Oklahoma Sooners likely to win running back recruiting battle over USC

Four-star Longview (Texas) running back Taylor Tatum looks likely to commit to Oklahoma

Four-star Longview (Texas) running back Taylor Tatum is no longer expected to make his visit to Michigan this weekend. That means two teams are left standing in his recruitment: USC and Oklahoma.

After Tatum visited USC earlier this month, many thought the Trojans were in pole position to land the tailback. But after his OV to Oklahoma last week, it's now the Sooners that appear likely to receive his commitment. On3.com's Sam Spiegelman wrote yesterday that he anticipates Tatum will choose Oklahoma.

That prediction comes in the wake of multiple articles forecasting Tatum to USC from reporters at 247Sports.com and On3.com.

Losing out on Tatum, the No. 1 running back in the 2024 class, will no doubt sting for USC fans. But the Trojans did land two four-star tailbacks in their 2023 class in Quinten Joyner and A'Marion Peterson. South Carolina running back transfer MarShawn Lloyd still has multiple years of eligibility remaining as well. 

McKinney (Texas) three-star running back Bryan Jackson is the lone running back commit currently in USC's 2024 class.

Here's some of 247Sports.com's scouting report on Tatum:

Requisite height and frame with perhaps relatively leaner stature, but good build with space to add mass. Broad-shouldered and assembled well. Instinctive lane-finder. Plays with patience. Presses blocks to allow for holes to materialize. Also knows how to buy a couple more strides of time on perimeter runs to help blockers re-route defenders. Quick-footed in the hole. Regularly makes something out of nothing when penetration disrupts play in the backfield. Uses an effective hesitation to set up evasive measures in space. Plenty functionally athletic to bounce runs, but plays with good discernment for a young back and keeps plays inside as needed. Flashes high-kneed, open-field speed to hit the big play. Run-finishing ability plays above listed size. Outstanding production in junior season. Counting stats made huge jumps with higher volume, but per carry rate also remained high. Capable pass catcher who can flex to the slot and provide a true receiving threat. Excellent athletic profile. Three-sporter who's also a high-level baseball standout with hitting power and outfield range.