40 Year Decision: Cameron Roberson Commits to Notre Dame

Cameron Roberson's Irish roots go back many decades to when his grandfather left the university as one of the first African-American graduates.

After witnessing a shutout of Nevada on Saturday afternoon, Roberson made up his mind on where he wanted to spend the next four years of his life.

The 6'1, 225 pound running back made it public on Monday night that he had committed to Charlie Weis and the Fighting Irish.

The high school senior from Newbury Park, Calif., ran for 1,452 yards and 18 touchdowns in his junior season. He received an offer last year from the Irish, but was unsure on how he would be used as a bigger back.

After seeing the likes of Jonas Gray, Robert Hughes, and James Aldridge, Roberson got a better idea of how often bigger backs are utilized in the program.

Another deciding factor in his decision was life after football. He told IrishSportsDaily.com,

“I talked to a bunch of the players, and they told me pretty much after they graduate, all the connections you have, and the degree you get from there, and that kind of got it going. Then I thought about it a little more, and I kind of got that thought of going there. Then I think the campus tour finalized it. Pretty much visiting all the facilities and looking at some of the history that’s been at that school.”

Roberson is ranked as the No. 29 prospect in California on Rivals.com. He is also listed as a four star prospect on the site. He chose Notre Dame over offers from BYU, Utah, Washington, Arizona, Northwestern, and many others.

Just by watching his highlight tape, it is easy to pick out what he does best. He has a great blend of size and quickness, much like that of Gray.

Roberson joins the 2010 class as the 15th commitment and the first tailback.