In recruiting battle with Oklahoma and Michigan, 'USC set the bar' for 4-star running back

It's been fairly well documented that USC, Oklahoma and Michigan are the three schools most likely to land four-star Longview (Texas) running back Taylor Tatum.

Tatum, the nation's No. 1 rated 2024 tailback, took an official visit to USC last weekend and told 247Sports.com's Steve Wiltfong: “I definitely think USC set the bar. Maybe just because it was my first official but they really showed me how I fit in the offense so well and how I could benefit outside of football and what it means to go to USC.”

Tatum also hopes to play baseball in college and reportedly had a meeting with Trojans head coach Andy Stankiewicz. 

USC made quite the impression.

Tatum will take an official visit to Oklahoma in two weeks before traveling to Michigan the week after. 

Here's some of 247Sports.com's scouting report on Tatum.

Requisite height and frame with perhaps relatively leaner stature, but good build with space to add mass. Broad-shouldered and assembled well. Instinctive lane-finder. Plays with patience. Presses blocks to allow for holes to materialize. Also knows how to buy a couple more strides of time on perimeter runs to help blockers re-route defenders. Quick-footed in the hole. Regularly makes something out of nothing when penetration disrupts play in the backfield. Uses an effective hesitation to set up evasive measures in space. Plenty functionally athletic to bounce runs, but plays with good discernment for a young back and keeps plays inside as needed. Flashes high-kneed, open-field speed to hit the big play. Run-finishing ability plays above listed size. Outstanding production in junior season. Counting stats made huge jumps with higher volume, but per carry rate also remained high. Capable pass catcher who can flex to the slot and provide a true receiving threat. Excellent athletic profile. Three-sporter who's also a high-level baseball standout with hitting power and outfield range.