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Louisville added another running back to its recruiting class of 2015 when Dutch Fork High's (S.C.) Matt Colburn verballed to the Cards on Wednesday. The three-star prospect announced his decision on Twitter.
I'm officially committed to The University of Louisville!!! #GoCARDS'
— Sir Colbson (@Colburn31) June 25, 2014
Despite missing some significant time because of a knee injury, Colburn finished the 2013 season with a school record 2,488 rushing yards, 418 receiving yards and 42 touchdowns. He capped off his junior year by leading Dutch Fork to a AAAA Division 1 state championship, and was named the Division 1 Player of the Year.
Though he stands just 5'8, 186-pounds, Colburn has built a reputation for being one of the strongest running backs in the state of South Carolina, and one who isn't going to shy away from contact.
But let Colburn put on the green and silver Dutch Fork football uniform and he transforms. For the past two seasons, he has punished opposing defenses with a style where he would rather run through a tackler instead of around. Area coaches routinely game-plan ways to stop the 5-foot-8, 180-pound bulldozer.
"He has really grown up since his ninth grade year," Dutch Fork coach Tom Knotts said. "He was a fun-loving guy - not in any trouble - but he has developed into a very mature football player and teammate. He would do anything the coaches ask of him. We know we're going to get his best effort every time he steps on the field."
Colburn relishes contact in football. He is one of first ones in and last ones out in the weight room. One college player he likes to watch is South Carolina running back Mike Davis, another under-sized bruiser.
"Ever since my days at Seven Oaks in the Pop Warner league I have always tried to be the hammer and not the nail," Colburn said. "I try to run full speed and give it all my effort every play. But I do like the contact."
Despite "liking the contact," Colburn also has the speed to run away from defenders instead of into them. He recently ran the fastest 40-yard dash at the Tennessee camp in Knoxville, and has been described as a "legit 4.5 guy."
Here's Colburn in action:
