Reading the tea leaves, Nick Saban is close to landing a big fish in the backfield during the Early Signing Period.

Intel gathered by 247Sports' team of recruiting experts suggests four-star Oklahoma commit Jase McClellan, a talented ballcarrier out of Aledo, Texas, will flip to Alabama this week, giving the Crimson Tide and elite-level running back to pair with current verbals Kyle Edwards and Roydell Williams.

McClellan has been committed to the Sooners since July of 2017. However, the 247Sports Crystal Ball shifted in Alabama's direction on Tuesday on the eve of signing day with notable predictions from OUInsider analyst Brandon Drumm and Horns247 insider Mike Roach.

According to VIP notes from OUInsider's Collin Kennedy, Saban and the Alabama coaching staff have been making a strong push for the talented back in recent weeks. Intel from Brandon Drumm of OUInsider suggest McClellan's commitment to the Sooners looks to be shaky at best currently.

BamaOnline publisher Tim Watts also expects Alabama to flip the four-star ballcarrier. Read Watts' thoughts on the race to the finish, here.

McClellan, at 5-10.5 and 200 pounds, is rated as the No. 43 prospect nationally and eight-best at his position, per the 247Sports Composite, with offers from several major programs including Texas. Alabama's current 2020 class ranks No. 2 nationally behind Clemson with 25 commits.

247Sports Midlands Region recruiting analyst Gabe Brooks compares McClellan to former San Diego State star Rashaad Penny and says he's a "high-volume back" with dangerous cutting ability.

"Owns close to prototypical measurables for a high-major running back prospect," Brooks writes in his 247Sports scouting report. "Adequate height, but built solidly top and bottom with just enough frame space to likely get to the 215- to 220-pound range. A bit frame-limited, but already in the 200-plus-pound range. Enormous production for Texas Class 5A D-II power. Light-footed in the hole with impressive initial burst. Unique in his ability as a smooth runner who also finishes runs with strength. Also possesses balance and strength to maximize yards after contact. Runs with good balance and leverage.

"Will enter college with a lot of mileage on the tires. Tests well (4.57 40 verified), but can improve top-end play speed. Occasionally tracked down on longer runs. Capable pass-catcher, but has not been asked to catch the ball out of the backfield much. Five fumbles during sophomore and junior seasons. Reliable go-to back with three-down ability who could star at the Power 5 level and develop into an early-round NFL Draft prospect."