James Pace III commits to Auburn, citing program comfort and Maryland influence
Edge rusher James Pace III announced his commitment to Auburn on Thursday, citing the program’s stability and the influence of former Maryland coach Mike Locksley, who now serves as Auburn’s offensive coordinator. The decision, reported by 247Sports, marks a pivotal addition to the Tigers’ 2024 recruiting class.
Why Pace chose Auburn over other offers
Pace, a four-star prospect from Georgia, emphasized the comfort he felt within Auburn’s program during a recruitment process that included offers from Alabama, Florida, and Clemson. “Auburn’s culture and the relationships I built with the staff were key factors,” Pace said in a statement. Locksley, who previously led Maryland’s football team, played a role in the decision, according to sources familiar with the situation.
How Locksley’s background shaped the recruitment
Locksley’s tenure at Maryland, where he led the Terrapins to a 23-21 record from 2018 to 2021, is seen as a bridge between Pace’s previous interest in the Big Ten and his eventual choice of Auburn. “Mike’s experience in developing defensive linemen and his connection to the Southeast made the transition smoother,” said a 247Sports analyst. Auburn’s defensive coordinator, Kevin Steele, has also been instrumental in recruiting Pace, according to a team spokesperson.
What’s next for Auburn’s 2024 class
Auburn’s coaching staff has prioritized strengthening its defensive line, with Pace joining three other edge rushers in the class. The Tigers currently rank 12th in the latest 247Sports Composite rankings, but the addition of Pace could boost their prospects. “This commitment solidifies our focus on building a deep, versatile defense,” said head coach Bryan Harsin in a press release.
Why this matters for college football recruiting
Pace’s decision reflects broader trends in college football, where recruits increasingly prioritize program stability and coaching continuity. His move to Auburn also highlights the influence of former coaches in shaping recruitment narratives. Last season, Auburn’s defensive line allowed 4.2 yards per carry, the 10th-worst in the SEC, according to ESPN’s advanced metrics. Adding Pace, who recorded 12.5 sacks in his senior season, could address that weakness.
Key takeaways
- James Pace III committed to Auburn, citing program comfort and coach Mike Locksley’s influence.
- Pace, a four-star edge rusher, chose Auburn over Alabama, Florida, and Clemson.
- Locksley’s Maryland background and Auburn’s defensive needs played a role in the decision.
- Auburn’s 2024 class now includes four edge rushers, aiming to improve its 10th-ranked SEC defense.
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