As one of the top recruits in the country, four-star running back Nate Frazier included the Huskers in the list of his top eight schools alongside a host of powerhouse programs. But what are the reasons that the staff would take a chance on him in their class? Let’s break it down.
BREAKING: Five-Star RB Nate Frazier is down to 8️⃣ Schools!
The 5’11 210 RB from Compton, CA is ranked as the No. 15 Player in the ‘24 Class (No. 1 RB)
Where Should He Go?👇🏽https://t.co/wpQEqXy0zM pic.twitter.com/QqIMXSg5GN
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) July 11, 2023
Reasons For Optimism
NU’s Recent Rushing History
Along with the Cornhuskers, Frazier’s commitment is being analyzed by the juggernauts of college football. This includes teams like Georgia, Alabama, Oregon and Tennessee. Because of this offer list, EJ Barthel and Garrett McGuire would have to work hard to earn his commitment. And based on the program’s recent failures under Scott Frost, that becomes even harder to do. But there is hope in NU’s recent rushing performances. Last season under Bryan Applewhite, junior Anthony Grant rushed for 915 yards and six touchdowns on 218 carries. In his freshman season, Ajay Allen was equally impressive when he rushed for 190 yards and two touchdowns in his appearances. However, what might turn a prospect like Frazier away is that Nebraska hasn’t had a true threat. Only that distinction belongs to Devine Ozigbo. In the program’s 2018 season, he became the program’s leading rusher when he finished with 1,082 yards and 12 touchdowns.
A Good Visit In March
On March 25, the Huskers hosted Frazier and 25 other visitors for a massive recruiting weekend. But he wasn’t overwhelmed. In fact, according to 247Sports, he “was very high on the Huskers and in playing for Matt Rhule.” Furthermore, he was also moved by their success in the NFL with the Carolina Panthers. From Frazier’s perspective, “When you’ve got coaches that just coached Christian McCaffrey, that gets you fired up and lets you know what they are doing. Another big draw is the program’s fanbase and their continued support of their team throughout the decades. According to 247Sports, this left a huge impression on the coveted recruit because “they have been selling out tickets since 1962.” Because of this, he was very adamant that he needs to see a game in the spring.
Frazier’s Commitment Fits Nebraska’s Mold of A Big Ten Running Back Is Looking For
As the second-ranked player in California and the top running back in the 2024 class, Frazier has the makings of a football star. During his high school career, he’s earned that right. Last season for Mater Dei High School, Frazier proved his elite status when he rushed for 791 yards and six total touchdowns. On top of his rushing prowess, he also has top-end speed on the track. In his junior year, he ran a time of 10.77 seconds in the 100-meter dash. With Frazier’s commitment, the program will get a player with explosive traits that the staff is looking for.
Why He Won’t Sign With The Program
NU Is Saving Its Scholarships For Certain Recruits
As of right now, the staff has three targets in mind to finish up their recruiting before the season. This includes four-star interior offensive lineman Preston Taumua, and Miami cornerback Amare Sanders. Don’t be surprised if the two commit this month. Both Donovan Raiola and Evan Cooper have made huge inroads in each of their recruitments. As of now, 247Sports has both strongly leaning toward NU. In the case of Grant Brix, it is a different story. He came off a great visit to Alabama, but Kansas State captured his attention. Because of this, he has been forecasted to KSU multiple times. However, it may be too big of an ask. Head offensive line coach Conor Riley has three commits already in Ryan Howard, Gus Hawkins, and Kyle Rakers. But can the program bring one more in?
Read more about Grant Brix and other Nebraska targets here: The Remaining Targets for Nebraska on the Recruiting Trail
Kewan Lacy Is Already In The Fold
For Barthel’s second running back commit as a Cornhusker, he flexed his Texas connections once again to land Kewan Lacy. As the Huskers only running back commit, the four-star continues the Texas pipeline. He now joins tight end Ian Flynt and offensive lineman Gibson Pyle as the team’s only commits from the state. But his most important contribution is his speed. Last season for Lancaster High, Lacy rushed for 730 yards and 11 touchdowns to help propel his team to a 6-1 record in the district. Can he do the same for the Cornhuskers alongside their most productive back Anthony Grant. It’s certainly possible and there is no doubt that Rhule will give him a chance to contribute early. And if Nebraska earns Frazier’s commitment soon, it will make it even harder to decide the starter.
