AJC > Sports > Highschools > Blog > Archives > 2008 > February > 05 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USDon’t overlook underrated recruits
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This week, the AJC’s Todd Holcomb offers another extra special Extra Point in advance of national signing day, Feb. 6.
I’m no recruiting guru, but I do watch a lot of high school football, and every year there are players who look much better on the field to me than they do at Rivals.com.
The best linebacker I ever saw in high school was Jon Abbate of Harrison, now on an NFL roster. But in-state schools ignored him, and he went to Wake Forest and became the best defensive player in the ACC. Other players in that mold are Eric Norwood and Kenny McKinley, now all-SEC players at South Carolina, and T.J. Yates, North Carolina’s starting quarterback.
Those players are from Cobb County, where I’ve seen the most games. But they are players just like them throughout the state. With the help of some of my colleagues on our high school sports staff, here are just a handful to get you started.
• Garrett Embry, Roswell — Best instincts and body control of any wide receiver I saw last season. And he’s 6-3, 210 pounds, going to Oregon, but somehow he’s not rated among Georgia’s best five at his position.
• Bernard Smith, Mays — Marist’s Alan Chadwick and Northview’s Jim Showfety (formerly at Chamblee) say Smith, a defensive end, might be the best defensive player they’ve seen in 20 years. But he’s only a three-star recruit who didn’t get SEC offers. He’s headed to West Virginia.
• Walter Lenard, Landmark Christian — He’s a 6-2, 205-pound quarterback who has played football for only two years. Our Derrick Mahone calls Lenard “a steal” for Furman.
• Charles “Chip” Reeves, Stone Mountain — One of my favorite quotes from 2007 was the assessment of Stone Mountain’s coach when asked to compare Reeves to Cedar Grove’s four-star receiver Josh Jarboe: “We played against them last year. Chip guarded Jarboe. Jarboe caught one pass. Chip caught 10. In a foot race, it ain’t even close.” It should be noted that Stone Mountain’s coach is Reeves’ father, Charles Sr. And Reeves Jr. and Jarboe are close friends, so no offense intended. Reeves, a three-star, is headed to Troy but is never mentioned among Georgia’s top receivers.
• Eric Eberhardt, North Gwinnett — The classic example of a great high school player who lacks the size (6-foot-1) to get major D-1 looks as a lineman. Coach Bob Sphire calls Eberhardt the most productive defensive player he has ever coached. Eberhardt led the Class AAAAA runner-up in tackles and sacks. He’s headed to Wofford.
Kick off the debate: Who are the players statewide this year who are better than their recruiting rankings? Let us know.
Permalink | Comments (37) | Post your comment | Categories: Extra Point
Comments
By GA Buckeye
February 5, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this
I saw Bernard Smith play this year and simply stated, “the man was a beast” and this was against a great Tucker team. I believe West Virginia will be happy with Bernard for the next 4 or 5 years. Reeves was a big-time player, as well. I look for them both to represent Georgia high school football well at the next level.
By baloney
February 5, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this
Reeves will prove once again that Fulmer knows talent. Remember that he favored Peyton over Brandon Stewart, Casey Clausen over AJ Suggs, Jamal Lewis over Jasper Sanks. Once AJ left, remember he was beat out at Tech by Reggie Ball.
By Shawn Buchanan
February 5, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this
What about Marquez Ivory and Tijuan Green from Northside???
By Right
February 5, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this
Reeves is overrated! Smith is the real deal. And I though Reeves was going to Troy and Smith was going to Western Kentucky.
By Veteran Fan
February 5, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this
Andy Miller WR Kell High School! 6’1 185 with good speed(4.6), very physical and extremely soft hands and routes! Described by his coach as the best blocker on the team. Played QB and switched this season to WR so very much overlooked. Dominated corners and caught three passes for almost 100 yards in last game comeback in final six minutes against Lassiter scoring 20 points to overcome 18 point deficit. Rumor is he is committing to a New York school.
