Countdown to 2019 IUFB Kickoff: 24 Days (Sampson James)

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Written by Nathan Comp

#24

The Hoosier Huddle countdown to kickoff is in its final leg. Just over three weeks remain until the Hoosiers kickoff the 2019 season in Indianapolis against the Ball State Cardinals. Today we will highlight the prized recruit of the 2019 signing class, running back Sampson James.

Sampson James (Freshman)

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 220 Pounds

Hometown: Avon, Indiana

Position: Running Back

The Sampson James commitment to Indiana was huge in the making of the Hoosiers’ 2019 class. But arguably more interesting was the story behind the commitment. In March of last year, the Avon High School product James was committed to Big Ten East foe Ohio State. Come October 6th when Indiana travels to Columbus to take on the Buckeyes, James is still committed to Ohio State. In fact, James is at the game on a visit with the Buckeyes. Flash forward 24 hours, Indiana has lost 49-26 to the Buckeyes. However, Sampson James had decommit from Ohio State and instead pledged his allegiance to their opponent that weekend, the Indiana Hoosiers. By doing so, the 4-star running back became the 2nd highest rated recruit to ever join the Indiana program according to 247 Sports and the headliner of the 2019 signing class.

In high school, James rushed for 3,451 yards on 573 carries with 38 touchdowns. He led Avon to two sectional titles and one regional championship. He was ranked the third best prospect in Indiana by ESPN and Rivals and the number 172 prospect nationally by 247 Sports.

James officially joined the Indiana program in January which allowed him to participate in spring practice. At 6’1” and 220 pounds, James does not look like a true freshman. He certainly already has the size to compete at the Big Ten level and should see a healthy number of carries his first year with the Hoosiers. He will join a strong running back room led by Coach Mike Hart that includes returning starter Stevie Scott, 2018 top recruit Ronnie Walker, senior Cole Gest, fellow 2019 recruit Ivory Winters, and talented Bloomington local Kristian Pechac.