Another day, another potential weapon added to Rich Rodriguez’s stable of running backs.
Monday, former Illinois back Dami Ayoola announced that he has committed to continuing his FBS career in 2015 with the Wildcats after spending 2014 in the JUCO ranks. A day later, former UNLV and Northwestern running back Adonis Smith confirmed to the Arizona Daily Star that he will play for the Wildcats as well.
Unlike Ayoola, however, Smith is expected to be granted immediate eligibility and play in 2014.
“I just felt the offense is a great offense,” Smith told the Daily Star. “I think Coach Rodriguez is a great coach. I’ve been watching him for years. It all just felt like a great fit.”
Smith was a three-star member of Northwestern’s 2010 recruiting class, totaling 462 rushing yards (4.3 ypc), nine receptions and three rushing TD’s his first two seasons in Evanston. He abruptly transferred from the Wildcats in February of 2012 and ultimately landed at UNLV less than a month later.
After sitting out the 2012 season to satisfy NCAA transfer rules, he rushed for 70 yards and a pair of touchdowns for the Rebels in 2013. Why he left UNLV and transferred to a third school is unclear.