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Michigan State signs 2025 three-star Frankfort (Ill.) Lincoln-Way East RB Zion Gist

On3 imageby: Jason Killop12/04/24KillopOn3
Michigan State commit Zion Gist
Michigan State commit Zion Gist

Michigan State signed 2025 three-star Frankfort (Ill.) Lincoln-Way East running back Zion Gist on Wednesday.

Gist (6-0, 205) committed to Michigan State on Nov. 25. Spartan running backs coach Keith Bhonapha brought in Gist one day before former Michigan State running back commit Jace Clairizo flipped to Alabama.

Michigan State wanted to add both running backs to its 2025 class, but Clarizio chose to flip to the Crimson Tide, leaving Gist as the only running back in the class at the time. Clarizio ended up signing with the Spartans on Wednesday, however. The pair will now combine to make up a two-man running back class.

Gist is the No. 1,960 prospect, No. 139 running back and No. 53 player from Illinois the in the 2025 class, per the On3 Industry Rankings.

Gist had been committed to Western Michigan since June. He received an offer from Michigan State during the week of Nov. 17 and scheduled an official visit shortly thereafter. He decommitted from the Broncos following his official visit to Michigan State, which took place on Nov. 24 and 25.

Gist held additional offers from Kent State, Marshall and Northern Iowa, among others.

Scouting summary

Gist is a tough runner with deceptive speed. Lincoln-Way East, a powerhouse high school program in Illinois, used Gist heavily in the pass game this past fall. Gist is a sure-handed pass catcher who has received high praise for his pass protection.

Lincoln-Way East finished 12-1 this past fall. The Griffins won the Southwest Valley Conference with a 4-0 conference record. Lincoln-Way East lost to eventual state champion Wilmette (Ill.) Loyola Academy in the Illinois High School Class BA semifinals on Nov. 23.

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