By by choice
February 5, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this
Mike Powell and Terrence Leffall two outstanding linebackers that helped a Chamblee team get to the playoffs with great defensive plays. They both will be solid at the college level.
By Todd Holcomb
February 5, 2008 2:13 PM | Link to this
Reeves picked Troy over Tennessee. Bernard Smith originally committed to Western Carolina, then switched to West Virginia. …
As for Ivory & Green, those are great picks. I was sticking to metro guys, but any suggestions around the state are welcome. Ivory is going to Jacksonville State, and Green is headed to Northwestern and will be Northside’s only D-1 signee, if not mistaken. Ivory and Green should be upgraded for their consistent ability to play big in the big game.
By ND Fan
February 5, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this
Chase Thomas was WAY underrated.
By PackBacker
February 5, 2008 3:09 PM | Link to this
Because he’s only played the position 1 full season, Douglas German of Whitefield is off the radar. Some mid-size schools are missing out on a 6’4” receiver who can scoot. 58 catches, almost 1000 yds, all-state selection. Hopefully somebody offers soon though.
By jerome
February 5, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this
how was chase thomas underrated? Wasn’t he all under armour all american and super 11 pick?
By Mitchell
February 5, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this
Marcus Cothran (6-3, 235) DL from Marietta is a beast. He will be a LB at the next level. He tore my team up.
By Bohgey
February 5, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this
Once again a homer Todd, but what about Darriet Perry for Lowndes? Greg Reid is on the boards for next year, but Perry holds the school rushing title. Last look, Zooker was giving him a scholorship offer, we will know in Valdosta tomorrow.
By Derrick Mahone
February 5, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this
Two players that I was real impressed with was Andre Hicks of Lovett. The only thing that kept him from going major Div. I is his size. Also, Tiunte Little of Carver-Atlanta is also an athlete. During the summer he was offered by Marshall, but is going to Savannah State.
By TOM WILLIS
February 5, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Mark Ingram: “Alabama is on the way to championships” Mark Ingram could’ve taken the easy way. He could’ve avoided a lot pressure by staying in his home state. He could’ve followed in the footsteps of his father and his grandfather, both of whom played at Michigan State. Instead, Ingram wanted to be his own man. So he chose Alabama.
By TOM WILLIS
February 5, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Mark Ingram: “Alabama is on the way to championships” Mark Ingram could’ve taken the easy way. He could’ve avoided a lot pressure by staying in his home state. He could’ve followed in the footsteps of his father and his grandfather, both of whom played at Michigan State. Instead, Ingram wanted to be his own man. So he chose Alabama.
By TOM WILLIS
February 5, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this
Mark Ingram: “Alabama is on the way to championships” Mark Ingram could’ve taken the easy way. He could’ve avoided a lot pressure by staying in his home state. He could’ve followed in the footsteps of his father and his grandfather, both of whom played at Michigan State. Instead, Ingram wanted to be his own man. So he chose Alabama.
By Todd Holcomb
February 5, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this
Once again a homer Todd, but what about Darriet Perry for Lowndes?
I wonder if Perry is the only freshman ever to start at running back for a state champion in the highest class? Guess he didn’t have the size or speed to get big offers, but I’m definitely curious to see how he does at the next level. …
As for Marcus Cothran, is he a senior? I haven’t heard that he is signing Wednesday.
And I’d have to agree that Chase Thomas is not overrated. He made our Super 11 team. He’s one of those you could tell as a sophomore was going to be outstanding, though I wasn’t ready to put him at Stanford at that point. But he probably had close to 40 sacks in his career.
By Dawg fan 84
February 5, 2008 4:12 PM | Link to this
How did Calvin Middleton not get a D-1 scholarship? This kid is a monster RB from North Cobb. I thought he had a really good senior year. In 2006 he out-rushed Johnathon Dwyer from Kell. Any word on him?
