Clemson gains commit from top running back

Clemson’s hold on some of the nation’s elite prospects was proven again Sunday when running back Cordarrion Richardson of Memphis committed after wrapping up a visit that included junior day on Saturday.

Richardson (6-foot, 220 pounds) is regarded by national analysts as one of the top backs in the country in the 2017 class.

“It was just a nice place to be around,” Richardson said. “Everything stood out, really.”

Before picking Clemson, Richardson also had on his short list Tennessee, LSU, Auburn, Oklahoma, Alabama, Michigan State and Florida State. Richardson is Clemson’s ninth commitment for the 2017 class.

▪  North Augusta defensive end Ty Lawson was at Clemson on Saturday, but did not receive an offer on the visit. Lawson said USC and Florida State are the two standing out the most right now, based on the strength of their interest in him, and he’s expecting all of Tennessee’s coaching staff to talk to him when he visits there Saturday.