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Georgia Predicted to Lose Nation's No. 3 RB To ACC Team

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nate Lunak | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 3:15 PM ET

Under head coach Kirby Smart, the Georgia Bulldogs have become one of the biggest powerhouses in college football. They can now bring in talented players.

That trend has continued into this offseason, as they've established an impressive 2026 recruiting class with 19 commitments, ranking No. 6 in the nation, according to On3.

They're still looking to add as well, and one name that's caught their attention is running back Derrek Cooper, who they brought in for an official visit on June 13.

Unfortunately for Georgia, though, on Tuesday, On3's Stephen Wagner logged an expert prediction for the running back to pass on the Bulldogs and instead land in the ACC with the Miami Hurricanes

It would certainly be a nice addition for Miami because last season for Chaminade-Madonna High School, he was impressive, rushing the ball 124 times for 905 yards and 13 touchdowns while also having nine receptions, 156 yards and one touchdown.

Also standing at 6-foot-0.5 and 210 pounds, On3 Industry Rankings places him as a four-star recruit, the No. 3 running back, the No. 3 player in Florida and the No. 34 player in the nation.

If Miami does end up landing his talents, he would be just the latest in their already impressive recruiting class, which ranks No. 8 in the nation with 16 total commitments.

However, even if Georgia does lose this recruiting battle, the On3 recruiting prediction machine does give them the second-best chance (23.6%) to land five-star running back Savion Hiter, with the Ohio State Buckeyes slightly in front (27%)

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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