Tony James Commits to Oregon: Ducks Land 4-Star RB

The Oregon Ducks pulled in what might be the next member of a long line of explosive running backs to come through Eugene.

Derek Tyson of ESPN tweeted Sunday that 247Sports composite 4-star all-purpose back Tony James has committed to Oregon:

The Gainesville, Fla. native chose the Ducks over his hometown Florida Gators, as well as Auburn, Kentucky, Ohio State, Nebraska and many others.

Gators reporter Julie Quittner also confirmed that she spoke to James about his commitment.

The choice certainly makes sense for Tyson, considering UO ranks No. 1 in the nation in rushing offense after the first five weeks of the season.

James was on hand in Eugune for Oregon's 55-16 win over California this past weekend. Though it rained heavily during the game, UO's 264 rushing yards apparently provided some sunshine for the Gainesville native.

James ranks as the No. 7 all-purpose back in the 247Sports composite ratings.

Oregon now has nine commitments for the 2014 class, three of which are now composite 4-star prospects. James joins composite 4-star Royce Freeman as the second running back in UO's 2014 class.

Freeman comes in as the No. 8 traditional running back in the composite rankings. 

In addition to the presence of Freeman, Oregon is already young at the running back position with sophomore Byron Marshall and freshman Thomas Tyner in the fold. 

However, with four rushers with 174 yards or more through the first five weeks, the Ducks have shown that they have no problem cycling through a number of ball carriers.