Vanderbilt lands Florida RB Chase Gillespie

Clark Lea is putting together his first full class as the head coach at Vanderbilt, and he is off to a strong start. He is now up to 19 commitments after adding three-star running back Chase Gillespie out of Tallahassee (Fla.) Godby.

The 5-foot-9, 180-pound senior was offered by the Commodores Tuesday and it did not take him long to make his decision.

“I went up to Vanderbilt for a camp, earned an offer, and then committed two days later,” Gillespie said. “I actually committed to coach Lea, coach Norv (running backs coach Norval McKenzie), and the rest of the staff Thursday, and they were all excited to have me.”

What put Vanderbilt on top?

Vanderbilt beat Kansas and Tulane for Gillespie and coach Norv played a big role in that.

“I really liked how he coached me in camp, and I think he has what it takes to get my game to the next level,” Gillespie said. “I also love how the coaches made me feel at home. The coaching staff at Vanderbilt is great.”

More than football

Everyone knows Vanderbilt is one of the academic institutions in the country, so when players go there, they go for a combination of academics and athletics.

Gillespie knows what the school in Nashville has to offer off the field.

“The education they offer was big, and I know it could help me,” Gillespie said. “Vanderbilt has one of the best academic programs in the world.”

Looking ahead

Gillespie had some nice options, and he was giving all schools a look, but when Vanderbilt offered, he knew it was too good to turn down.

Yes, Vanderbilt offers a great education and he connected with the coaches, but playing in the SEC meant a lot, too.

“I dreamed of playing SEC ball, so I am very excited about this opportunity,” Gillespie said. “Now I get to play for a great school and a great coach who is creating a hard-working program.”