If it weren't apparent that Missouri is looking for running back help, it is now. The Tigers landed a commitment from a third running back in the 2015 class on Tuesday, a commitment that could be the start of a big week for the Tigers.
ESPN Junior 300 running back Natereace Strong made his commitment official while on a visit with his teammates and showed Missouri fans what he might look like in a Tigers uniform in a year or two.
It's Official Nate has committed to Mizzou pic.twitter.com/48Nr9j1TTW
— Esl FlyersFootball (@Football_Flyers) April 8, 2014
Strong, ranked No. 226 overall, joins fellow running backs Chase Abbington and Ryan Williams in the class to go along with offensive line commit A.J. Harris.
Strong is a huge pickup for the Tigers as it further builds a bond with one of the top schools in the St. Louis area. Missouri also landed a prospect from East St. Louis (Ill.) in the 2014 class, three-star safety Gregory Taylor. East St. Louis has produced plenty of top prospects and is the home to two ESPN Junior 300 prospects in the 2015 class in Strong and defensive tackle Terry Beckner Jr.
Establishing a pipeline could be a big help to coach Gary Pinkel in the future.
Strong’s commitment will only help continue Missouri’s success on the ground, as the Tigers had the No. 16 rushing offense in the 2013 season. Pinkel and his staff could help themselves with the passing game this week as well as ESPN Junior 300 quarterback Drew Lock is set to make his announcement on April 9 and has the Tigers among his finalists.
Lock’s father played at Missouri, and if the No. 4-ranked pocket passer joins Strong in this class, it will be a huge week for the future of Missouri’s offense.
