Vanderbilt reached into Maryland and grabbed a commitment from running back Jaire George. Let's see how he fits into Vanderbilt's scheme, and how he affects Vanderbilt's recruiting in the future.
Advertisement
How does George fit in?
Vanderbilt enters the 2015 season with only three upperclassmen running backs in Ralph Webb, Darrius Sims, and Dallas Rivers. That made the running back position one of the top priorities for this class, and Vanderbilt now has Josh Crawford and Jaire George committed for this class.
Ralph Webb is the leading returner rusher from a year ago. He rushed for over 900 yards during his freshman campaign. Dallas Rivers contributed over 200 yards last season, and Darrius Sims is making the switch from defensive back to running back. Sims was an electrifying kick returner last season.
George gives Vanderbilt a big back in the backfield. George is a 220-pound high school senior, and he has the frame to add weight. Vanderbilt head coach Derek Mason likes size and physicality, and George will definitely bring that dimension to the Commodore backfield.
What does it mean for Vanderbilt?
With the commitment of Crawford and George, Vanderbilt is likely still in search for other running backs if they are deemed right fits. With the addition of George and Crawford, that gives Vanderbilt five scholarship backs heading into the 2015 season.
Vanderbilt currently sits with sixteen public commits, and it is believed that Vanderbilt could sign as many as twenty prospects on Wednesday. If they don't find the right fit, Vanderbilt could also hold spots for the 2016 class, which will likely be a small class for the Commodores.
Scouting report on Jaire George:
George did most of his work from his outside linebacker position in high school. He will have to make the transition from linebacker to running back in college, but he has the physical tools to do so. At 6-foot-2 and 220-pounds, George is a big back much like his father Eddie George who starred for Ohio State and the Tennessee Titans.
On defense, George is a physical player that isn't afraid to make contact with a fullback coming to kick him out of the hole. He doesn't shy away from contact, and he looks the same with the ball in his hands despite limited film as a running back due to injury. He isn't overly athletic or fast, but he will have to punish defenses with his big frame and physical running style.
Jaire George has a frame that can likely add weight. His father played at 6-foot-3 and 235-pounds. Jaire is already 6-foot-2, and he could easily get to the 235-pound range in a college strength and conditioning program.