LAKELAND, Fla - Lakeland running back Demarkcus Bowman has video game speed.

So it was only appropriate that he used the video game, NCAA ’14, to announce his commitment to Clemson.

“I have played from ‘Road to Glory’ where you play from high school and get your stars and your offers, so I thought it was pretty cool to put that in there because it has been a really big part of my life.”

Demarkcus’ recruitment played out like a video game. His real life road to glory included becoming the top ranked-recruit in the state, as well as one of the best running backs in the nation.

At Lakeland, being the best is expected. This is especially true for Dreadnaught running backs.

“You play a big role,” Demarkcus said. “You have a target on your back. And you just have to step up to the plate, basically.”

Part of Demarkcus’ success at Lakeland has been due to his study of rushing greats who have passed through Bryant Stadium – including Chris Rainey, Steward Butler, and current Pitt starter AJ Davis. Demarkcus also studies current NFL running backs.

“Todd Gurley, Le’Veon Bell, I look at them a lot,” said Demarkcus. “I look at Saquon (Barkley).”

These players all went to big-time colleges; which is why Demarkcus didn’t hesitate to jump on with defending national champion, Clemson. Head Coach Dabo Swinney has coveted Bay Area players over the last decade.

“This is an area where we have had a lot of success,” said Swinney, who has landed 8 Bay Area commitments since 2008. “You look at Deion Cain (Tampa Bay Tech), Ray-Ray McCloud (Sickles), and all those guys. So it is exciting to get all of them.”

“Getting to know the staff and the staff is full of good people,” said Demarkcus. “Everybody has experience; they’ve all been there eight to ten years. Clemson has a good program and not a lot of people get a chance to go to Clemson.”

Demarkcus’ head coach Bill Castle knows a thing or two about great football players. Coach Castle calls Demarkcus one of the best running backs to come through Lakeland. But even coach knows the top players can always improve.

“I was really proud that he decided to announce, no matter where he went,” said Castle, who has won seven FHSAA state titles at Lakeland. “Now, he can just focus on his season and just working hard and getting better.”

Demarkcus hopes that his summer gains will lead Lakeland to another state championship.

“That would mean a lot. Back-to-back,” said Demarkcus with a smile.  

It would also be another unforgettable moment as Demarkcus continues his run on the road to glory.