia, Clemson must get in on Lyn-J Dixon now as they are already behind in his recruitment as well.

December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers running back C.J. Fuller (27) celebrates his touchdown scored against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
December 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Clemson Tigers running back C.J. Fuller (27) celebrates his touchdown scored against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the first half of the the 2016 CFP semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Master Teague III (Murfreesboro, Tennessee)

At the moment, it seems that South Carolina is the leader for Teague, however, his recruitment is far from over. Teague does not have an offer from Clemson at the moment, but, he could receive one this spring.

When speaking with Teague back in March, he said this of the atmosphere at Clemson.

“They bring their faith to the team and I think that’s real great. The culture is about building their players, they try to build them as men and as people outside of football and I think that’s great.”

Teague is similar to Wayne Gallman in his physicality as a runner, though Teague appears slightly faster. Clemson would be getting a down-hill back capable of breaking the big on every time he touches the ball.

Watch Master Teague’s highlights here.

It will be hard for Tony Elliott to not offer Teague a scholarship this spring as Teague is also a freak in the weight room.

Jan 7, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) during Clemson Tigers practice at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Complex. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 7, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers running back Wayne Gallman (9) during Clemson Tigers practice at Tampa Bay Buccaneers Complex. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Jashaun Corbin (Rockledge, Florida)

Jashaun Corbin is the second underrated running back on this list. Though he is rated as a three star, Corbin holds offers from the likes of Florida State, Michigan and Tennessee,  including many others.

It is not hard to see why Jashaun Corbin has over 20 scholarship offers. As soon as you press play on his highlight tape his speed jumps out at you. Corbin appears to be the fastest of the three running backs on this list.

See also: Early Look at Clemson’s 2018 Recruiting Class

Corbin also displays great balance and athleticism. On film, Corbin can be seen lined up at running back, quarterback and in the slot. At 6-foot, 190 pounds, Corbin is tall enough to play wide receiver and he has the hands to do so.

Clemson would be getting a versatile athlete in Jashaun Corbin, whom they could move all over the field and use as a return man. Co-offensive coordinators Jeff Scott and Tony Elliott are not afraid to throw the ball to their running backs out of the back field, as such Corbin would be a perfect fit in the Tigers offense.

Watch Jashaun Corbin’s highlights here.

Next: 3 In-state Prospects To Watch in the Class of 2018

Be sure to stay tuned to Rubbing The Rock for more Clemson Tigers recruiting news.

Anthony Messenger

Anthony Messenger

Native of Maryland. Salisbury University. Aspiring broadcaster.