4-star RB Amari Latimer commits to Wisconsin: ‘I knew it was where I needed to be’ 

Wisconsin was one of 56 schools to offer Tyrone (Ga.) Sandy Creek four-star running back Amari Latimer. The Badgers have been recruiting the 6-foot-0, 200-pound tailback for two years, and that effort from the Big Ten program “meant a lot” to him in his eventual decision. 

Latimer was in Madison for an official visit on May 30 and it came down to Wisconsin and Georgia Tech. In the end, head coach Luke Fickell and his staff won out for the talented prospect and Latimer has committed to the Badgers. 

“I had an idea that I would choose Wisconsin when I was up there in the spring,” Latimer told On3. “I knew I liked it a lot. On the official visit is when I made the decision. On that visit, I knew Wisconsin was where I needed to be.” 

When coaches could begin reaching out to recruits directly last June, Wisconsin contacted Latimer at “another level” and “have been consistent” in communicating with him since then. So far, he has visited the Badgers’ campus four times. 

“I like the relationships they built with me,” Latimer said. “I really like coach Fickell and where the program is headed. The offensive coordinator, coach Jeff Grimes, is great and he is bringing in a new offense. The atmosphere and community also stand out there. I love how everyone works together and I love the environment around the people and the program.” 

The people at Wisconsin stood out to Latimer

Latimer’s older brother – Geimere Latimer – joined Wisconsin as a transfer cornerback this offseason after playing at Jacksonville State. The four-star was already high on the Badgers, but having the chance to play alongside his brother was “a factor” in his decision. 

Another was the environment around the program. 

“A big family is how I would describe it,” Latimer said. “Everyone is playing for one another. They are locked in, working to win and pushing each other.” 

In Madison, Latimer will learn under running backs coach Devon Spalding. He is looking forward to doing so in the coming years. 

“I love the way he coaches and how he talks to his players,” Latimer said. “He develops players and the players love him. The running back room there is tight too. There is no jealousy and they are all close with each other.”