Four-star running back Taylor Tatum, out of Longview High School (Texas), is ranked as the second-best running back in the 2024 class and is now committed to be an Oklahoma Sooner.
Tatum picked up 39 scholarship offers during his recruitment. For Friday’s big announcement, he narrowed it down to Oklahoma and USC. He revealed his commitment to the Sooners in a ceremony livestreamed by Longview Gameday on Twitter.
Beating out Lincoln Riley’s program makes landing Tatum an extra-special commitment for Sooner fans. Tatum said Oklahoma’s future in the SEC tipped the recruitment in OU’s favor, per Eli Lederman of the Tulsa World.
“One of the main things was going to the SEC,” Tatum said. “Being a big dog in football and baseball. Growing up you see the LSUs, the (Texas) A&Ms, the Alabamas, the Georgias. I’m going to be part of the big dogs. Getting a chance to play baseball and football in the SEC is just something I couldn’t deny.”
Tatum had a highly productive junior season. He was named Texas District 7-5A D-I Overall MVP, rushing for 1,891 yards and 33 TDs on 8.33 yards per carry. He also caught three touchdowns to help his Longview squad to a 14-1 record and the Texas 5A D-I state semifinals.
Unlike Mike Matthews picking Tennessee over USC, this is a big loss for the Trojans’ offense in the future. Running back is a portion where USC has a need; the Trojans have some talented backs, but none near the talent and versatility of Tatum.
5-Star running back Taylor Tatum picks OU! pic.twitter.com/X7F5DBYfSN
— The REF (@KREFsports) July 21, 2023
[lawrence-auto-related count=1 tag=696092335]