A record-setting running back from Louisiana has committed to P.J. Fleck and Co. Xavier Ford announced his pledge of allegiance to the Gophers on Sunday. The three-star running back was named Mr. Football in Louisiana this fall after running for 3,461 yards and 52 touchdowns as a senior for Leesville. The 2025 recruit, who received an offer during his visit to Minnesota over the weekend, also had offers from the likes of Tulane and Houston. The 5-foot-9, 210 pounder joins a running back room currently highlighted by Gophers star back Darius Taylor. Ford’s addition helps restock the cupboard at the position, after Minnesota had a couple running back commits flip to other programs late in the cycle.Related Articles College Sports | Minnesota’s World Juniors will be ‘a celebration of everybody,’ says USA Hockey chief College Sports | College Football Playoff: Ohio State wide receivers ready for whatever Notre Dame sends their way College Sports | Underdog QBs Howard, Leonard will put friendship on hold in College Football title game College Sports | St. Thomas men’s hockey draws at Lake Superior State College Sports | Top-ranked Badgers women’s hockey blasts Tommies, sweeps series