Commitment Primer: Running Back Darwin Barlow Set to Make Decision Thursday

Oklahoma State’s top remaining target at running back in the 2019 cycle will make his long-awaited decision on Thursday.

Three-star prospect Darwin Barlow, a 5-11, 195-pound prospect from Newton, Texas, announced the news via his Twitter account Wednesday afternoon.

Committing tomorrow‼️ All I ever worked for God has given to me and I am so thankful??

— Darwin Barlow? (@darwin_barlow) August 22, 2018

In the mix

Oklahoma State’s in the mix, but not considered the favorite going into his decision. All signs point to TCU right now, but he’s also considering Minnesota and Arkansas.

How he fits

After bringing in a big, physical back last cycle in Jahmyl Jeter, Barlow could be a perfect complement. He’s a physical runner like Jeter, but he’s got get-away-from-the-cops Clint Chelf speed that can’t be taught. Justice Hill potential, if you will.

Scouting

I say he’s Justice Hill-lite (he’s actually bigger than Justice was coming out of high school), but the coaching staff is selling him on becoming the next Chris Carson. And he seems to like it.

“They have watched me during the spring play running back and receiver,” he told Rivals recently. “I think that I fit perfectly in their offense – they’re always sending me plays telling me that I can be their next Chris Carson.”

Connections

Barlow visited Oklahoma State on an official basis in June, and all went well based off his Twitter reaction in the days that followed. In fact, he’s only made one official since — to Minnesota.

Barlow’s teammate, Tamauzia Brown, is also an OSU target. He’s likely making his decision soon, but OSU doesn’t appear to be a suitor. However, TCU does … which leads me to believe my final #take will be correct come Thursday.

Prediction: TCU.

If it’s OSU when he makes his announcement Thursday, I won’t be totally stunned. The staff has worked hard to make him a priority. But plucking him from Texas and TCU is quite the ask … so I think a runner-up finish is in line for the Pokes.