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Top High School Running Back From Minnesota Commits to the Gophers

Minnesota out-recruited some of the top programs in the Midwest for the state's top running back.
Tony Liebert|
Taye Reich on an unofficial gameday visit to Minnesota.
Taye Reich on an unofficial gameday visit to Minnesota. | Picture via: @tayereich (X)

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Minnesota Golden Gophers

Moorhead High School running back Taye Reich announced his verbal commitment to the University of Minnesota on Tuesday night on local TV station KVRR. He chose the Gophers over notable top offers from North Dakota State, Kansas State and Colorado State, among others.

"I love Minnesota with all my heart. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else, and the culture that Minnesota has in their program is unmatched. I knew a very long time ago that's what I wanted to be, and Coach Fleck is a great guy. I love that guy. I love everybody on the staff," Reich told KVRR.

"I am never leaving, I am never going anywhere, Minnesota is where I want to be. Minnesota is where I want to be for as long as I can be. And as a player you are going to get the best out of me every single day."

Reich had a standout junior season for the Spuds with 225 carries for 1,416 rushing yards and 32 receptions for 336 receiving yards and 17 total touchdowns. Moorhead went 8-5 in 2025 before losing to Edina in the State Tournament. Reich has been a member of the varsity team since his freshman season, and he has nearly 2,500 rushing yards and more than 60 total touchdowns in his prep career already.

Standing at 5-foot-10, 190 pounds, Reich is now the second high school running back to commit to Minnesota since legendary running back Mohamed Ibrahim returned to the school as the football program's running back coach. Mississippi's Greg Hargrow announced his commitment last week.

Reich has been on the University of Minnesota's campus for three unofficial visits. His first stop was in 2024 during the Penn State game, and then again on March 25, 2025, which was when he also received his official scholarship offer. He returned to campus last fall on Oct. 11 for the Purdue game. He'll now likely return again for an official visit later this spring or early summer.

Current 2027 commits (4 players)

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Tony Liebert
TONY LIEBERT

Tony Liebert is particularly known for his coverage of the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers, though he also contributes to coverage of the Minnesota Vikings, Timberwolves and Twins. His writing style is noted for providing in-depth analysis and insights, making him a go-to source for fans looking for comprehensive coverage of Minnesota sports.

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