2022 RB Arlen Harris Jr.: 'I loved it'

2022 Lutheran (Mo.) running back Arlen Harris Jr.‍ had been to Notre Dame in the summer for camp, but the explosive running back got his first game day experience on Saturday.

It’s safe to say the 5-foot-10, 175-pounder enjoyed is time watching Notre Dame beat USC 30-27.

“It was amazing,” stated Harris. “I was shocked. When I first visited for camp, I didn’t get to see a lot of different aspects of Notre Dame. Seeing the history and tradition of what Notre Dame stands for shocked me. It was spectacular.”

Harris was joined by his teammate and 2021 Notre Dame commit Gabriel Rubio‍ on the trip and both players saw how much the fans care about the Irish.

“One of the biggest things was the people and how dedicated people were,” explained Harris. “Rubio was right next to me and we were walking from building to building. People would see we were recruits and they automatically showed kindness and hospitality. They made sure we knew what they stood for and how special it is there.

“People were introducing themselves and telling me stuff about Notre Dame. I loved it.”

Another significant part of the visit was time with running backs coach Lance Taylor. With Harris being a 2022 prospect, Taylor is limited in terms of contact, so the in-person visit was huge to continue building a rapport.

“He was explaining to me that I was one of their top prospects on his list and I was special in his eyes,” said Harris. “He’s big on building a relationship. I was one of the youngest people in the group, but he was telling my dad the different ways to communicate because I’m too young for him to call me.  Calling him once a week to build a relationship because Notre Dame is going to be a top choice for my future.”

Harris also saw Notre Dame rush for over 300 yards on the night along with Tony Jones Jr. taking the soul of the Trojans defense as he ran for over 175 yards.

“Hearing how many yards they had on the ground – I loved it,” Harris stated. “I loved seeing him get that many carries and how they feed the backs. It got me excited and hyped up along with the rotations.

“I liked the offensive mindset and the different formations.”

The visit also allowed Harris the opportunity to meet other prospects from across the country.

Harris also admitted he got a little excited when he saw the size of Notre Dame’s offensive line commits and some of the prospects in town.

“The offensive linemen were big,” said. Harris. “I was surprised and I’d love to run behind those guys. Rubio was being nice to me and going around introducing me to certain people. I think there was a 2021 five-star running back there. I was glad to be around him to see his build and how he presented himself to see what the upperclassmen look like.”