In a significant boost to Alabama’s 2025 recruiting class, Akylin Dear, the nation’s top-ranked running back, has committed to the Crimson Tide, choosing them over Penn State and Tennessee. Dear, a standout from Quitman High School in Mississippi, had previously been committed to Ole Miss but reopened his recruitment in June 2024 after an official visit to Tuscaloosa.
Dear’s decision was influenced by his connection with Alabama’s coaching staff, particularly running backs coach Robert Gillespie and head coach Kalen DeBoer. “I feel like I would fit in from a football standpoint in Alabama because I have the heart of a champion, and that is Alabama’s mindset,” Dear stated.
With Dear’s commitment, Alabama continues to solidify its reputation for attracting top-tier talent, enhancing its offensive lineup for the upcoming seasons.
More News: Headline: Mountaineers Embrace 'Loose' Mindset as They Enter Clemson Regional Article: The West Virginia Mountaineers are set to kick off their 2025 NCAA Baseball Tournament journey in the Clemson Regional, facing the Kentucky Wildcats in the opening game. With a 41–14 overall record and a Big 12 Conference championship under their belt, the Mountaineers are entering the postseason with a renewed focus on playing "loose" and enjoying the game. Head coach Steve Sabins, in his first season at the helm, has emphasized the importance of maintaining a relaxed and confident approach as the team prepares for the regional tournament. "We want our players to feel the freedom to play their best without the pressure of expectations weighing them down," Sabins remarked. This mindset is especially crucial as the Mountaineers aim to advance to their second consecutive Super Regional. The Clemson Regional features a double-elimination format, with the Mountaineers opening against the Wildcats. The winner of this matchup will face the victor of the Clemson vs. USC Upstate game. The regional games are scheduled to take place from May 30 to June 2, with the winners advancing to the Super Regionals, set for June 6–9 . As the Mountaineers prepare for their postseason run, they are determined to embrace the challenge with a positive and relaxed mindset, aiming to make a deep run in the tournament.