On December 31, when Ohio State squares off against Miami in a College Football Playoff quarterfinal, all eyes will be on Mark Fletcher Jr., a running back for the Hurricanes. Fletcher, who played a pivotal role in Miami’s upset victory over Texas A&M in the opening round, has a history with the Buckeyes—having initially committed to them before shifting his allegiance to Miami.
Fletcher’s decision to decommit from Ohio State came just before the early signing period in late 2022, when he opted to stay closer to home in South Florida. Reflecting on his recruitment, he emphasized, “I felt that I would be most successful if I just stayed home and played for the Hurricanes. Everything just worked out for me.” This choice not only catered to his personal desires but also showcases the growing trend of recruits leaning towards programs in their home states.
Hailing from Fort Lauderdale, Fletcher had been part of a strong recruiting class for Ohio State, which included four Florida recruits. Among them was slot receiver Brandon Inniss, who was Fletcher’s teammate at the American Heritage School.
In his first season as Miami’s leading running back, Fletcher has made quite an impact, amassing 857 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Despite missing two games in November due to injury, he returned just in time for the playoffs, showcasing some impressive skills. His standout performance against Texas A&M included a remarkable 172 rushing yards, highlighted by a 56-yard breakaway run that was crucial in clinching the game’s winning touchdown.
Going into the matchup against the Buckeyes, Fletcher will face a formidable challenge posed by Ohio State’s top-ranked rushing defense, which has kept 10 out of 13 opponents under 100 rushing yards. However, if Fletcher’s recent momentum continues, he could become a significant factor in the game.
The decision to decommit from Ohio State was not easy for Fletcher, who recognized it as a vital part of his growth. “That conversation was hard,” he recalled, indicating how important it is for athletes to navigate such tough choices during their careers.
As he prepares to meet his former team at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Fletcher sees this game as a significant moment in his journey. “It definitely kind of feels like a full-circle moment,” he expressed, underscoring his gratitude for the opportunity to compete at this level. With aspirations high, both Fletcher and the Hurricanes will look to make a statement against one of college football’s powerhouses.