Marlin Lane Commits to Tennessee: Vols Get in Fast Lane With 4-Star Running Back

Early Monday afternoon various sources, including ESPN's Jamie Newberg, reported that 4-star running back Marlin Lane from Daytona Beach, FL had verbally committed to the Tennessee Volunteers.

Lane confirmed those reports late Monday afternoon.

According to ESPN, Lane is ranked as the 11th best running back in the nation.

The 6'0" 205 pound star running back from Mainland High School was in Knoxville over the weekend for his official visit with the Vols. Apparently, Lane loved everything he saw, including the snow.

Lane, who is No. 134 on the ESPN150 of the nation's top high school prospects, had numerous offers and had previously been committed to Clemson. Among others, Lane's offers included Alabama, Auburn, California, Florida State, Michigan, USC and West Virginia.

The powerful back also has the speed to become an immediate impact player for the Vols, who were in serious need at the running back position.

Lane spent much of the early 2010 season rehabbing a torn ACL in his left knee from the previous season, but still managed 785 yards in only five games with Mainland.

"The Tennessee visit went great," Lane said. "The coaches and players are just terrific. Everyone there has such a great relationship with each other. I really like the campus and facilities. I also loved Coach Dooley. He has to be the coolest head coach I have ever met.  Their running backs coach is so funny and very easy to get along with. I feel real comfortable in Tennessee."

Lane becomes the 23rd Tennessee commitment to the recruiting class of 2011 and joins fellow Floridian Tom Smith as incoming running back prospects for the Volunteers.

Tennessee currently ranks 16th nationally in recruiting according to Rivals, with National Signing Day set for Wednesday, February 2.