Notre Dame has found itself in a tug-of-war with top prospects' hometown programs throughout the years, and historically has only come away with a rope burn.
But in the case of Top-25 running back Keivarae Russell, the Fighting Irish may have won this fight.
Russell, of Everett, Wash., is the No. 25 running back prospect in the 2012 class according to ESPNU, and he's made visits to Washington, Notre Dame and Cal, while being courted by such programs as Arizona, Arizona State, Boise State, Colorado, Oregon State, Stanford, UCLA and USC.
Russell, one of only four Top-25 running back prospects who have yet to commit, just said that he's narrowed his decision down to Washington and Notre Dame.
Said Russell of the two programs, via ESPN:
"Notre Dame was a great visit, and despite the distance, the coaches have been recruiting me harder than anyone. I also like their scheme on offense and how they would use me. Washington is the hometown school, and they have a great coaching staff, as well. I really like Coach Sark [Steve Sarkisian], and I think they’re building something pretty special right here in my own backyard.”
But despite his feelings of affection for his hometown school, Russell knows as anybody that he can't pass up Notre Dame for Washington.
The Huskies were disappointing this season, going 7-5 and getting blown out by several schools. On top of that, while the Fighting Irish have already landed six prospects ranked in the top 150, the Huskies have landed zero.
You add in the fact that Notre Dame was simply a better team this season and has star middle linebacker returning, and the choice isn't that difficult for Russell.
Hometown advantage only goes so far.
Expect Russell to land at Notre Dame.
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