Ohio State football: RB commit is the real deal

A lot of Ohio State fans were disappointed when the nation’s number three running back, Justice Haynes, chose to commit to Alabama. While Haynes certainly would have been a great addition to the 2023 recruiting class, let’s not forget the Buckeyes already have a running back commit and he’s a good one. Believe me, Mark Fletcher is the real deal.

Keep this in mind: the Ohio State football program did not settle for him. They took him early because they really like him. Of the eleven guys rated ahead of him by 247Sports at running back, Fletcher is the biggest of them all by ten pounds. The Fort Lauderdale native is 6’1”, 225 pounds, and while he may be rated just 12th at the position, he’s the best big back in the 2023 recruiting cycle.

Although you notice that size right away when watching him, there is so much more to like. Fletcher has VERY quick feet and displays an ability to make defenders miss in tight spaces. The thing I like about him most is he runs with his eyes.

He quickly identifies the hole and doesn’t waste time getting through it. His speed can be improved, but he is not a slow, plodder by any means. When you think of Fletcher, think former Buckeye Carlos Hyde-that’s probably the best comparison. Since the Buckeyes will almost certainly lose Miyan Williams after this season, Fletcher will be able to take on that big-back role eventually.

If you think this is all over-the-top fanboy talk in order to pump up a so-so recruit for his favorite team, think again. Mark Fletcher is the real deal. Don’t believe me? Watch his highlights and see for yourself by clicking here.

Of the eight running backs they’ve offered scholarships (not including Fletcher), only two are uncommitted, and neither has the Buckeyes high on their list. The only way I see them adding another to this class is if they are able to flip an already committed player or if someone who catches their eye during the season is worth pursuing. It is worth noting some think Fletcher is a candidate to be flipped to another school, but the consensus is Ryan Day and his staff will do enough to hang onto him.

Right now, the Ohio State football team has four scholarship running backs on the roster. As I stated, I expect Williams to be gone after this year and I also think, without question, Tre’Veyon Henderson will declare for the NFL Draft after the 2023 season. Most believe they’ll try to sign two running backs in next year’s recruiting class.

I stay away from fanboy stuff and give you my honest opinion. My honest opinion of Mark Fletcher is he is the real deal and a very good addition to the Ohio State program.