By Steve Spiegel
February 5, 2008 4:22 PM | Link to this
Derrick…I agree 100% about Walter Lenard. One of the best HS backs I have seen in person, and that covers a lot of players, (as I know it does w/you, as well). I have covered HS football,(radio and cable), for over 20 years…and have had the privilege of sharing the booth and having Derrick on the air several times, (Tara, 12 Oaks, etc.) He knows his stuff, and is dead on correct about Furman “stealing” Lenard. P.S. -The blog says he is a QB. Typo, maybe?
By Bohgey
February 5, 2008 4:24 PM | Link to this
Todd, just checked Scout.com and Darriet Perry is listed as having offers from Central Michigan, Florida International, Illinois, Middle Tenn. and Troy. Memphis, and Louisville showed interest but did not offer. What would you choose? I say go with Zook at Illinois, the starting back there is forgoing his senior year for $$$. Your thought?
By Butta
February 5, 2008 4:31 PM | Link to this
I don’t know how you can leave off Alex Napper From Norcross. He wasn’t as hyped as Brice and Bolton, but he made more or just as many big plays as they did. Kent State acknowledged that when they offered him a full scholarship. He will be signing tomorrow.
By Todd Holcomb
February 5, 2008 4:41 PM | Link to this
Walter Lenard is a RB. My mistake. I’ve not seen him play, but trust Derrick’s judgment! …
Calvin Middleton of North Cobb is going to Jacksonville State. Maybe it’s speed with him. He’s big enough for a LB and tough enough for a RB. I’ve seen him play quite a bit. He’s a four-year starter, too. …
Re: Darriet Perry. This article from a week ago says he is committed to FIU:
http://www.miamiherald.com/sports/colleges/fiu/story/399121.html
The question for Darriet is whether it was him or the system. But I don’t think you can start for Lowndes as a 9th grader and not be pretty good.
By Dawg fan 84
February 5, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this
How do you think Matt Roark’s career will go at Kentucky? Will he play QB or end up at WR? He is an excellent athlete and once he puts more meat on his bones, he should be a stud. I hope Kentucky implements some of the spread offense in for him.
By afanofthegame
February 5, 2008 6:07 PM | Link to this
A Vetern Fan.
Andrew Miller?? What game were you watching. I know Nick Hicks has been the Q.B at Kell for 2 years and was the back up for 2 years before that. I was at the same game and Marlon Anthony (Jr) caught 3 T.D. passes and Brian Randolph (Fr) caught the game winning T.D. Vs Lassiter from Hicks. Miller dropped the ball more times then you can count. What school up north is interested? Who will he sign with tomorrow. I want to follow this one.
By OY
February 5, 2008 7:45 PM | Link to this
James Searcy. Derrick Brisbane.
James Searcy number 63 on scout full ride Troy
Derrick Brisbane full ride Northeastern…
By Veteran Fan
February 6, 2008 12:42 AM | Link to this
Miller backed up Hicks junior year after coming close to beating him out in the spring and caught 17 passes for 200 yards this year after switching to wide. Only two drops on the season and named Cobb Touchdown Club offensive player of the week against Northview. Did not catch a touchdown in Lassiter game but caught three for 100 yards including two deep balls that got the offense moving and a hook and ladder play on final drive with a 15 yard pitch to Randolph coming around the end that got Kell across midfield from their own 17. He was especially good on screens with his quick feet and acceleration. Just ask Brandon Traywick who he ran over on a screen in the Sprayberry game. New York school and others want him to play basketball too as he is a very good 2 or 3 guard and great passer, defender, and clutch scorer.
By NTH Trojans
February 6, 2008 7:21 AM | Link to this
Three players from North Hall, Hunter Wolf, Bobby Epps, and Fabian Jackson. Wolf has exceptional field vision and makes cuts that causes broken ankles. I have been watching him for 2 years and I haven’t seen anyone get a full on clean hit on him yet. Bobby Epps is a FB with the rare combination of speed and power. He is an excellent blocker, has exceptional hands, and if he gets into the secondary, he’s gone. Fabian is a FS with a nose for the ball, who is also very good in coverage and is valuable in run support.
By Todd Holcomb
February 6, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this
How do you think Matt Roark’s career will go at Kentucky? Will he play QB or end up at WR?
