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Notre Dame Football Recruiting

2022 RB Nicholas Singleton Focused on Relationships

February 17, 2021
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2022 Governor Mifflin (Pa.) running back Nicholas Singleton‍ is a name known throughout the country. 

The four-star prospect has put up big stats over his prep career and continued that production in 2020. 

Singleton only got eight games due to the pandemic, but he made the most of it. The 6-foot, 210-pounder ran for 1,303 yards and 24 touchdowns while averaging 12.5 yards per carry. 

"We went to the semifinals, but I'm sad we lost," Singleton told ISD. "We should have won that game, but we had a good year.

"Personally, I did OK. I could have had more yards if the games weren't canceled." 

Singleton has noticed improvements in his game and it's noticeable on his highlights. 

"I would say I noticed more speed, explosion and I was more physical," stated Singleton. "Sophomore year, I could usually run around people, but this year, I was able to lower my shoulder and go through people." 

The combination of power, size, and speed has made the Pennsylvania native one of the country's most coveted backs. Notre Dame offered early and Lance Taylor has started to make a significant push in recent months. 

"I've been talking to Coach Taylor on the phone once a week, but we text every other day to check up on each other," explained Singleton. 

"We didn't talk to each other like that during the season, but since the season is over, he has been able to focus on my class." 

Taylor isn't the only one involved here, as offensive coordinator Tommy Rees has expressed his desire for Singleton.

"I've spoken to Coach Rees too," Singleton said. "We are building a relationship. He's telling me he wants me to come down and visit again." 

When it comes to visits, Singleton is keeping good spirits despite the NCAA dead period due to the pandemic, but it's also been frustrating. 

The good news for Singleton is he was able to take some unofficial visits as a freshman and sophomore. It has allowed him to build his knowledge and familiarity on virtual visits as he's able to picture things in his head a little easier.

"It's tough," Singleton explained. "I was supposed to visit all these schools and now I can't. I don't really know what will happen yet. 

"I've been to Notre Dame two times, so seeing the whole place has helped a lot." 

Notre Dame continues to be in a good spot with Singleton, but there will be stiff competition down the road. 

Penn State and Ohio State are pushing hard for the Governor Mifflin star while Alabama, Michigan, North Carolina, South Carolina and Wisconsin are also making it known they want him in the class. 

"We have a tight relationship," Singleton said of Ohio State and Tony Alford. "We've always talked on the phone or through text to check in on each other." 

Penn State is a program that has also made a move in recent months as multiple coaches are involved with Singleton's recruitment. 

"It's been good," stated Singleton. "I'm supposed to do a Zoom meeting with them soon. I usually talk with the offensive coordinator, the running backs coach and Coach (James) Franklin." 

Singleton's next step will be to trim down his 30+ offers and ideally take his final visits to his top schools before a decision. 

"I'll come out with a top group sometime soon," Singleton said. "I have to sit down with my parents to figure it out. 

"I'm planning on committing sometime during the summer." 

Perhaps the determining factor in his decision will come down to relationships he has with each school.

"I'm really looking for a great relationship with the coaches and the players," said Singleton. "I obviously want a good football team and great academics too. That's what I'm looking for right now." 

 
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