Nebraska Recruiting: Huskers Win Commitment of Athlete Darien Chase

Great news from the land of overpriced espresso!

I had to stand in line for over an hour once to get a mocha from the Original Starbucks, because my daughter was visiting. It was burnt. At least I never have to do it ever again. But, burning isn’t as bad when it’s a wide receiver burning a defensive back, now, is it?

Darien Chase, talented athlete from Vancouver, WA has committed to the Cornhuskers! Most recruitiniks had Darien staying on the west coast, as so many do. His top listed schools were Boise State, Washington, and Oregon. There was just one hiccup: these schools wanted him to play defensive back. Nebraska offered him as a wide receiver. His desire to play offense, along with an amazing official visit for the Minnesota game, made the offer from the Big Red too big to pass up.

A four star recruit, Darien is the third highest rated prospect in Washington, and the 21st athlete overall. His commitment moves the Huskers to 24th, fourth in the B1G, just in front of Michigan State and Purdue. The 2019 class is projected to take 28+ recruits, and with those kind of numbers, a final ranking of about 18-20th is probable.

Watching Darien’s film, it makes complete sense why Nebraska offered him as a wide receiver. First of all, he’s got great hands. He goes after the ball and never gives up on a play. Second, he runs great routes, and knows how to get open if the play breaks down. Third, he has great lateral quickness, which he uses to break tackles and make yards after the catch. Fourth, he is a powerful blocker. He came back and absolutely obliterated some linebackers on plays where the quarterback scrambled. Quincy Enunwa has always set the standard for possession receivers in my mind, and Darien Chase looks set to continue this style of play. However, he is not a burner. He uses his lateral motion and football smarts to make plays, he doesn’t outrace defensive backs. No jet sweeps or 9 routes down the sideline for this guy, he will be used to pick apart defenses on crossing routes and curls. He is smart to take an offer to be a wide receiver rather than a cornerback.

Welcome to the Husker family, Darien! GBR!