On Wednesday I got to talk to Syracuse running back commit Jordan Fredericks.
Commiting all the way back in April, Fredericks was one of the first to sign onto the Syracuse 2015 recruiting class. He talked about what made him choose the Orange.
‚ÄúI went up there [to Syracuse] for the Junior Day, and I saw the whole team sit down; they all looked like a family,” Fredericks said. “The coaches make it look like anything is possible. They tried their hardest as a unit, and played every game like it’s their last.‚Äù
Fredericks also said that location played a role in his decision making.
‚ÄúIt’s a huge factor because my mother’s a football fan,” he said. “She’s never missed any of mine and my other four brothers’ games. She leaves work just to see us play. She’s the number one fan for us, so being close to home plays a big part.‚Äù
Coach Scott Shafer and the Orange saw enough potential in Fredericks to give him a scholarship in his junior year, and this fall the now-senior proved his worth. Fredericks ran for 2,158 yards and 35 touchdowns in his senior year at Lawrence High School, including 225 yards and 4 touchdowns in Lawrence’s Long Island Championship win. He was named to the all-state team and in December won the 2014 Gatorade New York State Player of the Year award.
“It means a lot. Hopefully I become better in the sport and am able to do the same thing at the college level.” Fredericks said.
With the departures of running backs Prince-Tyson Gulley and Adonis Ameen-Moore, there will be plenty of opportunities for Fredericks to establish himself next season.
‚ÄúThey haven’t told me a lot, just to learn the plays quick enough and I’ll be able to be in the rotation with the other running backs.” Fredericks said. “For me, if I become stronger and faster I’ll have the opportunity to play.‚Äù
Stay up-to-date with Fredericks and all of Syracuse’s football recruits as National Signing Day approaches by following @OrangeFizz on Twitter and liking us on Facebook.
Posted:  Nathan Dickinson
