4-star linebacker Zakoby McClain commits to Auburn

Auburn's momentum on the recruiting trail continued this week in the aftermath of the Tigers' SEC West-clinching win against Alabama in the Iron Bowl.

The Tigers picked up their fourth commitment in a week, and third in the 2018 class since Thanksgiving, on Tuesday when four-star linebacker Zakoby McClain committed to Auburn.

McClain chose Auburn over LSU and West Virginia. He was on campus last weekend and in attendance for Auburn's 26-14 win against then-No. 1 Alabama in the Iron Bowl.

McClain is 18th member of Auburn's 2018 class, which entered the day ranked 11th in the nation according to the 247Sports Composite team rankings. The 6-foot, 205-pounder out of Valdosta, Ga., is rated as the No. 16 outside linebacker in the nation, according to the 247Sports Composite, and the No. 26 player in Georgia.

McClain is the potentially the fourth linebacker commit in this class, joining four-star prospects Michael Harris and Richard Jibunor, who may project as an edge-rusher, as well as three-star prospect Josh Marsh, who will likely project as a safety in college.

Jibunor was one of two players to commit to Auburn last Thursday, joining four-star receiver Seth Williams. The Tigers also picked up a commitment from 2020 defensive lineman Andy Boykin last week, which was the Tigers' first in that class.

Auburn defensive coordinator Kevin Steele said Sunday that "there's no doubt" that Auburn's impressive season, with a 10-2 overall record and SEC West division title, helps with recruiting.

"When you're successful and win on the grass, it affects recruiting," Steele said. "It's just the way it works. Everybody wants the new shiny car. Nobody wants the used car."

Tom Green is an Auburn beat reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Tomas_Verde.

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