One of the biggest recruiting developments for Texas came just prior to the start of June, when stud North Shore RB Zach Evans released a top 5 that did not include the Longhorns. Long before the Evans news though, it was thought the Texas coaching staff was really high on Salpointe Catholic (AZ) RB Bijan Robinson. Currently, it appears the plan is for Texas to possibly take 2 running backs in the 2020 class, so the Evans news did not stop the Longhorns pursuit of the fellow 5-star RB. Texas’ pursuit of Robinson was considered a bit of a roller-coaster. Texas the final official visit Robinson used, and many assumed he would end up in burnt orange. Following his official visit, there were rumblings the talented back was headed to Ohio State. Robinson never pulled the trigger though, and Texas was ultimately able to fend off the Buckeyes to gain his commitment.
Robinson is ranked as 4th best running back in the country and 22nd best prospect overall, according to the 247 composite rankings. The Arizona native chose the Longhorns over Ohio State, UCLA, Michigan and USC.
Film Analysis
Player Information
Name: Bijan Robinson
Position: RB
High School: Salpointe Catholic
City & State: Tucson, AZ
Measurables
Height: 6’0
Weight: 200
40-yard time: 4.50
Shuttle: N/A
Statistics
2017: 189 rushing attempts, 2023 yards, 26 TD’s- 8 receptions, 136 yards, 3 TD’s
2018: 170 rushing attempts, 2400 yards, 35 TD’s- 10 receptions, 153 yards, 1 TD
Film
http://www.hudl.com/video/3/7796018/5c2c7ef90dc125053ce4aa92
Three Best Traits:
|
Three Worst Traits:
|
Summary
Bijan Robinson possesses all the tools to be a superstar running back. Spend 2 minutes watching his film, and it is easy to see why he is one of the most coveted rushers in the country. His elusiveness is the number one thing that stands out on his film. He routinely turns what should be a 5 or 10 yard gain, and somehow finds a way to break free. What makes it more impressive is his ability to make people miss without spending much time running east-west. When he comes face to face with multiple defenders, he puts his foot in the ground, makes one move, and is off to the races. He can run through or around defenders with ease. He looks natural with the ball in his hands, which could help him to develop into a decent pass catcher after not catching many balls at Salpointe Catholic. His acceleration and burst help him play faster than what his 40-time or straight line speed may say. The biggest question mark for Robinson once he gets on the 40 acres will be his ability to maintain his elusiveness once the holes get smaller and the defenders get quicker at the college level. If everything falls into place, he will have the opportunity to be a workhorse back for the Longhorns and have multiple 1,000+ yard seasons.
Final Verdict
Texas went to Arizona last cycle for a couple of really good players in WR Jake Smith and TE Brayden Liebrock. The addition of Robinson will only help the Longhorns as they continue to go to Arizona for quality prospects in future classes. Robinson’s skillset should allow him to make an impact the minute he steps on campus, which is something the Longhorns will really need as they look to build quality depth at the running back position.