Hoosiers add Hamilton, Ohio Defensive Back A'Shon Riggins
/Written By: Nick Holmes (@HoosierHolmes)
No, that's not an echo you're hearing, that was in fact the third boom in the last 24 hours. After adding two defensive commits over the weekend in safety Khalil Bryant and defensive end Allen Cater, the Hoosiers picked up another in cornerback A'Shon Riggins. The Ohio native announced via Twitter on Monday afternoon that he had committed to play football at Indiana.
HoosierHuddle was able to speak to the talented defensive back prior to his workout and conditioning this afternoon, this is what he had to say about his commitment to Indiana. "When I first went up there, I really liked it," said Riggins. "But before I committed I really wanted my family to come and see the school first. They liked the school, which made the decision much easier."
Location was also a major plus for the young athlete when deciding to choose the Hoosiers. "It's only two and half hours away, so it's not a hassle for my family to travel to and from my games. Also, if they need to bring me something, it's not a big deal."
Riggins saw action at both quarterback and cornerback this past season for Hamilton High School, the same school that current Hoosier linebacker Marcus Oliver attended prior to making his way to Bloomington. When asked how much of a factor this played into his decision, Riggins replied, "Having someone there from my high school really helps. He'll be there the first two years I'm there, so he can help me get used to the college environment."
Oliver also told him how well the players are treated in Bloomington and how enthusiastic the coaching staff is, specifically Riggins future position coach, Brandon Shelby. "Coach Shelby is really energetic, but he will get into you when it's necessary, "said Riggins. "But it comes from the heart because he just wants you to be your best."
In addition to Indiana, the three-star commit also had offers from Cincinnati, Illinois, Miami (OH), Nebraska, Ohio, Toledo, West Virginia, and Western Michigan. According to 247 Sports Composite Rankings, Riggins is the 49th best player in the talent-rich state of Ohio and is the 119th best cornerback in the nation.
Riggins is the Hoosiers six commitment in the 2016 class, joining fellow Ohioans quarterback Peyton Ramsey and lineman Ryan Smith, Florida safety Khalil Bryant, and running back Tyus Flakes and defensive end Allen Cater, both of whom are from Georgia.
Stay tuned as things continue to get more interesting on the recruiting front for the Hoosiers.