Very hard to predict how a QB will do switching to WR. Kenny McKinley didn’t just fine, but Roark is a different kind of athlete. But at 6-6 and with those running skills, Roark certainly has the size/speed requirements to be a top-flight WR.
By Big Man
February 6, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this
Gideon Scott Mt Zion High. 6’3 290 and tough. A lot of teams slipped on this recruit. His coaches should have used him on defense more.
By guymorgan
February 6, 2008 10:50 AM | Link to this
I am surprised that there is not more interest in the Coffee County Sr. QB- Burke Batten. He has been contacted by a half a dozen colleges. He would be an asset to any team, great numbers, great arm, great field general, size and speed. What’s up?
By Whostheman
February 6, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this
Taylor Bradberry from Winder Barrow 6’3 190 4.6 40 76 catches in 10 games. Led Gwinnett area in receptions and yards. Overlooked by everyone
By Catamountfan
February 8, 2008 11:46 PM | Link to this
Harrison Scott, QB Dalton High School. Three year starter with a 28-7 record. 6’2” 195 runs a 4.7, excellent option QB. Compiled 5,700 yards rushing and passing combined as well as 59 touchdowns. Great student as well. Should have been picked up by a mid major but for whatever reason was over looked. Made the GACA All-State team.
By slalom1
February 11, 2008 7:27 PM | Link to this
To: TODD HOLCOMB, Glad to be back. Good topic. I agree that the “star” ratings” at Rivals and Scout do not represent the BIG picture. As an example, for the past 3 years the SEC has had a first team “All SEC linebacker” who was overlooked by most every major university. I am referring to Sam Olajabutu in 2005 and 2006, and Wesley Woodyard in 2006 and 2007. (Of course both played at LaGrange). What Rivals and Scout frequently miss are the intangibles. “Can this kid be “coached up”? “Is he a team player”? Very few high school players can make an impact at a major university unless they can develope as a player, and student. It is the BIG picture. What do you think?
By slalom1
February 11, 2008 7:41 PM | Link to this
While I am on a rant, do NOT forget LB, Qua Huzzie(LaGrange). Having seen so many great LB’s from LG, Huzzie may be THE best. The 2008 Grangers are loaded with talent, but I have never seen one with more potential than Huzzie. Speaking of high school recruits, has anyone noticed how many Carver-Columbus players landed scholarships? Unless I read something wrong, the number is 15! This raises a topic that warrents discussion. The topic is transfers. I have dogged Gwinnett County for their recruiting practices, but Muscogee County is equally as guilty. (Columbus, Ga.) How does a school with an enrollment of Approx. 1200 have a roster as big and fast as most major colleges? Did ANYONE take a look at the size of their players? Geez! I did not see any AAAAA schools in 2007 who compared in size and speed. 15 scholarships!!!! Unheard of. Slalom1 is back.
By slalom1
February 12, 2008 6:46 PM | Link to this
To: TODD HOLCOMB, Todd, I believe it is time for a debate over transfers in GHS football.There are counties such as Gwinnett, Muscogee, and others, who have no ground rules for transfers. Did anyone see the list of scholarships awarded to Carver-Columbus? Unless I read the numbers wrong, it was 15! This coming from a school with an enrollment of less than 1300! Why? Because the Muscogee County school system has no policy regarding transfers. Carver-Columbus, along with Shaw, are the benefactors of basically having an “all-star” team composed of the best athletes in all of Muscogee County, which has 8 public high schools. I would enjoy hearing input on this topic. Is the policy wrong or right? As Todd pointed out during the fall, region 2AAA is a tough region, but it also has some pretty sorry teams as well. Why? All of the above. The best athletes gravitate to Shaw and Carver. I believe that the same is true in Gwinett County, and possibly others.
By slalom1
February 12, 2008 6:48 PM | Link to this
To: NTH Trojans: What are things looking like for 2008?
By jam
February 15, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this
Marquez and Tijuan are the best players that northside has had in a long time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!