Ray Lewis III committed to the Miami Hurricanes Tuesday, almost 19 years after his father suited up for the program.

The 5-foot-9, 190-pound junior from Lake Mary Prep (Lake Mary, Fla.) confirmed the commitment with his coach, Buck Gurley.

Ray Lewis III, the fifth member of the 2013 Hurricanes recruiting class, could play running back or defensive back for Miami. AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack

"Ray told me that he felt like Miami was the best fit for him and if they offered him he was going to commit," Gurley said. "Once they made the offer he was set."

Lewis plays both sides of the ball at Lake Mary Prep, much like his famous father did at Kathleen (Lakeland, Fla.). Lewis rushed for 2,321 yards and 29 touchdowns in 2011 while racking up 91 tackles and a sack.

In following his father's footsteps to Miami, Lewis will face high expectations but it's something Gurley believes Lewis is prepared for.

"I've had this discussion with Ray several times, as have his mother and father, so he understands the situation," Gurley said. "He's aware that there will be a lot of expectations, unfair expectations, put on top of him but he's a confident young man.

"In another interview you'll remember he said he was going to be better than his father, so you know he's confident if he's willing to say that in an interview."

Lewis becomes the fifth member of Miami's 2013 recruiting class. He is being recruited as an overall athlete and could play running back or defensive back.

"I would say he's probably a better fit as a defensive back and I believe he would make a fantastic free safety," Gurley said. "But he can also be a very good running back behind a strong offensive line."