| by Matthew Manuri | SoFloBulls.com |
‘Toro Taggart’ Means Business on the Recruiting Trail
“It doesn’t matter if you’re a sophomore or senior. When you put up 2,050 all-purpose yards in a season, someone is going to notice you.
That’s the case with 2015 running back Traveon Samuel (Phenix City, Ala./Central), who has exploded onto the scene as of late.
The 5-foot-8, 175-pound back is fresh off a solid sophomore campaign and already has offers from Auburn, Clemson, Duke, Jacksonville State, Ohio State, South Florida, Tennessee and UAB.
Add interest from Alabama, Georgia, Miami (Fla.), Mississippi State, North Carolina, Ole Miss, Oregon, South Carolina and Texas, and things get even more exciting for the do-it-all Samuel, who has played running back, slot receiver, quarterback for the Red Devils.
It’s a little overwhelming even for a back used to the limelight. It’s also something that is a driving force for him as well.
“It’s made me mature a lot,” Samuel said. “I try to stay humble. There’s no reason to get a big head. I’m always working. I’m going to just keep moving forward and pushing on.”
Samuel’s latest offer came from Ohio State, and it’s one he cherishes. Living in Alabama, he knows the tradition Urban Meyer brings to a school and the instant success programs have had under the two-time national champion.
Of course success is starting to follow Samuel, who rushed for 832 yards on 83 carries, caught 43 passes for 734 yards and scored 24 total touchdowns last season.
“It feels good to get that Ohio State offer,” Samuel said. “It was unexpected, so it was big. I still have to work to do, but that offer shows I made a big step up from freshman to my sophomore year. I need to try to keep getting better. I’m a great route runner, who is good in space.”
by Brad Bournival, ESPN.com