Clemson Football: Tigers miss on 4-star 2018 RB prospect

The Clemson football program has missed out on yet another running back prospect. 4-star, Asa Martin announced his commitment to Auburn today.

Clemson was late to the party in Martin’s recruitment, extending a scholarship offer a little over a month ago in mid-July. Despite the timing of their offer, Clemson quickly became one of Martin’s top schools, making it in his top four along with Auburn, Alabama and Florida.

At 5-foot-11, 200 pounds, Martin is the complete back capable of gaining the tough yards between the tackles; breaking the long one and catching it out of the backfield. He will thrive in Auburn’s zone heavy scheme.

Significance

With Martin selecting Auburn, Clemson’s string of misses continues at running back. The Tigers have now offered eight running backs, seven of which are currently committed elsewhere.

The Tigers have made a more concerted effort to run the football in recent years, however, this offense is still predicated on throwing the ball. Programs such as Ohio State and Auburn, build their identity around running the football

It’s no coincidence that running backs choose to take their talents to a school that focuses their efforts on running the football. Clemson is elite in every sense of the word don’t get me wrong, but, they aren’t known for their rushing attack.

Martin isn’t the first prospect Clemson and Auburn battled over and he won’t be the last. Just two months ago, 4-star ATH Quindarious Monday – widely considered a Clemson lean – shocked many and committed to Auburn during an unofficial visit. There are even whispers that Clemson commit Kyler McMichael may flip to Auburn.

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Auburn is getting a balanced back with a lethal jump cut. Gus Malzahn and his staff continue to stockpile talent for their deep stable of rushers. With Kamryn Pettway potentially leaving for the NFL following this season, Martin may be in line for playing time as a true freshman.