Demarkcus Bowman Former Five-Star Commits to UCF
The Basics
Before Demarkcus Bowman got to college, he was a highly touted and sought-after recruit in the class of 2020. Bowman was a five-star-rated prospect coming out of high school, according to 247 Composite Rankings. He was the third-ranked running back in the nation and the fourth-ranked player in the state of Florida, again via the 247 Composite Rankings.
The 5'10, 190-pound running back from Lakeland, Florida, had offers from the likes of Florida, Florida State, Alabama, Auburn, and Georgia. It's interesting to note that before his commitment to Clemson, he was previously heavily crystal balled to Florida.
Why he transferred
During his one year at Clemson, DeMarkcus Bowman only played in 2 games. He had nine rushing attempts totaling 32 yards, netting an average of 3.6 yards per carry. This lack of production and opportunity was very much so a result of a crowded running back room.
Travis Etienne, running back for the Jacksonville Jaguars, was the starter and workhorse for the Clemson Tigers during the 2020 season. His backup was Lyn-J Dixon, who saw his production go down from his previous two seasons in 2018 and 2019 at Clemson. So I believe it's safe to say they weren't enough carries to go around for Bowman.
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So the following year, Demarkcus decided to transfer to the University of Florida. When Bowman got to Florida, the situation was quite similar to Clemson. The Gators had a crowded running back room filled with talent at the position. In 2021, their starters were Dameon Pierce and Malik Davis. Both backs nearly eclipsed 100 carry attempts a piece, Pierce with exactly 100 shots and Davis missing the mark slightly with 92 of his own. Nay'Quan Wright was right behind the two backs, with 76 carrying attempts.
Bowman got 14 carries for 81 yards for the year, and he only appeared in 4 games. Due to the lack of opportunity, Bowman entered the transfer portal once more.
The Decision
On June 27th, Demarkcus Bowman decided to commit to UCF out of the transfer portal. I believe this will be the perfect fit for Bowman. Coach Gus Malzahn and company run a fluid spread option offense that will fit Bowman's playing style. He's a compact and strong running back that is a bonafide speedster.
Film Evaluation and how he fits
From observing his high school film, he's more than capable of getting to the second level and has enough speed burst to be a running back that can hit the home run any moment. The talent level is there. All he needs is an opportunity to showcase his ability.
He'll be joining Isaiah Bowser (RS SR) and Johnny Richardson (JR) in the running back room next season at UCF. I believe Bowman will get his opportunity to show what he can do finally. I project him to split backup RB carries this year behind Bowser, who's returning from injury this season. Bowman could become the starter by next year. If not, at least split carries at RB1 with Bowser. Look for Demarkcus Bowman to make noise and leave his mark at the Bounce House next season.
