2021 RUNNING BACK CRYSTAL BALLS TO PENN STATE

With the early signing period set to beging on Wednesday, Penn State continues to pursue running back Deshun Murrell. The former UCLA commit is a three-star recruit by the 247Sports composite ratings, but a four-star by thier ratings.

Murrell is set to announce his college decision on Friday. He will choose between Penn State and UCLA, and there are positive signs pointing toward the Nittany Lions. 247Sports director of recruiting Steve Wiltfong and Lions247 editor Sean Fitz have both logged crystal ball predictions in favor of the Nittany Lions.

Penn State has recruited as well as any program in the FBS in recent cycles at the running back position. Combine this with JaJuan Seider’s reputation as being an A+ recruiter and position coach, and fans should feel confident in any running back the Nittany Lions sign.

NEW OFFERS

As the Nittany Lions continue to look to potentially add another defensive back in their 2021 class, they have sent out a new offer to a cornerback committed elsewhere. This offer went out to Pitt commit Khalil Anderson.

Where Anderson’s recruitment goes will likely be known in the next 24 hours. If he signs with the Panthers during the early signing period then, obviously, his recruitment is over. If he does not, things could get interesting as the Nittany Lions are one of seven Power 5 programs to offer Anderson since he committed to Pitt.

The Nittany Lions have also extended an offer at a school they are quickly becoming familair with - Pike Road High School in Alabama. Pike Road is the home of 2021 wide receiver commit Harrison Wallace and recently offered 2022 running back Quinshon Judkins. 2023 offensive tackle Vysen Lang has now also picked up an offer from Penn State.

Lang’s recruitment is just starting to take off as the Nittany Lions became Lang’s fourth Power 5 offer. Typically an offer in Alabama would not be one to pay much attention to, but because it is at a school the Nittany Lions have some connections with it is one worth monitoring.

PENN STATE COMMIT PICKS UP A BIG HONOR

Those who read Blessed & Honored weekly know that wide receiver Liam Clifford is one of my favorite players in Penn State’s 2021 recruiting class. While Clifford continues to be overlooked and underrated by some recruiting services, he is still picking up plenty of accolades.

Clifford has taken home another accolade. Last Thursday, he was named the Ohio Division 1 High School Football Offensive Player of the Year.

This is not exactly a surprise as Clifford finished his 2020 season with 72 receptions for 1,090 yards and 12 touchdowns. His performance helped lead the St. Xavier Bombers to a state championship. Congratulations to Liam on his terrific senior season and earning this big honor!